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!

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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