NJ Keyed Car Repair: What You Need to Know

Getting your car keyed is a frustrating experience, and unfortunately, it’s a common occurrence in New Jersey. Whether it’s a random act of vandalism or a result of road rage, a keyed car can leave you with expensive repairs and a feeling of vulnerability. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Nj Keyed Car Repair, from understanding the extent of the damage to finding reliable repair shops and navigating insurance claims.

Close-up of keyed car damage

Assessing the Damage: How Bad is It?

The first step after discovering your car has been keyed is to assess the severity of the damage. Keying can result in scratches of varying depths:

• Clearcoat Scratches: These are the most superficial scratches, affecting only the top layer of your car’s paint.
• Paint Scratches: These scratches go deeper, cutting through the clearcoat and into the paint layer, potentially exposing the primer underneath.
• Deep Scratches: The most severe type, these scratches cut through all paint layers, exposing the bare metal and making your car susceptible to rust.

Cross-section illustration of car paint layers

Repairing the Damage: DIY vs. Professional Help

For minor clearcoat scratches, you might be able to use a DIY approach with a rubbing compound or scratch remover product. However, for deeper scratches that have gone through the paint or even reached the metal, it’s best to seek professional NJ keyed car repair services. Trying to fix these yourself could worsen the damage or lead to an uneven finish.

Choosing the Right Repair Shop in NJ

Finding a reliable auto body shop is crucial for quality keyed car repair. Look for shops that:

• Specialize in Car Scratch Repair: Expertise in this area ensures they have the right tools and experience.
• Have Positive Customer Reviews: Online reviews can give you valuable insights into the shop’s reputation.
• Offer Warranties: A shop that stands behind their work will offer a warranty on their repairs.

Dealing with Insurance: Will It Cover Keyed Car Damage?

Whether your insurance covers keyed car repair in NJ depends on your specific policy.

• Comprehensive Coverage: This type of coverage typically covers vandalism, including keying.
• Collision Coverage: Collision coverage usually only kicks in if the damage occurs during a collision with another vehicle or object.

Person using a laptop to file an insurance claim online

Remember: Even if you have comprehensive coverage, you’ll likely have to pay a deductible before your insurance covers the rest. Contact your insurance agent to understand your policy terms and file a claim if necessary.

Preventing Future Keying Incidents

While you can’t entirely eliminate the risk of vandalism, you can take steps to minimize it:

• Park in Well-Lit Areas: Visibility can deter potential vandals.
• Install Security Cameras: Cameras act as a deterrent and can help identify the culprit if an incident occurs.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Park in safe areas and be mindful of suspicious individuals.

Conclusion

Dealing with a keyed car is stressful, but understanding your repair options and insurance coverage can make the process smoother. Remember to assess the damage carefully, choose a reputable repair shop, and contact your insurance company to discuss your coverage. By taking these steps, you can restore your car to its former glory and move on from this unfortunate experience.