Your car is your prized possession, and you want to keep it in pristine condition for years to come. However, a malicious act like having your car keyed can leave you feeling helpless and upset. This guide on how to fix a keyed car will walk you through affordable ways to repair the damage without breaking the bank.
In this post, we will share some easy steps to help remove the scratches and restore your car’s flawless look.
1. Assess the Damage Before Repairing a Keyed Car
Before you start repairing scratch damage on your car, it’s important to assess the extent of the damage. If you’re not sure what keying a car actually means for your paint, deep scratches may require more intricate repair work, while light key marks can usually be handled at home with basic tools.
2. Clean the Surface Before Fixing Keyed Car Scratches
You need to make sure your car is free of any dirt or debris. You can use a microfiber cloth and some soapy water to gently clean the affected area. Rinse and dry off the area properly before moving on to the next step.
3. Apply Scratch Remover to Fix Keyed Car Marks
There are many scratch removers available on the market that can be used to repair light scratches on cars. These products are usually sold in a kit that includes a rubbing compound and an applicator pad. Simply apply the scratch remover onto the pad, and rub the product onto the affected area in a circular motion.
4. Polish the Affected Area
After using a scratch remover, you should polish the affected area to restore the look of your car’s finish. You can use a car polish, which will help to harden the clear coat and remove any remaining scratches.
5. Wax the Car to Protect After Scratch Repair
The final step in fixing a keyed car is to wax the car with a high-quality wax; if you notice any cloudy residue afterward, here’s how to remove wax haze from your car. Waxing the car will help to protect your car’s finish from future scratches and damage. It will also give it a polished look that will make your car look brand new again.
Conclusion
Having your car keyed can be an unfortunate and upsetting experience, but knowing how to fix a keyed car means it doesn’t have to be a costly one. The key is to start with a thorough evaluation of the damage and follow the above steps to restore your car’s flawless look. Once repaired, consider applying a ceramic coating to give the paint extra protection against future scratches.
By following these simple steps, you can give your car the protection and care it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you fix a keyed car scratch yourself?
Yes, in most cases. Light key scratches that haven’t cut through the clear coat can be fixed at home with a scratch remover kit, polish, and wax, without needing a body shop.
How much does it cost to fix a keyed car?
DIY repair with a scratch remover kit typically costs $20 to $50. Professional repair or a full repaint can run anywhere from $150 to over $1,000, depending on how deep the scratch is and how much of the panel is affected.
How do you know if a key scratch is too deep to fix at home?
If you can catch your fingernail in the scratch or see bare metal or primer showing through, the damage has gone past the clear coat and color layers and usually needs professional paint work rather than a DIY scratch remover.
Does insurance cover a keyed car?
Comprehensive coverage typically covers vandalism, including keyed paint, though you’ll need to weigh the repair cost against your deductible before filing a claim.
