5 Common Causes of Car Scratches

Keen’s Body Shop • September 26, 2024
A black car is driving down a road on a cloudy day.

Car scratches are a frustrating and common issue for vehicle owners. Whether it's a minor scuff or a deep scratch, they can affect both the appearance and value of your car. If your car gets scratched, it’s important to get the repairs done ASAP. Otherwise, rust could soon take hold. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert car scratch repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are five common ways that cars get scratched.


Parking Lot Hazards

Parking lots are notorious for causing scratches. Tight spaces, careless drivers, and shopping carts are all potential threats. Car doors from neighboring vehicles can swing open and make contact with your car, leaving behind a bad scratch. To help mitigate this risk, it’s better if you can park in less-crowded areas of the lot, even if that means a somewhat longer walk to the entrance.


Improper Washing Techniques

Using the wrong tools and techniques to wash your car can lead to scratches in the paint. Old or dirty sponges can scrape the surface of your car. Some automatic car washes that use rough bristles may leave swirl marks. To minimize the risk of scratches while washing, it’s best to use microfiber washing mitts that are gentle on the surface.


Road Debris

Rocks, gravel, and other road debris can get kicked up by the tires of vehicles in front of you, striking your car and causing chips or scratches. This is particularly common when driving on highways or gravel roads where loose materials are more likely to be present. Maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, especially on roads with loose debris, can reduce this risk.


Tree Branches and Bushes

If you park your car under trees or near bushes, there’s a risk that overhanging branches or foliage will scratch the surface. Tree branches can sway in the wind, scraping against your vehicle, while small scratches from bushes can accumulate over time as you pull into or out of your driveway.


Keys and Other Sharp Objects

Accidental or intentional scratches from keys, zippers, or other sharp objects are another common cause. Sometimes keys or other items in your pocket can brush against the paint while unlocking the door. In other cases, deliberate acts of vandalism can leave deep scratches.


Car Scratch 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!

4 Ways to Decrease the Risk of Minor Cosmetic Damage to Your Car

By Keen’s Body Shop • November 26, 2025
Keeping your vehicle looking clean and dent-free doesn’t just enhance its appearance—it also helps preserve its value and reduces the need for costly cosmetic repairs. Minor damage such as scratches, door dings, and paint scuffs can accumulate quickly if you’re not mindful of everyday risks. Fortunately, a few simple habits can go a long way toward protecting your car’s exterior. But if your vehicle does incur any cosmetic damage, you’ll want to get the repairs done promptly so that rust doesn’t get a chance to set in. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert auto body repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are four tips for avoiding minor cosmetic damage. Be Selective About Where You Park One of the easiest ways to prevent dents and scratches is to be careful about where you park. Crowded parking lots, tight spaces, and spots near shopping cart returns all increase the likelihood of door dings and accidental bumps. When possible, choose end spots, park farther away from heavy foot traffic, or opt for covered parking to reduce exposure to the elements. A little extra walking can help spare your vehicle from unnecessary damage. Use Proper Washing and Drying Techniques Regular car washing helps maintain your paint, but using the wrong tools can actually cause scratches. Avoid abrasive brushes and harsh sponges that can trap dirt and grit. Instead, use microfiber mitts designed for automotive finishes. Always rinse thoroughly before washing to remove loose debris. By cleaning your vehicle correctly, you reduce the risk of swirl marks and fine scratches. Apply Protective Wax Adding a layer of wax provides a protective barrier against road debris, bird droppings, tree sap, and other contaminants that can harm your finish. Wax not only enhances shine, but also makes it easier to wash off grime without scratching the surface. Applying wax every few months helps keep your paint in excellent condition and limits long-term wear. Avoid Following Vehicles Too Closely Driving too closely behind other cars, especially trucks, increases your exposure to flying rocks and loose debris. Maintaining a safe distance gives you more time to react and reduces the chance of small chips and scratches from kicked-up gravel. This simple driving habit can help protect both your paint and your windshield from unnecessary damage. Auto Body 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!

Basic Precautions that Can Greatly Reduce Your Car Accident Risk

By Keen’s Body Shop • November 5, 2025
While car accidents are very common, many of them can be prevented with careful driving and a proactive mindset. While it’s impossible to control everything that happens on the road, there are simple habits that make a major difference in safety. By staying alert, maintaining your vehicle, and remaining a responsible driver, you can greatly reduce your risk of being involved in an accident. Here are five precautions that every driver should take. Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions Distracted driving is the top cause of collisions. Even a momentary lapse in attention—such as checking a text, reaching for an item, or adjusting a GPS—can lead to serious consequences. To stay safe, make it a rule to keep your focus solely on driving. Maintain a Safe Following Distance Following too closely behind another vehicle significantly increases your chances of a rear-end crash. The general guideline is to stay at least three seconds behind the car in front of you, which provides enough time to react if they brake suddenly. In rain, fog, or heavy traffic, increase that distance to account for longer stopping times. Follow Speed Limits and Adjust for Conditions Speed limits are established to promote safe driving based on road design and surrounding conditions. Driving too fast reduces your reaction time and increases stopping distance, while also making crashes more severe when they occur. Always obey posted limits and slow down during poor weather, heavy traffic, or low visibility. Remember that safe driving isn’t just about staying within the law—it’s about adapting to current conditions and prioritizing safety. Keep Your Vehicle in Top Condition A well-maintained car is much less likely to experience sudden failures that could cause an accident. Regularly check your brakes, tires, and lights to ensure everything functions properly. Worn brake pads, underinflated tires, and dim headlights can all make it harder to avoid danger on the road. Scheduling routine maintenance and addressing issues promptly helps keep your vehicle reliable and safe. Practice Defensive Driving No matter how careful you are, other drivers may not be. Defensive driving means anticipating potential hazards and preparing for the unexpected. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating or sudden lane changes. Always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic signals, and drive patiently. By maintaining awareness, you can greatly reduce your accident risk. Collision Repair in Columbus, OH But even if you’re cautious, you still may end up in an accident due to someone else’s recklessness, in which case our local body shop can help you out. For collision repair in Columbus, Dayton, and Lancaster, 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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