On Thu, 07 Dec 2006 20:21:12 -0800, Doug wrote:

> Hi Group,
>
> I just realized that my 05' civic got scratched in the rear passenger
> end. I've parked it in a parking lot. When I got back from a recent
> trip, it looked it some dude did not bother leaving a name.
>
> I'd like to fix this as soon as possible. My question is, do I need to
> bring it to a dealer and ask them to take care of it? The scratches are
> not big, but they are kind of completely through. Since I am kind of
> short short on cash in this holiday season, I hope to keep the cost
> low... Is there any alternative than going to a dealer? Can I do it by
> myself? I'd be grateful if you could shed me some light. Thanks!

Go to the dealer and get the can of touch-up paint. Usually around $10-12
for a lipstick-sized can.

You can take either take this to a local collision shop, or do it
yourself. Just put a thin coat on with the edge if the brush. Let it dry
completely, then buff with white compound on a soft cloth until it is
pretty much invisible.

Small scratches like that are tough to completely hide, but with a little
work and patience, you can make it so that you are the only one that sees
it... ;-)