How Much Does Car Dent Repair Cost?

When it comes to fixing dents, a lot rides on factors like the damage’s severity, where it’s located, and where the repair gets done. For a tiny dent, expect to shell out between $50 and $125. But let’s be real—if it’s more than just a door ding, the costs can skyrocket.

What Makes Car Dent Repair So Pricey?

The Size of the Dent and the Repair Method

More damage means a heftier repair bill. Why? Bigger dents often knock out the option for Paintless Dent Removal (PDR).

PDR is a newer, wallet-friendly method that skips sanding, painting, and drying. It reshapes the metal back to its original form, making it quicker and cheaper. A small dent might cost about $50 to $125, but if it’s more like a DANG, then it’s time for some serious work. That means sanding, painting, and waiting for it to dry—so expect to pay a skilled pro for that.

For a major dent, costs can easily hit $2,000 or more. If PDR isn’t an option and painting isn’t worth it, a full panel replacement might be necessary. Bumpers, being mostly plastic, might cost between $300 and $700, but once you add painting, it could push close to $1,000 for just one bumper.

The Number of Dents and Their Location

The number and placement of dents matter too. More dents mean more panels to fix, which multiplies the effort and cost. Take hail damage, for example—those ice balls can total a car, with repairs often running around $2,500.

Fixing a dent on a body line is trickier than on a flat surface like a door. If the damage is too severe, replacing the panel might be the only way to get it looking right again. Also, some cars use special paints and materials that can drive up costs.

Where the Work Gets Done

Location matters too. A pro with years of experience will charge more than someone just starting out. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, low-quality work often shows its ugly face later. Signs of poor bodywork include:

• Sagging or running paint
• Color mismatches
• Blotching
• Overspray
• Inconsistent textures (like orange peel)

For instance, painting the hood of a sedan might run about $300-$500 for cheap work, while quality jobs can hit $500-$1,000. The difference? Better materials, more coats, and attention to detail.

If the dent is on a newer car, a high-end shop might be worth it to get it back to 100%. But if the car’s seen better days, a budget option could be the way to go.

Breaking Down the Costs

Quick searches can turn up ding repairs for $50-$75, but bigger dents—like those from a pole or another car—can range from $200 to $300, depending on the damage.

A good way to estimate costs is to add $50-$120 for every inch of dent. So, a 2- to 3-inch dent that doesn’t need painting might run $100-$240. For dents needing PDR and paint, expect an extra $200-$500. If the damage is extensive, replacing the entire panel might be the best bet, which can get pricey fast.