What are some simple ways to preserve my vehicle’s paint job?

Keen’s Body Shop • January 31, 2025
A close up of a black sports car on a white surface

Your car’s paint job does more than just make it look good—it protects the metal beneath from rust and corrosion. By taking proactive measures, you can preserve your car's finish and keep it looking great for years to come. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert auto painting and auto paint repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are five tips for protecting your car’s paint job.


Wash Your Car Regularly

One of the simplest ways to protect your car’s paint is through regular washing. Dirt, bird droppings, and tree sap can all harm your car’s finish if left unchecked. Washing your car every two weeks, or more frequently in harsh conditions, removes these contaminants. Use high-quality automotive-specific cleaning products and a microfiber mitt to avoid scratching the surface.


Apply a Protective Wax Coating

Waxing your car creates a barrier between the paint and environmental elements. A good quality wax can help shield your car from UV rays, rain, and pollutants while enhancing its shine. It’s generally best to apply wax about every three to four months.


Park in Shaded or Covered Areas

Direct sunlight can cause your car’s paint to fade and deteriorate over time. Whenever possible, park in shaded areas or under covered structures to minimize sun exposure. If shade isn’t available, consider using a high-quality car cover to protect your vehicle. 


Be Cautious about Automatic Car Washes

While automatic car washes are convenient, sometimes they have abrasive brushes that can be hard on your paint. Generally, it’s best to hand wash your car using soft materials and proper techniques to ensure a thorough and safe cleaning.


Repair Chips and Scratches Promptly

Even small chips and scratches can expose the metal underneath your car’s paint to moisture and oxygen, leading to rust. Address these issues as soon as possible by visiting a body shop for repairs. Taking care of minor issues promptly can prevent them from developing into larger, more costly problems.


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!

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!
Show More >