You may have heard this before. More than 50% of car accidents happen within just five miles of your home. If you have a minor fender bender, you may need paintless dent repair. But what to do following? After investing in paintless dent repair (PDR) to restore any dented areas on your car or truck, it’s important to maintain that repaired area. Here are six key ways to protect your investment and keep your car looking its best.
1. Regular Gentle Washing
The newly restored area requires special attention during washing. Use a pH-neutral car shampoo and a microfiber mitt to clean the repaired section gently. Avoid automatic car washes for at least two weeks after the repair because their harsh brushes and high-pressure water jets can potentially compromise the restored metal’s integrity. Manual hand washing gives you better control and allows you to be more attentive to the repaired areas.
2. Paint Protection
While PDR doesn’t involve repainting, protecting the existing paint around the repaired area is important. Apply a high-quality car wax or sealant every three months to create a protective barrier against environmental elements. This preserves the paint’s shine and also helps prevent oxidation and UV damage, which could make future dents more noticeable. We encourage this type of care, so you don’t have to take your vehicle back in!
3. Mindful Parking Habits
After investing in PDR, making smart parking choices is important. Choose spots away from high-traffic areas and shopping cart returns. When possible, park in covered areas to protect your vehicle from hail, falling branches, and bird droppings. If street parking is unavoidable, try to find spots away from construction zones or areas where debris might fall.
4. Temperature Management
Extreme temperature fluctuations can affect the metal’s stability in the repaired area. Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a garage or use a car cover to maintain consistent temperature conditions. This is particularly important during the first month after the repair because the metal is still settling into its restored position.
5. Regular Inspections
Make it a habit to inspect the repaired area weekly for the first month, then monthly afterward. Look for any signs of stress in the metal, such as slight waviness or distortion. Early detection of potential issues allows for quick intervention before they become major problems. Pay special attention after extreme weather events or if your vehicle experiences any minor impacts.
6. Professional Maintenance Schedule
Maintain a regular service schedule with your trusted mechanic or PDR specialist. They can assess the repaired area during routine maintenance visits and catch any potential issues early. Many PDR professionals offer follow-up inspections as part of their service package. Take advantage of these opportunities to make sure the repair continues to hold up well over time.
While PDR is known for its durability, appropriate care in the weeks and months following the repair can make a significant difference in long-term results. If you need paintless dent repair services for your car or truck, please get in touch with us today.