When you fix a keyed car, it could be frustrating for you. If you are a car owner, you see that your car is scratched after parking. When you run a quick errand, and return only to find a long, unattractive scrape across your door. It is not just about the damage, it feels particular. But you do not need to worry about this.
You can fix a keyed car yourself, or know what to anticipate if you choose a professional form. In this article, we will take you through how you can fix a keyed car step by step. We will cover everything from relating the depth of the scrape to whether you should repair it yourself or head to a body shop.
What Does “Keyed Car” Mean?
When someone drags a sharp object. It is generally crucial. When you see your car’s paint, that’s what is known as keying. It creates a scrape, shallow, deep enough to cut through to the essence. It is done out of wrathfulness, jealousy, or simply as an act of vandalism.
Why Do People Key Cars?
Keying is frequently driven by feelings. It could be road rage, covetousness, a particular grudge, or arbitrary mischief. It happens in tight parking spaces where tempers run high. It is a destructive act. It is more common than we suppose.
Can You Fix a Keyed Car Yourself?
Of course, you can fix a keyed car yourself, depending on the depth and length of the scratch. However, you will be surprised how fluently it can be buffed out. If it is a face-position scrape. But if it cuts into the manual or essence, you will need further trouble and some professional help.
Evaluate the Damage
When you fix a scrape, you should check how deep it is. It should run your fingernail across it. However, it is just a light face scrape and easy to fix, if your nail does not catch. But if your nail gets caught, the scrape is deeper and it may need more care.
Types of Car Scratches
When you fix a keyed car, it is important to know the type of scrape. You should clear coat scrapes that are light and easy to repair. Paint scrapes go deeper and need matching paint. However, the damage is serious and may need touch-up paint or a professional to fix it. If you see the manual.
Should You File an Insurance Claim?
Before you file an insurance claim, you should consider many things. However, a claim might help if fixing the damage costs further than your deductible. You should make sure you have comprehensive coverage, as it covers vandalism. You must check Flashback; your insurance rates could go up after the form. You should decide precisely before claiming.
Step-by-Step: Fixing Light Surface Scratches
If you have a light scratch in your car. You can follow these steps.
Wash the Area
First of all you should wash the area with soap and water. Because dirt can be disturbed when you repair keyed car scratches.
Apply Scratch Remover or Rubbing Compound
You should use a microfiber cloth to apply a small amount in a circular motion.
Buff the Area
When you continue buffing after the scratch fades. You should not press too hard.
Polish and Wax
If you want to bring back the shine, you should use car polish. Then you may apply wax to protect the area.
Step-by-Step: Repairing Deep Paint Scratches
If your keyed car scratches are deeper. You should follow these steps.
Sand the Scratch Lightly
You should use 2000-grit sandpaper. It could be soaked in water. You should rub softly along the scratch.
Clean the Area
You should clean the scratched area. You may wipe with a clean microfiber cloth to remove dust.
Apply Primer (if metal is exposed)
You should spray a thin coat of primer. You should let it dry fully.
Touch-Up Paint Application
You can use a paint pen or brush. You should apply thin layers and let it dry.
Buff and Polish
When you see everything is dry. You can buff gently and polish the area for a smooth finish.
How to Use Touch-Up Paint Properly
When you fix a small scratch, you should use touch-up paint. If it matches your car’s color. First of all, you should find the paint code on the driver-side door or in the manual. You should shake the bottle, then apply thin layers with a small brush or toothpick. Each layer must dry and finish by spraying a clear coat on top.
Professional Repair
It is better to let a professional fix a keyed car. If the scrape is big or you do not feel confident. They can sand, repaint, and match the color. They also use heat lights to dry the paint. It costs more, but the form will look smooth and like new.
Cost to Fix a Keyed Car
The cost to fix a keyed car depends on how damaged it can be. DIY kits bring around $15–$50, and touch-up paint is about $20–$40. A small professional form can be $150–$300, while repainting a whole panel it might bring $500 or further. It depends on your car and position.
Should You Fix or Leave It?
To fix a keyed car is a particular decision. However, you might ignore it or handle it yourself over the weekend if the scrape is minor. But if it is deep and visible. It’s worth fixing for your car’s appearance and resale value. You must Flashback, a small scrape moment, it can lead to rust. You shouldn’t delay.
Conclusion
When you get your car keyed. It could be dangerous. But the good news is, with a little trouble and the right tools, you can fix it. Whether you attack it yourself or seek professional help. You should restore your car to its former glory. It is absolutely possible. Just take it step by step, and don’t rush the process. In the end, your car will be in a better condition. You will feel a whole lot better driving it again.
Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs )
Is a keyed auto rust if it is not fixed?
It can lead to rust, especially in sticky or stormy areas. If the scrape exposes the bare metal, and you leave it undressed.
Will insurance cover a keyed car?
Yes, if you have comprehensive coverage. It may affect your decoration. It depends on your insurer.
How long does it take to fix a keyed car?
DIY fixes can take 1–3 hours depending on the damage. Professional repairs take take 1–2 days.
