Keyed Car Repairs

We don’t judge, we just fix it.

Page Contents

Examples of our Keyed Car Repairs
Mobile Keyed Car Fixes
Our SMART Approach
Keyed Car Repair FAQs
Related Guides

Discovering a key scratch or vandalism on your car is frustrating. Unfortunately, keying cars has become a common act of vandalism, occurring nationwide daily and costing the public millions each year. Left untreated, these scratches can worsen, leading to rust or further damage, which can become expensive to fix.

The great news is that keyed car repairs don’t need to break the bank if tackled quickly and efficiently. At ChipsAway, we offer a specialised service to restore your car’s appearance. Our convenient approach means you can relax while we take care of your keyed car. Getting your car scratched is bad enough; let us take care of the rest. 

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Examples of our Keyed Car Repairs

Close up of red car front bumper and wheel trim with scratches

Close up of grey car front bumper and wheel after repair

Close up of white rear car bumper after repair

Mobile Keyed Car Fixes

Our mobile repair service allows you to choose the time and location that best fits your schedule. Whether you’re at home, work or even on holiday, our local experts throughout the UK are ready to assist.

Our technicians offer a mobile keyed car repair service, or, depending on your location, you may also have the option to visit one of our conveniently located Car Care Centres. No matter where you are in Britain, we have experts nearby who can help fix your keyed car.

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Our SMART Approach to Keyed Car Repairs

Our keyed car repair service is quick, cost-effective, and designed to save you time and money compared to traditional repair methods.

When you book with us, our specialist assesses the damaged area and prepares it by cleaning and masking off surrounding panels. Using our SMART (Small to Medium Area Repair Technology) approach, we focus on repairing only the damaged area – this includes sanding, priming and precisely matching your car’s paintwork for a seamless finish. Once repaired, we blend the new paint into the undamaged areas so there is no visible difference. Whether it’s a keyed panel or vandal scratch, our specialists ensure a flawless result without the need for full panel replacements or body shop repairs.

We use advanced tools and specialist materials to match your car’s paintwork and restore it to its original condition. Repairs are typically completed in just a few hours, saving you the hassle and expense of traditional methods.  

Contact your local ChipsAway specialist or request a free estimate today!

Before and after of wheel arch damage on a silver car

Keyed Car Repair FAQs

We’ve collated some of the most frequently asked questions about bumper repair below. For more information about how we can help you directly, call us today on 0800 145 5118.

What is a keyed car?

A keyed car refers to a vehicle that has been deliberately scratched with a sharp object, typically along its paintwork. This type of vandalism is intentional and often leaves visible, deep scratches on the surface, which affect the car’s appearance and potentially lower its resale value.

How to tell if a car is keyed?

Key scratches are typically long, deep and linear, often running along one or more panels of your car. These marks are usually distinguishable from accidental scratches by their consistent depth and deliberate placement. Inspect the paintwork closely to confirm if the damage is consistent with scratching by a sharp object.

Can I repair a keyed car scratch myself?

f the scratch is only superficial and on the very surface (or clearcoat) of the car, then it may be possible to repair it yourself using a car scratch repair kit. If the scratch is deeper and cuts through into the metal, then it is best to contact a professional. This is because a deeper scratch needs to be treated properly so it doesn’t rust or cause more damage later.

Is it worth it to fix a keyed car?

Repairing a keyed car is worth it to maintain its value, prevent rust and restore its appearance. Untreated scratches can worsen over time, leading to costly repairs. Opting for ChipsAway professional services ensures a high-quality result, especially for prominent scratches that cannot be effectively fixed with DIY methods. Learn more reasons why you should remove car scratches here.

How long does a keyed car repair take?

The great news is that, although getting your car keyed is inconvenient, the repair doesn’t need to be. Using the ChipsAway SMART repair method, removing a scratch from your car takes a few hours to complete. This means that your car can be back on the road, looking like it did before the scratch occurred, in no time.

How much does it cost to fix a car that has been keyed?

At ChipsAway, we specialise in convenient and affordable car scratch repair designed around your needs. Due to our SMART repair methodology, we can complete a car scratch repair at a fraction of the price of a traditional body shop. The precise keyed car repair cost will depend on the size and severity of the damaged area.

Does my insurance cover my car being keyed?

If your car is keyed, report it to the police for a crime number, which you’ll need to claim on your insurance. Before claiming, check if the excess matches or exceeds repair costs, as it may not be worthwhile. Claims could also increase premiums. For smaller damage, consider a quick professional repair from ChipsAway – get a no-obligation quote.

How can I prevent car key scratches and vandalism?

There is no sure-fire way to protect your car from vandalism or car key scratches; however, there are ways to reduce the likelihood. 
1. Park in a well-lit spot such as under a streetlamp 
2. Park in your driveway close to your home 
3. Install surveillance cameras or video-doorbells that capture passers-by 
4. Do not park too close to others  
Doing the above doesn’t mean you can avoid your car being keyed or vandalised, but it can help reduce the odds. Check out our blog post for more tips on how to protect your car’s paintwork from scratches.

What is the difference between a keyed car and a scratch?

A keyed car typically has scratches intentionally made by a sharp object, resulting in deep and linear damage. General scratches often occur accidentally from debris, car washes or minor impacts, and may vary in size and depth. Key scratches are usually more severe and require specialised repairs.

Does T-Cut work on key scratches?

T-Cut can help with light key scratches by polishing the surface and reducing their visibility. However, for deep or extensive scratches, T-Cut alone may not be sufficient, as it doesn’t fill or fully repair the damage. Professional repair services are recommended for seamless and lasting results. Find out how to use T-Cut in our blog.

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Keyed Car Repairs

Examples of our Keyed Car Repairs

Mobile Keyed Car Fixes

Our SMART Approach to Keyed Car Repairs