When repairing dents on an aluminum panel, my first choice of repair method is the use of glue-on pull tabs. If this doesn’t work, I suggest using paintless dent repair (PDR) theory and methods. Apply low heat onto the repair area as recommended per the automaker’s allowable heat range standard. As you apply low heat to the repair area, along with the use of body picks and plastic-coated tips, push the dent out from the backside of the panel.While straightening, the goal is to leave as much of the topcoat intact, preventing any unwanted exposure or contamination to an aluminum panel.

If filler is needed to complete the repair, I recommend blocking down the topcoat no further than the epoxy primer. You can then use a two-part finishing filler designed to adhere over the top of an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) finish to complete the repair.