how to fix small scratches?

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!

Best Regards,
Doug

 

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... ;-)

 

For a really nice job, go by your dealer's used car lot and talk to the
manager there. Ask him when his paint touch-up people visit the lot,
letting him know why. Return when they are there and have it
professionally fixed.

 

I just noticed one on our 10-day old Odyssey. I plan to take it to the
local detailing shop, see if it can be buffed out. They can frequently
take care of shallow scratches that way, and perhaps recommend a way to
handle deeper ones. I'd do that before approaching the dealer, where
any work will cost way more than a non-dealer.

Dan D
'07 Odyssey Slate Green