FAQ: Collision Repair

Keen's Body Shop • February 9, 2024

two cars are involved in a car accident on the side of the road .

In the aftermath of an accident, the top priority is ensuring that any potential injuries are promptly addressed. But once the dust settles and your health checks out, you'll need to take the necessary steps to return your vehicle to a safely drivable condition. If you've never needed collision repair before, then you might have some questions about how this process works. At Keen's Body Shop, our crew will be happy to answer any of your questions about getting your vehicle repaired by us. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about collision repair.

Where does my vehicle go after an accident?

Undriveable vehicles are commonly towed away to be professionally assessed. Your vehicle may go to a body shop. Or, depending on the situation, it may instead go to a facility operated by your insurance company for an evaluation. In situations where the car can still be safely driven, the driver may be able to keep using it until the repairs can be done at the shop.

How much does it cost to get collision damage repaired?

The severity of the damage will primarily determine the costs involved. And it's definitely better to go to a shop that is highly experienced with generating accurate estimates so that you don't get any surprises. Your insurance coverage will largely determine how much you have to spend out of pocket.

Do I get to choose where the repairs are done? Or does my insurance choose?

Your insurance agent might recommend that your vehicle gets repaired at a specific shop. However, you're the one who gets to decide where your car goes for the repairs. Before making your decision, it's worth doing some research to find a reputable shop that has a strong track record of providing top-quality service.

Where can I get excellent collision repair in Columbus?

When you need collision repair in Columbus and the surrounding area, visit the experts at Keen's Body Shop. At our local body shop, we can flawlessly address your vehicle's cosmetic needs. And feel free to use our easy online estimate tool!

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Why Car Frame Damage Should Be Quickly Repaired Even When It Seems Minor

By Keen’s Body Shop • August 4, 2025

After a fender bender or low-speed collision, it might be tempting to shrug off minor car frame damage, especially if the vehicle still drives and there are no glaring visual issues. However, even seemingly small frame problems can lead to bigger trouble down the road. Your car’s frame serves as the backbone of the vehicle, supporting everything from the engine and suspension to the body panels and safety systems. Overlooking frame damage can compromise the vehicle’s safety and performance. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert automotive frame repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are five important reasons to take any frame damage seriously and get it repaired promptly. Safety Risks Increase The primary reason to fix car frame damage right away is safety. Modern vehicles are designed with crumple zones and reinforced structures to absorb impact energy in a crash. If the frame is bent, cracked, or weakened, it may not perform as intended during another collision, putting you and your passengers at greater risk. Structural damage can also affect how airbags deploy and how well seat belts function, both of which are vital during an accident. Uneven Tire Wear and Suspension Problems A damaged frame can throw off your car’s alignment, leading to uneven pressure on the tires and suspension system. As a result, your tires may wear out more quickly and unevenly, causing you to replace them more often than necessary. Misalignment can also create a rougher ride, reduce handling performance, and increase the strain on suspension components. Resale Value Takes a Hit Even minor frame damage that goes unrepaired can significantly reduce your vehicle’s resale or trade-in value. Buyers and dealers are wary of structural issues, and many will walk away from a car that has a history of frame damage. Repairing the frame professionally and documenting the work can preserve more of your car’s value and make it easier to sell when the time comes. Hidden Damage May Be Present What appears to be a small dent or bend could be hiding more severe internal damage. Without a proper inspection, it’s easy to miss cracks, compromised welds, or alignment issues that aren’t immediately visible. Professional repair shops have the tools and expertise to uncover and address the full extent of the damage before it worsens. Acting quickly protects your car's long-term reliability and your own peace of mind. Automotive Frame 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!

4 Reasons Why It’s Essential to Quickly Fix Car Paint Damage

By Keen’s Body Shop • July 6, 2025

Even a small chip or scratch in your car’s paint may not seem like a big deal at first, but leaving it unaddressed can lead to larger problems. Car paint does more than give your vehicle a nice shine—it protects the metal underneath from moisture, corrosion, and other environmental threats. Taking quick action to fix paint damage helps preserve your vehicle’s condition. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert auto paint repair in the greater Columbus area. Here are four important reasons why prompt repair is essential. Prevents Rust from Forming When your car’s paint is chipped or scratched, the protective layer over the metal body is compromised. This allows water and oxygen to come into contact with the exposed metal, which can quickly lead to rust. Once rust begins to form, it can spread beneath the surface and cause structural issues that are far more expensive to fix than a simple paint repair. Addressing even minor paint damage right away helps protect your vehicle from corrosion. Maintains Your Vehicle’s Resale Value A car’s exterior is one of the first things buyers notice, and paint damage can give the impression that a vehicle hasn’t been well cared for. Whether you plan to trade in your car or sell it privately, a damaged paint job can significantly reduce its resale value. Fixing scratches, chips, and fading promptly shows that you’ve taken good care of the car and helps you get a better return on your investment when it’s time to sell. Stops Damage from Spreading Small areas of paint damage can worsen quickly if left untreated. A minor chip may grow into a peeling section of paint, and scratches can deepen with continued exposure to the elements. Dirt, debris, and abrasive car washes can all make existing damage worse. Promptly repairing the affected area helps prevent further degradation and keeps the issue contained before it becomes a bigger—and costlier—problem. Improves Overall Appearance Your car’s exterior plays a big role in its overall look. Even if your vehicle is in great mechanical shape, damaged paint can make it appear neglected. Touching up the paint not only restores your car’s original beauty, but also gives you a sense of pride when driving it. A well-maintained paint job contributes to a polished appearance that enhances your car’s visual appeal. 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 to make an appointment!