Paintless Dent Repair Guide 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is a 'crown' in PDR terminology?
- The raised high spot pushed up around a dent (Correct answer)
- A type of glue tab
- A polishing pad
- The center of the steering wheel
Correct answer: The raised high spot pushed up around a dent
A crown is the raised area created when a dent is pushed too far or surrounds the low spot.
Question 2: Why is gentle, gradual pressure preferred over one forceful push in PDR?
- It saves glue
- It prevents stretching the metal and creating high spots (Correct answer)
- It heats the panel faster
- It removes the need for a light
Correct answer: It prevents stretching the metal and creating high spots
Slow, controlled pushes avoid overworking and stretching the metal.
Question 3: Which factor most increases the difficulty of a PDR repair?
- A dent in the open center of a panel
- A dent located on a body line or edge (Correct answer)
- A large flat hood
- Bright shop lighting
Correct answer: A dent located on a body line or edge
Dents on sharp body lines or panel edges are harder to access and restore correctly.
Question 4: What is 'tapping down' used for in PDR?
- Lowering high spots back to level (Correct answer)
- Applying primer
- Cleaning glue residue
- Tightening bolts
Correct answer: Lowering high spots back to level
A tap-down tool and blending hammer gently knock high spots back flush with the surface.
Question 5: Why might a technician warm a panel slightly before glue pulling in cold weather?
- To melt the paint
- To improve glue adhesion and metal flexibility (Correct answer)
- To remove rust
- To dry the interior
Correct answer: To improve glue adhesion and metal flexibility
Mild warmth helps glue bond and makes cold metal more workable.
Question 6: What does 'reading a dent' mean for a PDR technician?
- Estimating its repair cost only
- Interpreting its depth, shape, and pressure points before working (Correct answer)
- Measuring paint thickness
- Checking the VIN
Correct answer: Interpreting its depth, shape, and pressure points before working
Reading a dent means analyzing its contour and tension to plan precise push points.
Question 7: Which is a common reason PDR is preferred by insurance companies for hail claims?
- It is slower and more expensive
- It is faster and cheaper while keeping factory paint (Correct answer)
- It requires full panel replacement
- It voids the warranty
Correct answer: It is faster and cheaper while keeping factory paint
PDR typically costs less and is quicker than conventional repair while preserving the finish.
