5 Common Causes of Car Scratches

Keen’s Body Shop • September 26, 2024
A black car is driving down a road on a cloudy day.

Car scratches are a frustrating and common issue for vehicle owners. Whether it's a minor scuff or a deep scratch, they can affect both the appearance and value of your car. If your car gets scratched, it’s important to get the repairs done ASAP. Otherwise, rust could soon take hold. At Keen’s Body Shop, we provide expert car scratch repair in the greater Columbus, OH area. Here are five common ways that cars get scratched.


Parking Lot Hazards

Parking lots are notorious for causing scratches. Tight spaces, careless drivers, and shopping carts are all potential threats. Car doors from neighboring vehicles can swing open and make contact with your car, leaving behind a bad scratch. To help mitigate this risk, it’s better if you can park in less-crowded areas of the lot, even if that means a somewhat longer walk to the entrance.


Improper Washing Techniques

Using the wrong tools and techniques to wash your car can lead to scratches in the paint. Old or dirty sponges can scrape the surface of your car. Some automatic car washes that use rough bristles may leave swirl marks. To minimize the risk of scratches while washing, it’s best to use microfiber washing mitts that are gentle on the surface.


Road Debris

Rocks, gravel, and other road debris can get kicked up by the tires of vehicles in front of you, striking your car and causing chips or scratches. This is particularly common when driving on highways or gravel roads where loose materials are more likely to be present. Maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, especially on roads with loose debris, can reduce this risk.


Tree Branches and Bushes

If you park your car under trees or near bushes, there’s a risk that overhanging branches or foliage will scratch the surface. Tree branches can sway in the wind, scraping against your vehicle, while small scratches from bushes can accumulate over time as you pull into or out of your driveway.


Keys and Other Sharp Objects

Accidental or intentional scratches from keys, zippers, or other sharp objects are another common cause. Sometimes keys or other items in your pocket can brush against the paint while unlocking the door. In other cases, deliberate acts of vandalism can leave deep scratches.


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!

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!

5 Actions to Take Following a Car Accident

By Keen’s Body Shop • March 5, 2025
Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, knowing what steps to take can help you navigate the process as successfully as possible. Here are five important steps to follow after a car accident. Check for Injuries/Take Safety Precautions The first priority after an accident is to check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. If the accident is minor and your vehicle is drivable, move it to a safe location, such as the side of the road, to prevent further hazards. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the situation. Call the Police Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to contact law enforcement. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be valuable when filing an insurance claim. When officers arrive, provide accurate information about what happened. The police will document the scene, gather witness statements, and provide you with a report number that you can reference later. Gather Information and Take Photos Collecting information at the scene is crucial for handling insurance claims and potential legal issues. Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver, including their name, phone number, driver’s license number, and vehicle information. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details as well. Also, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. These images can serve as valuable evidence if there are disputes about the accident. Notify Your Insurance Company Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with the details of the crash, including the police report number, photos, and any witness statements. Be honest about what happened, but avoid speculating about fault. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and explain your coverage. Choose an Expert Body Shop While your insurance agent might suggest you go to a specific shop, you get to decide where to go for the repairs. Be sure to choose a trustworthy shop that knows how to expertly repair collision damage. Collision Repair in Columbus, OH For expert 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 today to make an appointment!
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