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Given we have an understanding of the key components of the vehicle parts, we are in a position to use the Dent Matrix. The Dent Matrix forms a vital role in the quotation process. All that is required is to note down the number of dents, the type of dents (depth and size) discussed in the previous sections for each panel and the Dent Matrix can be applied.
Below is a Matrix Sheet available to illustrate the various designs. The pricing are usually quite similar given that it fits the guidelines of the insurance companies.
Activity: Categorising Dents
A good activity is to practice identifying dents on the each panel, one at a time counting systematically each dent. Conveniently, each panel is on a separate row. Given you have gained some skills in identification, use these skills to estimate number of dents and gain an average of the dent depth and size according to light, medium or heavy whatever dominates.
This sheet is used to note a cross or tick in each appropriate section – Figure 4 is the actual pricing used for calculations.
You will see on each matrix a specific range of pricing for numbers of dents. Also included are variable for size: – namely for light, medium or large dents. A little confusion seems to be the use of terminology with Figure 3 and 4 indicating light, medium and heavy for the size of hailstones. Nevertheless, you can note a difference in pricing with the latter sheets charging a higher price for dents repaired.
In each case, other charges are included to account for some difficulties or time consuming tasks. Such penalty pricing include Remove and Replace process involving vans and 4WD wagons, sun roofs, prestige vehicles, aluminium (particularly Subarus) and now even digital screens. These penalty pricing are due to increased timing compared to basic models. For instance, the increased size of 4WD and vans attract a higher Remove and Replace pricing $350 as compared to the standard $250 for standard vehicles.
Problem
As an exercise on how to read these dent matrix sheets, lets consider for example a 4WD vehicle with 70 large dents on its roof.
Solution
Using the matrix, for 70 large dents we would need to move across to 51-75 Half on the roof. (“Half” in the US stands for Half Dollar sized hail Size)
Reading the matrix from the Severe 51-75 column and sub-column Large, move down to intersect the Large Roof to get a price of $725.
As you can see, ample information is accessible at your finger tips in the Dent Matrix sheets. This also keeps pricing across the industry consistent!
You should choose what works best for your situation. You may also develop your own with experience in the industry.
