How to Fix a Deep Keyed Car

Having a car is a valuable asset, and it’s not just about the monetary value. Cars serve as a convenient means of transportation, and they provide us with comfort and convenience. Unfortunately, there are times when our cars get keyed, which can be a frustrating experience. A deep keyed car is a damaged vehicle with scratches that have gone beyond the clear coat layer, and it requires more than just a simple touch-up paint. Here’s a guide on how to fix a deep keyed car.

Step 1: Assess the Extent of the Damage

The first thing to do is to assess the extent of the damage. Check the depth of the scratches to determine if they have gone beyond the paint and clear coat level. If the scratches are shallow, you can use a touch-up paint to fix them. However, if the scratches are deep, you need to take more advanced steps to fix them.

Step 2: Sand the Scratched Area

Use a sandpaper to sand down the scratched area until the surface becomes smooth. The sandpaper grit number you use depends on the depth of the scratches. If the scratches are deep, start with a coarse grit of around 800, and then work your way up to a finer grit of 2000. Make sure to keep the sandpaper wet to avoid creating more scratches.

Step 3: Apply Filler

After sanding, apply a filler to the scratched area to even out the surface. The filler should be of the same color as your car’s paint. Apply the filler using a putty knife and let it dry completely before sanding it down to a smooth surface.

Step 4: Apply Primer

Apply primer to the sanded area to prepare it for painting. The primer helps the paint adhere to the surface, and it also protects the metal from rusting. Apply the primer in thin coats and let it dry completely before sanding it down gently with a fine-grit sandpaper.

Step 5: Apply Paint

Apply the car’s paint to the primed surface. You can either use a spray gun or a brush, depending on the size of the area you’re painting. Make sure to match the paint color with your car’s original color. Apply the paint in thin coats and let it dry completely before applying another coat. Repeat until you achieve the desired color depth.

Step 6: Apply Clear Coat

Apply a clear coat to the painted area to protect it from UV rays and other external damages. The clear coat also gives the paint a glossy finish. Apply the clear coat in thin coats and let it dry completely before applying another coat. Repeat until you achieve the desired finish.

Step 7: Buff the Surface

After the clear coat has dried completely, buff the surface using a buffing pad to create a smooth and glossy finish. Buff in circular motions, and make sure to apply the right amount of pressure to avoid scratching the surface.

Step 8: Clean the Surface

Clean the surface using a microfiber cloth and a car cleaner to remove any grime or dirt. Make sure not to use any abrasive materials that can scratch the surface. You can also wax the surface to preserve the paint and give it an extra layer of protection.

Step 9: Inspect Your Work

Inspect your work to ensure that the surface is smooth, even, and glossy. Check for any imperfections, and fix them accordingly. If you’re satisfied with the result, move on to the final step.

Step 10: Protect Your Car

Protect your car from future damage by parking it in a secure location, such as a garage. You can also install a car alarm to deter vandals from scratching your car. Additionally, consider getting a car insurance policy that covers vandalism to protect your car in case of any future incidents.