PDR Vehicle Panel Metallurgy & Body Structure 3

Question 1

Which vehicle body area is most likely to use hot-stamped boron steel (HSBS), and why does this matter for PDR?

Accepted Answer

A-pillars, B-pillars, and rocker panels, because these are crash-critical structural members that cannot safely be PDR-repaired

Answer

Boron steel structural members like pillars and rockers are safety-critical; PDR or any repair that alters their geometry is prohibited because it compromises crash performance.

Question 2

The 'yield strength' of a metal panel is important for PDR technicians because it represents:

Accepted Answer

The stress level at which the metal transitions from elastic to permanent (plastic) deformation

Answer

Yield strength marks the boundary between reversible elastic deformation and permanent plastic deformation — PDR technicians work just above this threshold to reshape panels.

Question 3

A PDR technician is working a door skin and notices the metal feels increasingly stiff and resistant with each rod pass, even though the dent is not fully repaired. The most likely cause is:

Accepted Answer

Cumulative work hardening has reduced the metal's ductility with each deformation cycle

Answer

Repeated deformation cycles cause progressive work hardening, making the metal stiffer and more brittle — the technician should pause, potentially apply heat, and re-evaluate the approach.

Question 4

In multi-material vehicle construction, where aluminum and steel panels are joined on the same vehicle, a PDR technician must primarily be aware of:

Accepted Answer

Galvanic corrosion risk at the joint and different tool pressure requirements for each material

Answer

Aluminum and steel in direct contact create a galvanic cell; disturbing corrosion barriers during PDR can accelerate corrosion, and each material requires different pressure techniques.

Question 5

Which panel characteristic is described by the term 'memory' in PDR, and how does it vary by material?

Accepted Answer

The metal's tendency to return toward its original undamaged shape when worked — stronger in steel than aluminum

Answer

Metal 'memory' refers to the elasticity-driven tendency to return toward original shape; steel generally has more elastic memory than aluminum, aiding PDR but also requiring over-push compensation.

PDR - Paintless Dent Repair Technician Certification Practice Test

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PDR Vehicle Panel Metallurgy & Body Structure 3