Keyed My Car - How Do I Fix This?

Car Maintenance & Repairs
1

I recently found out that someone has keyed my car, and it’s been such a frustrating experience. The scratches are pretty noticeable, and I’m not sure what my best options are for fixing them.

Here’s what I’m considering:

  • Buffing and Polishing: I’ve heard that some scratches can be buffed out with the right products. Has anyone had success with this?
  • Touch-Up Paint: I know there are touch-up kits available, but I’m worried about color matching. How do I find the right paint?
  • Professional Repair Services: If DIY doesn’t work, how do I find a good repair shop? Any recommendations?
  • Reporting the Damage: Should I be reporting this to my insurance or the police? What’s usually the best approach?

Any advice or personal experiences would be appreciated! Thanks in advance for your help!

2

Keying can cause varying degrees of damage, from light scratches to deep gouges that expose the metal underneath. Repair costs could range from $100 for minor fixes to over $1,500 for severe damage. It often depends on your location and car model.

3

That’s really frustrating! I had my car keyed last year, and the quote I got was around $300 for minor scratches. It really depends on where you go but don’t settle for less!

4

It’s definitely a bummer! In some areas, body shops might charge $150 to $250 for basic scratch removal, but it can escalate quickly if the paint needs to be re-done. Have you checked local shop prices yet?

5

I haven’t called any yet! I’m in a small town, so the rates might be lower. Any recommendations on how to approach the shops?

6

When contacting repair shops, be specific about the damage and ask for estimates upfront. Also, don’t forget to check online reviews! It helps to get multiple quotes before deciding.

8 Likes
7

Just to add a bit more, if your car is a luxury model, repair costs can skyrocket. Sometimes going to dealerships can be way pricier than local shops, so do your homework!

8

True! I took my luxury sedan in once, and they wanted over $2,000! Ouch. Always get a second opinion if it’s a high-end car.

6 Likes
9

If you’re just looking to cover up scratches and not do a full repaint, consider touch-up paint or vinyl wraps as a cheaper alternative. They can look pretty decent and save you money!

10

And let’s be honest, if the damage is not too bad, you could always try to fix it yourself! YouTube has tons of tutorials on DIY car repairs.

3 Likes
11

I thought about that, but I am not very handy! I’d rather pay someone to ensure it’s done right. Is that a bad idea?

12

Not at all, Patricia! If you’re uncertain, it’s better to hire a professional. The peace of mind is worth the cost, especially if it ends up looking like a DIY disaster!

4 Likes
13

I’m so sorry to hear that! You can try using a scratch remover kit. They often include compounds and a buffer pad which are perfect for light scratches.

14

I’ve had success with a DIY method using toothpaste! Just apply a small amount on a microfiber cloth and rub it in.

15

Toothpaste? That sounds interesting! What kind do you recommend? I usually have a gel type at home.

16

I highly recommend using a non-gel, whitening toothpaste. It’s slightly abrasive and works wonders on light scratches.

17

Great tip! I guess I can try that before purchasing a kit. What if the scratch is deeper?

18

For deeper scratches, consider using a touch-up paint kit. They come with a brush for precision.

19

Exactly! Just make sure you prep the area by cleaning it first and applying a primer if needed. It really can enhance the finish.

20

That makes sense! Anyone have advice on blending the paint to match the car’s color?

1 Like