How do you properly repair a minor dent using PDR techniques?

Repairing a minor dent using Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) techniques involves carefully manipulating the metal from behind the panel to restore its original shape without removing any paint. The correct approach is to apply pressure from behind the panel, which allows the metal to pop back into place. This method preserves the factory finish and avoids the need for additional bodywork such as sanding or painting, making it a quick and efficient repair method.

Using heat to soften the metal, while it can be a component of PDR in certain scenarios, is not the primary technique for minor dents. Instead, it is more commonly employed for certain types of wrinkles or complex curves. The use of body filler is not applicable to PDR since it involves repairs that do require paint or finishing materials, which contradicts the very essence of paintless repair. On the other hand, using a vacuum tool to pull the dent is more suitable for specific types of concave or large dents, not for every minor dent scenario.

In summary, applying pressure from behind the panel is the foundational and preferred method in PDR for minor dent repairs, as it effectively restores the metal without compromising the original paint.