4 Quick Tips for Preserving Your Car’s Paint Job

Keen’s Body Shop • April 3, 2024
A car is parked on the side of the road at sunset

Your car's paint job isn't just about aesthetics—it also serves as a protective layer that shields your vehicle from rust and other environmental damage. Preserving your paint job maintains your car's appearance and contributes to its longevity and resale value. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert auto painting and auto paint repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here’s a look at four tips for keeping your car’s paint job looking beautiful.


Regular Washing and Waxing

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to preserve your car's paint job is through regular washing and waxing. Washing your car removes dirt, dust, and other contaminants that can degrade the paint. Use a pH-balanced car wash soap and a soft microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the paint. Generally, it’s best to wash your car every other week. And you should apply a high-quality wax at least every few months, which will help to repel water and contaminants.


Park in the Shade

Regular exposure to sunlight and UV rays can cause your car's paint to eventually fade. Whenever possible, park your car in the shade to minimize sun exposure. If shade isn't available, consider using a car cover to protect your vehicle's paint from the sun's harmful rays. Parking in a covered parking structure can also offer protection against harmful substances that can damage your paint such as bird droppings and tree sap.


Be Proactive about Avoiding Scratches and Chips

Scratches and chips in your car's paint detract from its appearance while also making the underlying metal vulnerable to rust and corrosion. To avoid scratches, be mindful of where you park and avoid brushing against objects that could damage your car's paint, such as bushes and tree branches. 


Get Auto Paint Repair/Re-Touches as Needed

If your paint job does have blemished areas, you could benefit from professional paint retouching. At Keen’s Body Shop, our technicians provide top-quality paint retouching in Columbus, OH.


Auto Painting & Paint Repair in Columbus, OH

For  auto painting in Columbus, Dayton, and Lancaster, OH, contact Keen’s Body Shop at 1-888-681-5336. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

4 Problems that Frame Damage Can Cause If It's Not Promptly Repaired

By Keen’s Body Shop • August 5, 2026
A vehicle's frame is its structural foundation, providing strength, stability, and support for the engine, suspension, and body panels. Even relatively minor collisions can bend or weaken the frame, and while the damage may not always be visible, it can have a significant impact on your vehicle's safety and performance. Ignoring frame damage can allow small problems to become much more serious over time. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert automotive frame repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are four reasons why it's important to have frame damage professionally repaired as soon as possible. Compromised Safety in Future Accidents Your vehicle's frame is designed to absorb and distribute crash forces during a collision. When the frame is bent or weakened, it may no longer protect occupants as intended. A compromised frame can affect the performance of crumple zones and other safety systems, potentially increasing the risk of injury in another accident. Prompt frame repair helps restore your vehicle's structural integrity and improves protection. Uneven Tire Wear and Alignment Problems Frame damage often affects your vehicle's alignment. Even a slight bend can throw the suspension and steering geometry out of specification, causing the vehicle to pull to one side. Misalignment also leads to uneven tire wear, reducing tire life. Repairing the frame helps restore proper alignment and promotes more even tire wear. Poor Handling and Reduced Stability A damaged frame can negatively impact how your vehicle handles on the road. You may notice wandering, vibrations, difficulty steering, or reduced stability during cornering and braking. These handling issues can become especially dangerous during emergency maneuvers or poor weather conditions. Restoring the frame to factory specifications helps ensure predictable handling and a smoother, safer driving experience. Reduced Resale Value and Higher Repair Costs Frame damage that goes unrepaired can significantly reduce your vehicle's resale value. Potential buyers are often hesitant to purchase vehicles with unresolved structural damage. In addition, continuing to drive with a damaged frame can place extra stress on the suspension and steering, potentially leading to additional repairs. Addressing the problem early is typically far less expensive than waiting until secondary damage develops. Automotive Frame Repair in Columbus, OH For expert collision repair in Columbus, Dayton, and Lancaster, OH , contact Keen’s Body Shop at  1-888-681-5336  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Important Actions You Should Take Following an Auto Accident

By Keen’s Body Shop • July 3, 2026
In the moments that follow a collision, knowing what steps to take can help protect your safety, your legal rights, and your vehicle. Acting quickly and carefully can also make the insurance and repair process much smoother. Here’s a look at five important actions to take after a car accident. Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries The first priority after any accident is safety. Check yourself, passengers, and others involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately. If possible and safe, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents and turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers. Call Law Enforcement It’s important to contact the police after an accident, even if it appears minor. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be helpful for insurance claims and any disputes. Officers can also help document the scene and gather necessary information. Exchange Information With the Other Driver Be sure to exchange essential details with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, insurance information, and license plate numbers. Avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be interpreted as admitting responsibility. Stick to factual information only. Document the Accident Scene If it’s safe to do so, take photos and videos of the vehicles, road conditions, damage, skid marks, and surrounding area. This documentation can be helpful when filing an insurance claim and can support your version of events if questions arise later. Choose a Trusted Collision Repair Shop After notifying your insurance company, it is important to select a reputable collision repair shop to assess and repair your vehicle. A trusted shop will provide a thorough inspection, accurate estimate, and high-quality repairs that restore both safety and appearance. Choosing experienced professionals helps ensure that hidden damage is properly addressed and your vehicle is returned to safe operating condition. Collision Repair in Columbus, OH For expert collision repair in Columbus, Dayton, and Lancaster , contact Keen’s Body Shop at  1-888-681-5336  . Our team of experienced technicians can properly restore your vehicle. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment !
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