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 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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