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!

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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!

What can I do to help prevent my car from developing rust?

By Keen’s Body Shop • April 3, 2025

Rust is one of the biggest threats to a vehicle’s longevity. Once it starts, it can spread quickly, weakening the car’s structure and diminishing its value. Fortunately, with proper maintenance and proactive care, you can significantly reduce the risk of rust developing on your vehicle. At Keen’s Body Shop, we can expertly repair blemishes on your car’s body that could otherwise lead to rust. Here are four tips to keep your car rust-free. Wash and Wax Your Car Regularly Dirt and other debris can accelerate rust formation by trapping moisture against your car’s surface. Washing your vehicle regularly removes these harmful elements before they have a chance to cause damage. Pay extra attention to the undercarriage, wheel wells, and lower panels where grime tends to accumulate. Applying a high-quality wax after washing adds a protective layer that shields the paint from moisture, reducing the risk of rust. Fix Paint Chips and Scratches Immediately Even small paint chips and scratches can expose the metal underneath, making it vulnerable to rust. If left untreated, these minor blemishes can allow moisture and oxygen to corrode the metal surface, leading to rust spots. For scratches and other damaged areas, professional repair will provide proper protection. Keep Your Car Dry and Store It Properly Moisture is the primary cause of rust, so keeping your car dry is important. If possible, park in a garage or use a car cover to shield your vehicle from rain and snow. Avoid leaving your car parked on wet grass, which may contribute to rust formation on the undercarriage. Inspect Drainage Areas and Remove Debris Vehicles have drainage holes and channels designed to direct water away from critical areas. When these become clogged with debris, water can accumulate and lead to rust formation. Check areas like door drains and sunroof channels to ensure proper drainage. Keeping these areas clear will help prevent standing water and reduce the likelihood of rust developing. 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 . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!