How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Keyed Car? 2024 Guide
Getting our loved car keyed will be an unfortunate situation and this makes us totally stressed and violated too. Apart from emotional worries, we also have to think about financial aspects. In San Bernardino, the cost to fix a keyed car depends on its condition after repairs. Here is the complete guide to have a detailed knowledge about the cost of fixing a keyed car in San Bernardino
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Keyed Car?
When a mechanic repairs a car that has been keyed, the extent of the damage can vary significantly. There are two main categories of damage: minor and major. This distinction also affects the cost of repairs. Minor damage typically results in scratches, while major damage may require more extensive repairs.
Estimated Repair Costs for Keyed Car:
| Repair Type | Estimated Cost | Details |
| Touch-Up Paint | $50 – $150 | This solution is well-suited for repairing minor scratches and serves as an effective method for quickly addressing small areas. |
| Professional Paint Job | $300 – $1,500 | For deeper scratches that need sanding and repainting, the price depends on the quality of paint used. |
| Buffing and Polishing | $100 – $200 | Suitable for shallow scratches; restores the car’s surface by smoothing out imperfections. |
| Panel Replacement | $500 – $3,000 | Required for extensive damage; costs depend on the vehicle’s make, model, and severity of damage. |
Additional Costs:
- Labor Charges: Many repair shops charge an hourly rate for labor, which can range from $75 to $150 per hour.
- Estimates and Diagnostics Fees: Some shops may charge a fee for diagnostics or estimates, usually around $50 to $100, which may be waived if you proceed with repairs.
Detailed breakdown
1. Touch-Up Paint ($50 – $150)
For minor scratches, a touch-up paint job is an effective solution. This process involves applying a perfectly matched paint to cover the scratch. Prices are generally between $50 and $150, depending on the scratch’s depth and paint quality, making it a cost-effective choice.
2. Professional Paint Job ($300 – $1,500)
For deeper scratches, a professional paint job is essential, involving sanding, priming, and repainting. Costs typically range from $300 for small areas to $1,500 for larger repairs, ensuring your vehicle looks its best.
3. Buffing and Polishing ($100 – $200)
If the scratch isn’t too deep, a quick buff and polish can effortlessly restore your surface to pristine condition. This technique involves using a specialized machine to smooth out the scratched area and restore the car’s finish. Buffing is a cost-effective solution that typically costs between $100 and $200, making it a great option for less severe scratches.
4. Full Panel Replacement ($500 – $1,500)
In cases where the scratch is severe and the panel itself is damaged beyond repair, a full panel replacement might be necessary. This is the most expensive option, with costs ranging from $500 to $1,500 depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Luxury vehicles or those with custom paint jobs tend to be on the higher end of this spectrum.
5. Labor Charges ($75 – $150 per hour)
In addition to the material costs, labor charges are another factor to consider. Many repair shops in San Bernardino charge hourly rates for labor, which typically range from $75 to $150 per hour. The total labor cost will depend on the extent of the damage and the complexity of the repair.
6. Estimates and Diagnostic Fees ($50 – $100)
Before any work is done, some repair shops may charge a fee for providing an estimate or running diagnostics test on the vehicle. This fee is typically between $50 and $100 but may be waived if you choose to have the repair completed at the same shop.
The total cost to fix a keyed car can range from $50 for minor touch-ups to as much as $1,500 for more significant repairs such as panel replacement or extensive repainting. It’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes from repair shops in San Bernardino to ensure you’re getting competitive pricing. By understanding the different repair options and their associated costs, you can make an informed decision on how to restore your vehicle’s appearance after being keyed.
Factors That Influence the Cost to Fix a Keyed Car
Several factors can impact the total cost to fix a keyed car in San Bernardino:
- Types of Keys:
- Mechanical Keys: Standard keys for traditional locks usually cost between $10 and $50 to replace.
- Transponder Keys: Featuring a security chip, these keys typically range from $120 to $250.
- Smart Keys: For keyless entry systems, the cost can be higher, often ranging from $220 to $500 depending on the vehicle model.
- Extent of Damage:
The depth and length of the scratch play a significant role in determining the cost. Minor surface scratches may only require buffing or a touch-up, while deeper scratches may need full repainting or even panel replacement. - Type of Vehicle:
High-end or luxury vehicles typically use more costly paint and need specialized repairs, which can substantially raise the overall repair costs compared to standard models. - Repair Method Chosen:
A touch-up job is far less expensive than a full repaint or panel replacement. The choice of repair method will influence how much you end up paying. - Labor Charges:
Labor costs vary between shops in San Bernardino. Dealerships often charge higher rates compared to independent repair shops. - Location of the Damage:
If the scratch is in a hard-to-reach area or affects multiple panels, the repair process becomes more complex, increasing both labor and material costs. - Paint Quality:
The quality of the paint used in the repair will also affect the price. Premium paints that match the original color precisely can be more expensive than generic options.
Does Car Insurance Cover Keying?
Many car owners wonder if their insurance policy covers the cost to fix a keyed car. The answer depends on the type of coverage you have. If you carry comprehensive coverage, which protects against vandalism, then repairs for a keyed car will likely be covered after paying the deductible.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Deductibles: You’ll be responsible for paying the deductible, which can range from $250 to $1,000 depending on your policy. If the cost to fix the keyed car is less than your deductible, it may not be worth filing a claim.
- Impact on Premiums: Filing a vandalism claim might increase your insurance premiums, so it’s important to weigh the cost of repairs against the potential long-term impact on your rates.
- Insurance Provider Specifics: Some insurance providers may have specific policies regarding claims for vandalism. It’s best to contact your provider to verify the details of your coverage.
In San Bernardino, vandalism-related claims are not uncommon, so it’s advisable to review your insurance policy to see if keying damage is covered.
Conclusion
Fixing a keyed car in San Bernardino can be expensive, but the exact cost depends on the severity of the damage, the repair method chosen, and the type of vehicle. By getting multiple quotes, understanding the influencing factors, and checking if your car insurance covers vandalism, you can better manage the costs involved. Whether it’s a minor touch-up or a full repaint, taking prompt action will ensure your car is restored to its original condition, protecting its value and appearance.
If you’re facing a similar issue, reach out to local auto repair shops in San Bernardino for an accurate estimate on how much it will cost to fix your keyed car.
