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!

Why You Should Still Get a Professional Inspection After a Minor Accident

By Keen’s Body Shop • October 1, 2025
It’s easy to shrug off a small fender-bender or low-speed collision and assume that everything is fine with your vehicle. If the car still runs and the damage looks minimal, scheduling a professional inspection might not seem necessary. However, even minor accidents can cause hidden damage that isn’t immediately obvious but can lead to bigger issues down the road. That’s why it’s always smart to have an experienced professional take a closer look. Here are four important reasons to get an inspection after a minor accident. Hidden Structural Damage Can Go Undetected A small bump may not show obvious signs of damage, but it can still affect your vehicle’s structural integrity. Even subtle frame misalignments can weaken your car’s ability to protect you in future accidents. Professional inspections use precise equipment to detect these issues, helping to ensure that your car remains safe and structurally sound. Mechanical Issues May Be Overlooked A minor collision can impact more than just the exterior of your vehicle. Components like the suspension and steering system can suffer damage that isn’t visible at first glance. Left unchecked, these problems can worsen over time, leading to costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions. An inspection helps ensure that all systems are functioning properly. Safety Features Might Not Work as Intended Modern vehicles rely on advanced safety systems like airbags, sensors, and cameras. Even a low-speed accident can disrupt these systems, meaning they may not deploy or function correctly in another emergency. A professional inspection verifies that these critical safety features are still operational and reliable. Ignoring Small Problems Can Lead to Bigger Costs What seems like a minor dent or scratch can sometimes mask underlying damage that grows worse over time. For example, a small crack in a radiator or a bent suspension component might lead to major repairs later. Getting an inspection early helps catch these problems before they escalate into more expensive fixes. Collision Repair in Columbus, OH For 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!

Why It’s Important to Professionally Address Car Rust Immediately

By Keen’s Body Shop • September 4, 2025
Rust is one of the most damaging problems a vehicle can face, and once it begins, it doesn’t stop on its own. Many drivers brush off small rust spots as cosmetic issues, but rust can spread quickly, potentially compromising the safety, performance, and value of your car. Addressing rust with the help of a professional as soon as it appears is the best way to protect your investment. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert car rust repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are four important reasons to deal with car rust right away. Rust Can Spread Quickly Rust doesn’t stay confined to one small spot. Once the paint and protective coating are compromised, rust spreads across metal surfaces. A tiny blemish on the fender can turn into widespread corrosion. The sooner you have a professional treat the problem, the less extensive the damage will be. Rust Weakens Structural Integrity Beyond appearances, rust can eat through critical parts of your car’s frame and body. This weakens the overall structure and makes the vehicle less safe in an accident. Rust in areas such as the frame components can severely compromise strength. A professional repair ensures that the issue is resolved before it becomes a worsening safety hazard. Preserve Resale Value Even small amounts of rust can hurt your car’s resale or trade-in value. Buyers often see rust as a sign that the vehicle hasn’t been properly maintained or may require costly repairs in the future. By taking care of rust right away, you preserve your car’s appearance and protect its long-term value. Pride of Ownership Rust is ugly and can make an otherwise well-maintained car look old and neglected. Professional rust repair restores your car’s smooth, polished appearance and prevents the damage from worsening. Taking care of rust quickly helps ensure your vehicle looks as good as it runs, which enhances pride of ownership. 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  . Our technicians can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
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