How Much Does Paintless Dent Repair Cost in Calgary? | 2026 PDR Pricing Guide

February 23, 2026

In the heart of Alberta’s hail belt, Calgary drivers are no strangers to the “ping-ping-ping” of ice hitting their hoods. When the clouds clear, the first thing every car owner asks is: How much does paintless dent repair (PDR) cost in Calgary?

Whether you’re dealing with a shopping cart mishap at Chinook Centre or a mid-August hailstorm, this guide breaks down real-world 2026 pricing and data for dent removal in the Calgary area.

2026 Price Guide: Calgary PDR Cost Estimates

Unlike traditional body shops that charge for paint, primer, and hours of sanding, PDR specialists in Calgary typically price by the size, depth, and number of dents.

Service Type	Estimated Cost (CAD)	Typical Turnaround
Small Door Ding (up to 1″)	$125 – $175	1 – 2 Hours
Medium Dent (Golf Ball size)	$200 – $350	2 – 4 Hours
Large Dent (4″ or larger)	$400 – $800+	Same Day
Crease or Body Line Damage	$250 – $600	4 – 6 Hours
Full Vehicle Hail Damage	$1,500 – $8,000+	1 – 3 Days

Local Insight: Most professional Calgary PDR shops have a shop minimum of $150. If you have two tiny dings, it’s often more cost-effective to have them both fixed at once rather than in separate visits.

Factors That Affect Your Calgary PDR Quote

Not all dents are created equal. When a technician looks at your vehicle in the SE industrial parks or a mobile tech meets you in the NW, they are evaluating three main factors:

1. Depth and Metal Stretch

A shallow, wide dent is much easier (and cheaper) to massage back into place than a “sharp” or deep dent. If the metal has been stretched beyond its elastic limit, the repair becomes more complex and can push the price toward the $400+ range.

2. Location & Accessibility

If a technician can easily reach the back of the panel (like on a hood or trunk), the cost stays low. However, if they have to remove interior headliners, door panels, or wheel well liners to gain access, expect to pay more for the additional labor time.

3. Aluminum vs. Steel Panels

Many newer trucks (like the Ford F-150) and luxury SUVs common in Calgary utilize aluminum panels. Aluminum is “stiffer” and has less “memory” than steel, requiring specialized tools. Repairs on aluminum panels typically carry a 25% to 50% surcharge.

The Big One: Calgary Hail Damage Costs

Calgary is the hail capital of Canada. For major storms, most drivers go through insurance.

Comprehensive Deductibles: Most Calgary drivers carry a $500 to $1,000 deductible.
Total Repair Value: A moderate hailstorm can easily cause $3,000 to $5,000 in damage.
The Insurance Advantage: Because PDR preserves the factory paint, it is the preferred method for insurance companies like Intact, AMA, and Aviva. It maintains your vehicle’s “original” status, which helps protect resale value in the Alberta used car market.

Why Choose PDR Over a Traditional Calgary Body Shop?

In Calgary, a traditional body shop repair for a single door ding often starts at $500 to $800 because they must paint the entire panel to ensure a color match.

Significant Savings: PDR is generally 50% to 75% cheaper than traditional bodywork.
Speed: While a body shop might keep your car for 3–5 days, a PDR tech can often finish the job while you grab lunch at Stephen Avenue.
Carfax Integrity: PDR is a non-invasive “invisible” repair, meaning no mismatched paint or body filler is reported on your vehicle history.

Get a Quote Today

While data gives you a ballpark, every dent is unique. Most Calgary PDR specialists offer free photo estimates via text or email.