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 Tips to Prevent Your Vehicle from Getting Scratched

By Keen’s Body Shop • June 2, 2025
Scratches can quickly diminish the appearance and value of your vehicle. Even small scratches can lead to rust and paint damage over time. Fortunately, there are several practical steps you can take to help protect your car’s exterior. But if your vehicle does get scratched, 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 car scratch repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are four tips for preventing scratches and keeping your car looking its best. Be Careful Where You Park Choosing a safe place to park is one of the easiest ways to avoid scratches. Whenever possible, park away from crowded areas where other drivers are likely to park too close or open their doors into your vehicle. Avoid parking near shopping cart return areas or next to vehicles that appear neglected. If you’re parking on the street, try to stay away from tight spaces where other vehicles might pass closely. Wash Your Car the Right Way Improper washing techniques can actually cause scratches instead of preventing them. Always rinse your car thoroughly before washing to remove loose dirt and debris that can scratch the paint. Use a clean, soft microfiber cloth and an automotive-specific soap. When drying, use a microfiber towel and pat the surface instead of dragging the towel across the paint. Use a High-Quality Wax Applying a protective layer of wax adds a barrier between your car’s paint and the outside world. This can help reduce the impact of small abrasions from dirt, road debris, or even light contact with other objects. Wax not only helps maintain your vehicle’s shine, but also makes it easier to wash off contaminants that might otherwise scratch the paint. Regularly reapplying wax ensures that this layer of protection remains effective. Keep Items Away from the Car’s Surface Many scratches occur when people unintentionally brush against a car with bags, keys, or other objects. Be mindful when loading or unloading your vehicle and avoid placing anything on the roof, trunk, or hood. Even resting a box or shopping bag on the surface for a moment can lead to marks. If you use your trunk frequently, take extra care when removing large or bulky items that might graze the surrounding paint. 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!

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!
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