How much does it cost to repair a car that's been keyed?

Whether accidentally scratched or deliberately keyed, needing to repair car damage is very frustrating.

Beyond the obvious eyesore, it can also be expensive to fix if the key marks are very deep. A car key repair cost sits between £80 and £400+, depending on the extent of damage.

Fortunately, understanding typical costs, repair options, and preventive measures can help you restore your car quickly and cost-effectively. Here’s what you need to do if your car has been keyed

How much does a keyed car repair cost?

The answer depends on a variety of factors, with repair costs starting at £80 and going to £400 and beyond for significant damage.

This large cost range is due to the depth, length, and location of the scratch, the type of paint, and whether multiple panels are affected. Luxury cars, metallic, or pearlescent finishes usually cost more to repair than standard paint.

Also, you should note that labour rates and location also influence prices, with garages in London or the South East typically charging more.

Here are some average costs. A professional mechanic can tell you how deep or significant the damage is.

You can use car repair finance to split the final fee into interest-free repayments, regardless of the type of car key repair needed.

How long does it take to repair a keyed car?

Like the cost, keyed car repair times vary depending on the damage:

• Minor scratches – 30 minutes to 2 hours

• Medium scratches or spot respray – 2 to 6 hours

• Full panel respray – 1 to 2 days, including drying and finishing

Complex repairs involving multiple panels or specialised paint may take longer to achieve a seamless finish.

Can you claim a keyed car on insurance?

Usually, yes. Comprehensive car insurance often covers vandalism, including keyed scratches.

You may need to pay your excess, so consider whether the cost of the repair justifies making a claim. Always check your policy wording or contact your insurer before booking any repairs.

Does claiming for a keyed car affect your no-claims discount?

Yes, making a claim for a keyed car can affect your no-claims discount. This is also happens if you claim through your own comprehensive insurance.

Unfortunately, some insurers may reduce your discount or increase your premium.

Can you press charges on someone who keyed your car?

Yes, you can press charges, as keying a car is considered criminal damage in the UK.

You should report it to the police. They may investigate and potentially prosecute the offender if identified. It’s also good to report it to the police if you wish to make an insurance claim.

What to do if your car was keyed

No one’s prepared for their car to be keyed. If you discover car key damage, these are the suggested steps you should take:

Will police investigate a scratched car in the UK?

The police may investigate if car key vandalism is reported, particularly when there is clear evidence or repeat offences.

However, for minor scratches, local forces often advise reporting the incident for insurance purposes rather than conducting a full investigation.

Does WD-40 remove scratches from a car?

WD-40 can temporarily reduce the visibility of very light surface scratches by filling in tiny gaps. But it’s not a permanent solution and also will not work for medium or deep scratches that penetrate the paint or clear coat.

Does T-Cut work on key scratches?

T-Cut is effective for shallow surface scratches and minor blemishes. It works by polishing the clear coat and smoothing out imperfections.

For deeper scratches that go through the paint layer, a professional respray or spot repair is required if you want a seamless finish.

Is it worth it to fix a keyed car?

Yes. Though key scratches might seem like a cosmetic issue, when left unrepaired, they can worsen over time. This can lead to rust or further paint damage, which can also lead to further problems.

Repairing keyed damage preserves the car’s appearance and resale value. So, even minor scratches can be worth fixing for peace of mind and vehicle longevity.

Can I fix a keyed car myself?

DIY fixes are possible for very minor scratches using polish or scratch removers, such as T-Cut and WD-40 mentioned above.

However, medium to deep scratches usually require professional work to restore colour matching and finish. Attempting complex repairs at home can result in uneven colour or further damage.

As always, if you’re unsure or have no previous experience, it’s always best to book your car in with a professional.

Factors that influence the cost of a keyed car repair

You can never be 100% protected against car damage, especially if the cause was another person. But taking extra steps against key scratches is far easier than repairing them.

Here are some practical steps to prevent accidental damage.

• Be mindful in tight spaces – Park away from other cars where doors could brush against yours.

• Use a protective cover or wrap – Silicone or soft key covers can reduce accidental scratching when keys touch your paint.

• Apply a paint protection film or ceramic coating – These form a barrier over your car’s paint, helping resist minor scratches.

• Keep your keys and accessories separate – Avoid carrying them loosely in pockets or bags that might rub against your vehicle.

• Regular washing and waxing – Clean paintwork is less prone to damage, and a wax layer can help reduce surface scratches.

To prevent damage from others, you can:

• Park in a garage or secure space – You can never park away from humans 24/7, but leaving your car in a secure garage can lessen the chance of vandalism.

• Install signs or CCTV - These can deter vandalism on your own property.

• Avoid leaving your car unattended in high-risk areas – This includes busy or poorly lit streets. Parking places by public events can also be at higher risk.

Last words

Car keyed repairs can range from a simple polish to a full panel respray, with costs varying depending on the depth, size, and complexity of the damage. But hopefully, this article has given you an accurate cost estimate so you can move forward with a fix.

Remember, acting quickly prevents further paint deterioration or rust, and it’s always best to choose a professional repair to ensure a seamless finish.

Split the cost with Bumper

Make car key scratches a distant memory. A car repair loan can split the cost into interest-free repayments.

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers.