The Red Mist is Violated... Oh, and Some Bling

 HELLO CAMPERS!

I'll start with the nasty bit and show you the bling later.

The Nasty Bit

Today I had an errand to do in London. It was a foggy drive, but the Red Mist dutifully let the miles (or kilometers in Canada) fall away for the 1-hour drive to my destination.

I did my chore and needed to be in the area for a bit, so I pulled into a location close to where I completed my errand and settled down for a drink in a fast food establishment.

Now, Sports Fans, I take great pride in owning the Mist. I wash her at least once a week, sometimes more.

And I try to park tactically to minimize contact with errant drivers who do not know or care about car etiquette and the importance of not knocking the shit out of another car's bodywork.

Earlier, I had a young boy knock the driver's side mirror out of the sideview mirror housing which caused s minor scratch, BUT now the mirror jiggles and vibrates a bit. Not super noticeable, but very irritatiing when I notice and think on it.

The Mist has some minor paint chips (2) and the bumper has some as well from road debris.

Yes, Sports Fans, it is normal wear and tear.

Today, fate would have it that my efforts to preserve the Mist went for naught.

As I approached my car a man putting in metal sign posts seemed a bit nervous and just as I started my car he approached and confessed to having damaged my car.

Its interesitng... IF someone owns up to their shit, I handle it calmly. This was such a case. I mean, I know, really, really know how he felt and he was direct with no excuses and stated he would pay for the repairs. I offered to get two quotes and he declined as one of the body shops is in a different town from where I live. He was actively encouraging me to take the least onerous route to get my car fixed.

As you can see, the damage is not significant. It is on the right front of the hood, But it will still cost between $1,000 and $2,000 CDN to repair and take 3 days. The main issue is not the damage, as much as the cost of the labour. They will have to take the bumper fascia off to fix the plastic that has been deformed, and the paint may need to be blended with the hood and the right front quarter panel so that the paint job looks correct.

So, I am awaiting a quote and the shop I went to can fit me in sometime in November. They look really professional and the shop is clean and well organized.

The Bling

Are you a XENALVR? Perhaps entirely comfortable with your orientation? If so, Subaru is for you!

Playing on that, I got a custom decal made and installed it in the engine bay.

Sports Fans, I hope you like it...

Remember to keep the rubber on the right side of your vehicle. Drive safe and practice the Subaru Salute.