Specialized Techniques Required
Tesla, Ford F-150, luxury vehicles with aluminum panels require specialized PDR training. We're equipped to handle both aluminum and steel.
Memory characteristics: Steel has "memory" and wants to return to its original shape. Aluminum doesn't. Once bent, it stays bent unless properly worked.
Work hardening: Aluminum work-hardens faster than steel, meaning you have fewer attempts to reshape it before the metal becomes brittle.
Tool pressure: Aluminum requires lighter, more precise tool pressure. Too much force can crack or damage the panel permanently.
Heating considerations: Aluminum's lower melting point means heat must be applied more carefully than with steel panels.
Yes - but it requires specialized training and tools
We carefully inspect the aluminum panel to determine if PDR is viable. Not all aluminum dents can be fixed with PDR - we'll be honest upfront.
Specialized tools with rounded, polished tips that won't mar aluminum. We use lighter pressure and more precise movements than with steel.
Aluminum work-hardens quickly, so we have fewer attempts. Each movement is deliberate and precise. We work slower than with steel but with better accuracy.
Aluminum shows imperfections more readily than steel. We check from multiple angles and lighting conditions to ensure a perfect result.
Tesla vehicles use a mix of aluminum and steel. The Model 3 and Model Y use more steel than the Model S and X, but all have significant aluminum components.
Common aluminum panels on Tesla:
Check your owner's manual or VIN decoder. Common aluminum vehicles: 2015+ Ford F-150, all Tesla models, newer Audi/Jaguar/Land Rover, 2017+ Ford Super Duty. If unsure, text us your year/make/model and we'll let you know.
Slightly. Aluminum requires more time, specialized tools, and advanced training. Typically 20-30% more than steel PDR, but still 50-70% less than body shop repainting.
Yes! Hail damage is one of the most common aluminum PDR scenarios. We've repaired hundreds of hail-damaged aluminum F-150s. Each dent requires careful technique, but they're definitely repairable.
No. PDR doesn't involve removing panels or disconnecting sensors. We access the dent from behind without disturbing any electronic components. Your autopilot sensors, cameras, and parking sensors remain untouched.
Slightly longer than steel - typically 50% more time. A small dent that takes 30 minutes on steel might take 45 minutes on aluminum. We work methodically because aluminum doesn't forgive mistakes.
We're 100% mobile! We come to you with all specialized aluminum PDR tools. Whether you're in Meridian, Boise, Eagle, Nampa, Star, Kuna, or Caldwell - we bring the shop to your location.
Text us a photo of your Tesla, F-150, Audi, or other aluminum-body vehicle. We'll assess if PDR will work and give you an honest quote.
Mobile service across the Treasure Valley