How Much Does It Cost to Fix Key Scratches on a Car?

Key scratches on your car can be a frustrating and unsightly problem, but the cost to fix them can vary depending on the severity of the damage. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of key scratches and their associated repair costs.

Scratch Only Hits Clear Coat
If the scratch has not broken through the clear coat, you can likely buff out the scratch yourself or pay $150 to $300 for a repair shop to do it. This type of scratch is the easiest and most affordable to fix, as it only affects the outermost layer of the car’s paint.

DIY Scratch Removal

If you’re comfortable with DIY car care, you can try buffing out the scratch yourself using a microfiber cloth and a scratch removal compound. This method is cost-effective but requires some skill to avoid further damaging the paint.

Professional Scratch Removal

For a more reliable and consistent result, consider taking your car to a professional detailing shop. They have access to specialized tools and products that can effectively remove light scratches without damaging the clear coat.
Scratch Penetrates Clear Coat and Gets to Paint
Scratches that require an auto body shop to reapply the clear coat may cost $400 to $1,000 to fix. This type of scratch is more severe than a clear coat scratch, as it has penetrated through the clear coat and into the paint layer.

Auto Body Shop Repair

When a scratch reaches the paint layer, it requires professional repair from an auto body shop. They will need to sand down the affected area, apply a new clear coat, and blend it with the surrounding paint to ensure a seamless finish. The cost of this repair can vary depending on the size of the affected area and the complexity of the job.
Conclusion
Key scratches can be a frustrating and costly problem, but the good news is that they can be repaired. The cost of fixing a keyed car depends on the severity of the damage, with clear coat scratches being the most affordable to repair and paint layer scratches being more expensive. If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage or prefer a professional touch, consider taking your car to a reputable auto detailing shop for an assessment and repair estimate.