Assessment
The starting evaluation of damage, material, finish, access and the intended outcome. A photograph alone may not reveal the full repair scope.
TECHNICAL REFERENCE
Better questions.
Better decisions.
A concise PDR reference built around the judgement behind repair. Search the topics, then explore the learning series for more context.
THE REFERENCE DESK
Explore the fundamentals.
This is introductory reference material, not a repair procedure or a vehicle-specific technical instruction.
18 topics
Aluminium
A vehicle panel material with different forming and repair behaviour from steel. Suitability depends on the specific panel, damage and repair conditions.
Body line
A deliberate styling feature in the panel. Damage crossing a line can concentrate deformation and complicate cosmetic correction.
Crown
An area raised around or alongside a dent. Understanding surrounding displacement matters when assessing the main low area.
Reflection reading
Using the distortion of a reflected pattern to judge panel shape. It is a learned inspection skill, not a direct numerical depth measurement.
Glue pulling
External pulling using an adhered tab. Paint history and adhesion risk influence suitability, especially on refinished or weakened coatings.
Access
The safe route and working room available for a repair tool. Reinforcements, trim, wiring and glazing can restrict a method.
High spot
A locally raised area of metal. It may be impact-related or created during repair and is assessed through its reflection.
Steel grades
Vehicle steels vary in strength and intended function. Appearance alone does not establish grade or permission to apply heat or force.
Paint history
Knowledge of previous refinishing, coating damage or prior repairs. This can change the risks of pushing, pulling and finishing.
Improvement repair
A defined reduction in visible damage where full cosmetic correction is not the agreed or realistic outcome.
Defleet
The preparation and disposal or return stage when a vehicle leaves a fleet. PDR may form one part of its cosmetic preparation.
Repair scope
The specific damage and outcome authorised for work. Further defects or changed conditions should trigger a separate discussion.
Lateral tension
A technique involving force applied across a panel. Anchor geometry, load direction and material behaviour require specialist understanding.
Induction
Equipment that produces localised heating through electromagnetic effects on suitable material. Vehicle-specific restrictions and coating risks remain critical.
EV awareness
A switched-off vehicle must not be assumed safe for access or dismantling. Work around high-voltage systems requires appropriate competence and procedures.
Key control
Control of keys and vehicle access to help manage unintended operation. The exact process depends on the vehicle and working environment.
Quality review
The comparison of completed work with the agreed cosmetic scope, lighting and acceptance criteria.
No matching topics. Try “paint”, “access” or “panel”.
TAKE IT FURTHER
From terminology
to understanding.
Reflection reading, assessment, access and safety are connected skills. The learning programme brings those ideas together.
LET’S SEE THE BIGGER PICTURE