Paintless Dent Repair vs. Traditional Dent Repair

Tony Mers • March 9, 2022
Paintless Dent Repair vs. Traditional Dent Repair

Is your car sporting a fresh dent? You can either get a paintless or traditional dent repair to fix it. If you're not familiar with either and aren't sure which procedure is best for your vehicle, read our guide about the pros and cons of paintless dent repair vs. traditional dent repair.

What Is Paintless Dent Repair?

Let's begin with what paintless dent repair means. The "paintless" term comes from how professionals don't have to sand off the paint and reapply after fixing the dent.

How Is Paintless Dent Repair Done?

The process of a paintless dent repair requires special tools and training, so it should always be done by a professional. Essentially, the vehicle's metal is massaged back into its proper shape with the tools, so it's practically good as new. Paintless dent repair can be used for small and big dents but may not be suitable for sharper dents.

What is Traditional Dent Repair?

We know what paintless dent repair is, but what about traditional dent repair? The traditional, also known as conventional, dent repair system is a longer process than the paintless and is primarily used for sharper or deeper dent repairs.

A traditional dent repair generally requires sanding off the paint of the dent, banging the metal back into shape, and then filling the remaining spaces with putty. The putty then has to be sanded down, and then the dented area repainted, including primer, base coat, and final coat.

As you can see, a traditional dent repair is a much more extensive process as it involves removing and then reapplying your vehicle's paint, which is not necessary if you have a small car in need of dent repair.

Which Repair is Better for My Car's Dent?

Which dent repair system you should use will depend mainly on the size and shape of the dent for your car. Paintless repair can fix small and big dents alike, which is why most people choose the paintless route as it's faster and more affordable.

But, if you have a more obscure or sharp dent, you may have to go the traditional route to fix it properly.

That's everything you need to know about paintless dent repair and traditional dent repair. If you need a dent repair in Chicago , be sure to check out River North Collision Repair, where their professionals can do whatever kind of dent repair is required to get your car looking new again.

Inside an automotive workshop, a technician is using a drill to remove the lug nuts on the tire of a
By River North Collision Repair July 28, 2026
Broken axle symptoms can affect vehicle safety and performance. Identify four common warning signs and learn when professional axle repair becomes necessary.
A close-up of a black car's side mirror and tinted window with bright reflections against a dark bac
By River North Collision Repair July 10, 2026
Get a clear overview of car door damage repair costs, common pricing factors, and when repairs or replacement make the most sense for your vehicle.
Diminished Value Claims in Illinois: What You Should Know
By River North Collision Repair June 29, 2026
Illinois drivers should know how diminished-value claims work after a collision and what steps can help them recover the loss of their vehicle's value.
How To Match Auto Paint for a Seamless Finish
May 20, 2026
Learn how professional auto body technicians match auto paint. They blend color matching and finishing techniques for a seamless, factory-quality repair.
Repair Estimate Terms: What Does R&R and R&I Mean?
By River North Collision Repair May 8, 2026
Get a clear explanation of repair estimate terms like R&R and R&I. Learn how each impacts cost, repairs, and decisions for your vehicle after a collision.
Why Paintless Dent Repair Is More Eco-Friendly
By River North Collision Repair April 21, 2026
Learn why paintless dent repair offers an eco-friendly option for while fixing exterior vehicle damage. Chicago drivers save time, materials, and money.
Do Sensors and Cameras Complicate Bumper Repairs?
By River North Collision Repair April 16, 2026
Sensors and cameras can make bumper repairs more complex and costly. Learn what impacts repairs and how experts handle modern vehicle technology.
How Paint Technology Has Changed in the Last Decade
By River North Collision Repair March 30, 2026
Discover how automotive paint technology has evolved in the last decade, from waterborne coatings to stronger clear coats and faster repair processes.
How Chicago Streets Contribute to Auto Body Damage
By River North Collision Repair March 17, 2026
Chicago streets can cause dents, rust, and paint damage to your vehicle. Learn how local road conditions affect your car and when to seek professional repairs.
How Do Technicians Access Hard-To-Reach Car Dents?
By River North Collision Repair February 18, 2026
Learn how technicians access hard-to-reach car dents using precision tools and proven repair methods to restore your vehicle safely and accurately.