This guide explains exactly how long different types of dent repairs take, what can make a job quicker or slower, and why dent removal in Barking at Infiniti Motor Group is one of the most convenient options for local drivers.
What Affects How Long a Dent Repair Takes?
Not every dent is the same. A few key things will decide how long your repair takes.
Size of the dent. Small door dings and minor dents take far less time to fix than large dents caused by a collision. A tiny ding from a car park bump might be done in under an hour, while a bigger dent across a whole panel could take several hours or even a full day.
Where the dent is on the car. Dents on flat, open panels like a door or a bonnet are usually easier to access and quicker to fix. Dents near edges, creases, or hard-to-reach spots take longer because the technician has less room to work.
Whether the paint is damaged. This is one of the biggest factors. If the paint is still in good condition over the dent, a technique called paintless dent removal (PDR) can often be used. PDR is fast and does not require any repainting. If the paint has cracked, chipped, or flaked, the repair will take longer because the panel will need to be filled, primed, and resprayed.
The repair method needed. PDR is the quickest option. Traditional bodywork repair, which involves filling and painting, takes more time because the paint needs to cure before the car can be returned to you.
How Long Does Each Type of Dent Repair Take?
Here is a simple breakdown of typical repair times so you know what to expect.
| Type of Repair | Typical Time |
|---|---|
| Minor door ding (PDR, no paint damage) | 1 to 2 hours |
| Small dent (PDR, good paint condition) | 2 to 4 hours |
| Medium dent (PDR possible) | Half a day |
| Dent with paint damage (fill and respray) | 1 to 2 days |
| Large dent or multiple panels (bodywork repair) | 2 to 3 days |
These are general estimates. Your technician will give you a more accurate time once they have looked at your car in person.
What Is Paintless Dent Removal and Why Is It Faster?
Paintless dent removal is a method where a technician uses specialist tools to gently push or pull the dent back into shape from behind the panel. Because the paint is never broken, there is no need for filler, primer, or respray. The result looks as good as new and the process is much quicker.
PDR is suitable for many common types of dent, including door dings, hail damage, and minor parking bumps. It is not suitable for every dent, though. If the paint has been damaged or the dent is in a very sharp crease, traditional repair methods will be needed instead.
Not sure whether your car is a good candidate? A qualified technician can check the dent and advise you in just a few minutes.
Can Dents Be Fixed the Same Day?
Yes, in many cases. If your dent is small, the paint is undamaged, and PDR is suitable, your car could be ready the same day you bring it in. Some minor repairs are completed in just one or two hours.
For more complex repairs that involve paint work, you are more likely to be looking at one to two days. This is because paint needs time to dry and cure properly before the car can be finished and handed back to you.
At Infiniti Motor Group, the team will always tell you honestly how long your repair is likely to take before any work begins.
What About Insurance Repairs?
If your dent was caused by an accident repair situation, such as a collision with another vehicle, you may be going through your insurer. The repair time itself is no different, but there can sometimes be a short wait while the insurance paperwork is sorted out.
Infiniti Motor Group is fully insurance approved and deals directly with all major insurers on your behalf. This means you do not have to chase your insurer yourself, which saves time and stress. Courtesy cars are also available while your vehicle is being repaired, so you will not be left without transport.
Why Choose Infiniti Motor Group in Barking?
Infiniti Motor Group is based at Barking Industrial Park, which is easy to reach from across East London and Essex, including Ilford, Romford, Dagenham, Stratford, and beyond.
The team of skilled technicians is trained in both PDR and traditional bodywork repair, which means they can handle anything from a tiny door ding to more serious panel damage. All repairs are carried out using manufacturer-approved methods and high-quality materials.
Because the bodyshop is insurance approved, repairs come with full warranty coverage, and the entire claims process is handled on your behalf.
Vehicle body repair is a skilled trade that requires proper training and specialist tools. You can learn more about what the role involves on the National Careers Service vehicle body repairer profile, which gives a useful overview of the techniques and expertise required.
Summary
Most small dents can be fixed on the same day or within 24 hours. PDR is the fastest option and works well when the paint is still in good condition. Larger dents or those involving paint damage will take a little longer. The best way to find out exactly how long your repair will take is to book a free inspection with a trusted local bodyshop.
If you are based in East London or Essex and want a fast, reliable dent repair, get in touch with Infiniti Motor Group in Barking today.