Quick Tips for Reducing the Risk of Car Scratches

Keen’s Body Shop • May 1, 2024

A black mercedes benz is parked on the side of a road.

A scratch on your car can be frustrating, especially if it's noticeable. Whether it's from a stray shopping cart or simply brushing against a rough surface, scratches sometimes seem to appear out of nowhere. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your vehicle's paint job and prevent scratches from occurring in the first place. But if your car does get scratched, you’ll want to get the repairs done ASAP so that rust doesn’t get a chance to take hold. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert car scratch repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here’s a look at four tips for preventing car scratches.

Park Strategically

Cars often get scratched in parking lots. To minimize this risk, opt for parking spaces away from high traffic areas. Look for spots at the end of rows or near curbs where there's less chance of other vehicles parking next to yours. Also, choose spots that provide ample room to maneuver in and out, reducing the likelihood of accidental bumps from neighboring cars or shopping carts.

Wash and Wax Regularly

Regular washing removes dirt, debris, and contaminants that can result in scratches if left on the surface. Also, waxing provides a protective layer that can help repel minor scratches and prevent them from penetrating the paint. Aim to wash your car every other week and apply wax every few months for strong protection.

Use Soft Materials

When cleaning or drying your car, avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the paint. Instead, opt for soft microfiber towels and sponges specifically designed for automotive use. These materials are gentle on the paint surface while effectively removing dirt and water.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings

Simply remaining aware of your surroundings can go a long way in preventing car scratches. Pay attention to your surroundings when driving, especially in tight spaces or areas with limited visibility. Take care when maneuvering in parking lots, driveways, and garages to avoid scraping against walls, poles, or other vehicles. Also, be cautious when loading and unloading cargo to prevent accidental scratches from items like luggage or tools.

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 today to make an appointment!

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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!

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!