Minor bodywork damage can have a huge impact on the value of any vehicle. It needs to be put right prior to sale, but traditional body repair methods are not always the most suitable or economic solution.

In recent years huge strides have been made in the field of paintless dent removal (PDR) as new equipment has become available and new techniques developed. One of Ireland’s most respected exponents of the art of PDR is Michael O’Connor, who is now offering his highly skilled service to motor trade businesses right across Ireland through his company Dent Reflect. 

Michael says, "PDR has the potential to offer dealers huge savings on body repair as well as being a clean and convenient repair solution that maintains the vehicle paint warranty.”

PDR is a highly skilful and patient process where dents are removed without the need for filling and painting. The damage is gently massaged out from behind the panel, without removal, using specialist tools and a keen eye. Michael has great expertise in this process and also, where access cannot be gained to push the dent, he can utilise a unique pulling system to bring the panel back to its original state, something which is relatively rare in Ireland.

Michael says the process offer many advantages. "Firstly it fully maintains the original factory finish and so protects the paint warranty. It is also quick and convenient because the job can be done on site. Most importantly it is very cost effective and can mean a big saving. For example using a filler and paint method would usually mean painting the whole side of a silver car, but with PDR this can be eliminated.”

Michael also points out that P.D.R. is best way to protect a vehicle’s value after damage. He comments, "With an electronic paint gauge, a trained vehicle inspector can always spot a refinished area. Any previous paintwork will diminish the vehicle value, but PDR is generally undetectable.”

Michael says PDR is suitable for repair of both steel and aluminium panels and, once the paint surface is intact, can tackle dents, creases, door dings and hail damage. On more major impacts it can also be used as a technique called "push-to-paint” whereby the need for filling is minimised.

Both new and used car dealers are now making use of Michael’s expert service. He says, "New cars are often damaged in the showroom and in transit and used cars very often need to be tidied up before sale. I offer a nationwide service and will visit businesses for a full day to provide an economical and convenient on-site solution to their bodywork issues.”

For more information call Michael on 087 605 1220 or email dentreflect@dr.com