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!

Why it’s Important to Repair Car Hail Damage ASAP

By Keen’s Body Shop • April 28, 2025
Hailstorms can leave your vehicle pockmarked with dents. While it might be tempting to delay repairs—especially if the damage seems cosmetic—waiting too long can lead to bigger problems. Taking quick action after a hailstorm protects your car’s appearance and helps prevent issues that can affect its long-term value. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert automotive hail damage repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are four important reasons to repair car hail damage as soon as possible. Minor Damage Can Get Worse Over Time What starts as a few small dents can become more serious if ignored. Exposure to the elements—especially moisture—can cause chipped paint to peel and eventually lead to rust forming beneath the surface. Once rust starts to spread, repairs become more expensive and time-consuming. Fixing hail damage promptly prevents these small issues from escalating into major bodywork problems. Unrepaired Damage Can Lower Your Car’s Value Whether you plan to sell or trade in your vehicle, visible hail damage will reduce its market value. Even minor cosmetic flaws can make a vehicle less appealing to buyers or dealers. Many people will assume a damaged car hasn't been well cared for and may offer less money or pass entirely. Repairing hail damage quickly helps preserve your vehicle’s resale value. Your Insurance May Have a Time Limit Auto insurance policies that cover hail damage commonly require claims to be filed within a specific timeframe. If you wait too long to report the damage or begin repairs, you may miss your window for coverage. Acting quickly ensures you stay within the terms of your insurance and get the financial help you're entitled to. Quick Repairs Prevent Further Inconvenience Once a vehicle is damaged, it becomes more vulnerable to other types of wear and tear. Water can seep into cracks, weather can worsen exposed areas, and dirt can accumulate in dents. Fixing the damage sooner rather than later avoids compounding issues and can save you time and hassle down the road. It also restores the appearance of your vehicle, helping you take pride in its condition again. Automotive Hail Damage Repair in Columbus, OH For auto body 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!

What can I do to help prevent my car from developing rust?

By Keen’s Body Shop • April 3, 2025
Rust is one of the biggest threats to a vehicle’s longevity. Once it starts, it can spread quickly, weakening the car’s structure and diminishing its value. Fortunately, with proper maintenance and proactive care, you can significantly reduce the risk of rust developing on your vehicle. At Keen’s Body Shop, we can expertly repair blemishes on your car’s body that could otherwise lead to rust. Here are four tips to keep your car rust-free. Wash and Wax Your Car Regularly Dirt and other debris can accelerate rust formation by trapping moisture against your car’s surface. Washing your vehicle regularly removes these harmful elements before they have a chance to cause damage. Pay extra attention to the undercarriage, wheel wells, and lower panels where grime tends to accumulate. Applying a high-quality wax after washing adds a protective layer that shields the paint from moisture, reducing the risk of rust. Fix Paint Chips and Scratches Immediately Even small paint chips and scratches can expose the metal underneath, making it vulnerable to rust. If left untreated, these minor blemishes can allow moisture and oxygen to corrode the metal surface, leading to rust spots. For scratches and other damaged areas, professional repair will provide proper protection. Keep Your Car Dry and Store It Properly Moisture is the primary cause of rust, so keeping your car dry is important. If possible, park in a garage or use a car cover to shield your vehicle from rain and snow. Avoid leaving your car parked on wet grass, which may contribute to rust formation on the undercarriage. Inspect Drainage Areas and Remove Debris Vehicles have drainage holes and channels designed to direct water away from critical areas. When these become clogged with debris, water can accumulate and lead to rust formation. Check areas like door drains and sunroof channels to ensure proper drainage. Keeping these areas clear will help prevent standing water and reduce the likelihood of rust developing. Automotive Rust Repair in Columbus, OH For auto body 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 make an appointment!
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