How to Get a Dent Out of a Car: When to Get Pro Help

Got a dent you’re eager to fix? Knowing how to get a dent out of a car might seem straightforward, and for smaller dings, it can be. With simple tools, you can try  taking out a dent yourself. However, for deeper or more complex damage, it’s often wiser to leave it to the professionals offering expert dent repair services. This guide will help you understand how to repair minor dents in a car at home and when it’s best to trust the experts to keep your car looking its best.

Common car dent hotspots

When it comes to car dents, some spots on your vehicle tend to take more hits than others. Car doors are prime targets in crowded car parks, where tight spaces and careless door openings can leave their mark. Bumpers often bear the brunt too, particularly during low-speed bumps or parking on narrow streets. Hoods and roofs are also common areas for damage, especially with falling debris, hail or the unpredictable British weather. Fenders can easily pick up scrapes from minor sideswipes, and even the boot isn’t safe, often getting dented by heavy items being loaded or the occasional rear-end bump.

Knowing these high-risk areas means you can identify damage early and help protect your car’s condition.

How to get small dents out of a car at home

While not every dent is suitable for DIY repair, several methods can help address minor dents effectively. Below, you’ll find a range of techniques to try removing a small ding from a car, including simple tools you might already have at home.

How to pull a dent from a car

Knowing how to pull a dent from a car can save time and money when fixing small dents. This approach is particularly effective for shallow dents where the metal hasn’t been stretched or the paintwork isn’t compromised. With the right tools and steps, you can attempt this repair at home.

Start by assessing the size and depth of the dent. For smaller, manageable dents, a suction cup or plunger can be a great tool to have on hand. These tools are designed to grip the dented area with suction, allowing you to pull the metal back into its original shape.

• Clean the dent and the surrounding area so the suction cup can seal properly.

• Dampen the suction cup or the surface of the dent for better adherence.

• Press the suction cup or plunger firmly over the centre of the dent securely.

• Slowly pull back on the handle of the suction cup while maintaining even pressure. Avoid yanking, as this could damage the surrounding paintwork.

• After pulling, inspect the dent. If it’s not fully restored, you may need to repeat the process a few times.

Other DIY dent repair methods

Here are a few additional techniques to help you tackle minor dents at home with everyday tools:

Hairdryer

A hairdryer can also be used to remove dents from your car. Heat makes the metal surface flexible, making it easier for the dent to be pushed out.

Start by warming the dent with a hairdryer on its highest setting for around two to three minutes. Once the area is warm, gently push the dent from behind if accessible, using a soft cloth to protect your hands.

For dents that cannot be accessed from the backside, follow the heating with a cooling spray or compressed air to help the metal contract, potentially allowing the dent to pop out.

Repair kit

For a more precise solution, investment in a DIY dent repair kit can be worthwhile. These kits come with tools specifically designed to target various types of dents. Most kits include suction cups, glue sticks and pull tabs, along with detailed instructions. By applying controlled force, you can gently pull dents back into place.

This method requires careful handling to avoid paint damage and works well for a wide range of dent shapes and sizes.

How to fix a dent in a car professionally

When it comes to taking out a dent, professional services offer a reliable and effective solution. Whether it’s a minor dent or something more substantial, choosing the right technique can restore your car’s appearance while ensuring long-lasting results. Here are two popular professional methods:

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)

Paintless Dent Repair, or PDR, is an efficient and cost-effective way to fix minor dents where the paintwork remains undamaged.

Using specialised tools, skilled technicians carefully massage the dented area from behind, restoring the metal to its original shape without needing any sanding or repainting. This method is ideal for shallow dents caused by hailstones, door dings or other small impacts.

PDR is a quicker process than traditional repairs and maintains the car’s original paint finish, which can help preserve its resale value. For UK car owners looking for an environmentally friendly repair option, PDR is a great choice as it avoids the use of fillers and additional paint.

Traditional dent repair

For deeper dents or those that involve paintwork damage, traditional dent repair offers a trusted solution. This process includes sanding the damaged area, applying a filler for uneven surfaces, and carefully repainting the area to match the car’s original colour. It’s particularly effective for larger dents caused by collisions, falling objects, or severe impacts. Although more time-intensive than PDR, this method ensures a seamless finish, leaving your car looking as good as new.

Why choose professional repairs?

While DIY dent repair kits might seem like a quick fix, professional dent repair services offer unmatched precision and expertise, making them the smart choice for maintaining your vehicle’s appearance and value.

At HiQ, our skilled technicians use advanced tools and trusted methods, like Small Area Repair Techniques (SMART), to thoroughly assess and repair damage without the need for a full respray. These services not only save you time and effort but also come with a quality guarantee, ensuring peace of mind and long-term results.

Whether it’s a minor ding or a more serious dent, you can trust us to return your car to its original condition. For added convenience, repairs can be carried out at some of our HiQ centres.

Please note that currently not all of our centres offer dent repair so it's best to check/book your dent repair appointment online before visiting. More information about each centre can be found on our HiQ Centers pages