What the published price guidance covers
Key scratch repair is advertised from £150 by AutoScratch, with VAT treatment unstated. Damage across several panels or through the paint needs an individual assessment rather than a fixed whole-car price. Source: https://www.autoscratch.co.uk/price-guide/
| Job | Typical UK cost |
|---|---|
| Key scratch repair | From £150; confirm VAT |
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What affects the cost
Repair method
A key scratch often follows a long line across doors and wings. A repairer maps each affected panel and depth before choosing local refinishing, full panel painting or a limited cosmetic touch-in.
Extent and access
Repair time depends on the size, depth and position of damage, access behind the panel and removal of trim or fitted parts. A quote should identify what is being repaired, painted or replaced.
Paint and finish
Metallic, pearl and multi-stage paint can require more preparation and blending than a small solid-colour repair. Matching an aged finish may involve neighbouring panels. Ask whether the price is for a local repair or a complete panel.
Parts and safety checks
Photograph the whole length as well as a close-up. A single close-up can hide how many panels need work.
What to photograph and check
- Photograph the whole length as well as a close-up. A single close-up can hide how many panels need work.
- Take a wide photo showing the affected side or corner, then a clear close-up in daylight. Include a second angle that shows dents and panel gaps.
- Mention existing repairs, peeling paint, corrosion and any warning lights. Avoid sharing visible number plates, people or personal details.
How to pay a fair price
Compare like-for-like repair scopes rather than the headline price alone. Ask for labour, paint materials, parts, VAT and any calibration to be identified. RepairRadar’s photo estimate is an indicative range, not a promise that a bodyshop can safely complete every repair from pictures alone. Send the estimate to a local published bodyshop and let it confirm access, method and hidden damage before booking. If no bodyshop covers your postcode, you can request an alert instead; no local quote is promised.
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Related guides
Bumper scuff repair cost in the UK
A limited plastic bumper scuff repair is listed at £75–£250 plus VAT by one UK repairer. This is repairer-published guidance, not a national average or a guaranteed quote.
Cracked bumper repair cost in the UK
Cracked bumper repairs are advertised from £150 by AutoScratch, whose guide does not state VAT treatment. A long split, torn mounting or unsafe repair may require replacement instead.
Door dent repair cost in the UK
Single-panel dents are listed at £65–£250 plus VAT by one UK repairer. Paintless repair and a dent needing filler and repainting are different jobs, so the condition of the paint matters.