Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

Accidents happen, and when they do, CARSTAR Robert’s Collision is here to guide you every step of the way. From understanding your insurance coverage to knowing when to address warning lights, being informed can make a huge difference in getting you back on the road safely. Here’s an overview of the essential steps to take following a collision, and why these steps are vital to ensure both your vehicle’s health and your peace of mind. Step 1: Know What Your Insurance Covers After a collision, the first question many drivers ask is whether their insurance will cover the damage. While coverage varies, here are a few things to keep in mind:     •    Comprehensive vs. Collision Coverage: Collision insurance typically covers damage from accidents, while comprehensive coverage can cover other incidents, like natural disasters, theft, or vandalism.     •    Filing a Claim: Report the ... read more

Maintaining your vehicle is more than just a routine task; it's an investment in safety, performance, and longevity. At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we understand the importance of regular maintenance and how it can benefit both you and the environment. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essential aspects of vehicle maintenance, including the benefits of regular upkeep, the importance of tire care, and the critical role of fluid maintenance. Along the way, we’ll link to detailed posts on each topic for a deeper dive into each area. Why Regular Maintenance is Essential Regular maintenance can save you money, enhance your vehicle's performance, increase safety, and protect the environment. By addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you can avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your vehicle. Here are some key benefits of regular maintenance: Cut Down on Repair Costs One of the primary advantages of regular maintenance ... read more

The Impact of Potholes on Your Vehicle and How to Minimize Damage Potholes are a persistent road hazard, capable of causing significant damage to vehicles and posing safety risks to drivers. Whether navigating bustling city streets or rural highways, encountering a pothole can lead to costly repairs and unexpected inconveniences. In this blog post, we'll delve into the common damages caused by potholes, offer practical tips for drivers to avoid them, and discuss the importance of inspecting your vehicle for potential issues. Additionally, we'll highlight the repair services available at CARSTAR Robert's Collision Repair to address pothole-related damages effectively. The Impact of Potholes When your vehicle collides with a pothole, the consequences can be far-reaching. One of the most immediate and common damages is to the tires. Potholes can cause punctures, sidewall bulges, or even complete blowouts, leaving you stranded on the roadside. Moreover, the sudden impact w ... read more

Maximizing Your Vehicle's Lifespan: A Comprehensive Guide to Maintenance and Repairs In the realm of automotive care, ensuring your vehicle's longevity and performance requires a proactive approach. From addressing cosmetic imperfections to understanding the benefits of direct vendor repair and OEM insurance, each aspect plays a crucial role in maintaining your vehicle's value and safety. Join us as we delve into the essentials of automotive maintenance and repair, exploring how these practices can enhance your driving experience and safeguard your investment. Understanding Direct Vendor Repair A Direct Repair Vendor, often referred to as a DRP (Direct Repair Program) facility, is a collision repair shop that has agreed with an insurance company. This collaboration streamlines the repair process, making it more efficient and convenient for both the policyholder and the insurer. Whether it's r ... read more

Photo by SplitShire   Distracted drivers are everywhere Texting and driving are significant problems on the roads these days. Not only is it dangerous for the driver, but it can also be dangerous for others around them. In this post, we'll discuss some of the most common distractions that drivers face and how to avoid them.   The dangers of distractions while driving It's no secret that distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distractions are a factor in nearly 10% of all fatal crashes.   The most common types of distractions are: Visual (taking your eyes off the road) Manual (taking your hands off the wheel) Cognitive (taking your mind off of driving)   While all three types of distractions can be dangerous, cognitive distractions are particularly dangerous because they prevent drivers from being able to focus on the task at hand.    How to avoid d ... read more

Photo by Pixabay   Regular maintenance can help prevent a collision If you're like most car owners, you probably don't think about your vehicle's maintenance until something goes wrong. And unfortunately, by that point, it can be too late - the damage has already been done, and you're left with a hefty collision repair bill.   But if you take a little time to plan, you can avoid these costly surprises and keep your car running smoothly for years to come. Here are a few simple tips to get you started.   What is Preventative maintenance? Preventive maintenance is any action performed on a vehicle to avoid a future repair. This includes routine oil changes, tire rotations, and brakes checks. By keeping up with these simple tasks, you can help to prevent more serious and costly problems down the road, like a collision. In addition to preventive maintenance, there are other steps you can take to avoid expensive repairs. For example, be sure to drive ca ... read more

Photo by Jim Strasma on Unsplash   Before having kids, you may well have kept your car in fantastic condition. But kids can be rough on vehicles, especially when they’re young and don’t know any better. While they’ll (hopefully) understand how to keep the car cleaner as they get older, here’s a list of 5 tips and tricks from the team at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair to help kid-proof your car.   Organize, Organize, Organize There are a million gizmos and gadgets on the market to keep your car neat and tidy. Still, the biggest lifesaver when you have kids is knowing where everything is in your vehicle. But before you can figure out where everything is, you need somewhere to put ... read more

Most of us dog lovers, want our pup with us in the car. We all have to take our dog here and there, be it the groomers, or just enjoying a ride together. There is not much more satisfying than jingling your keys, and seeing that cute tail wag; we love more opportunities to spend time with Fido. More than half of us drive with our dogs more than once per month. That is a lot of pup's in the car on the road!   When we bring our human family in the car, we make sure they are buckled up, which begs the question, why would we not do the same for our four-legged furry friends? If you decide to take Fido along in the car for a ride, consider investing in a dog safety belt and buckle them into the back seat for safety. If you think of it, a dog that is loose in the car in a time of impact not only becomes a missile, there is a high chance of them getting thrown out of the window. If your pup is in the front seat and an airbag goes off, they will be severely injured. We all know and se ... read more

Distracted driving is more and more common on the road these days, and has become the number one killer, literally even more than drunk driving. We are all guilty from time to time of driving distracted in one way or another, it is human to do so, and ultimately convenient to multi-task. We all know or have that one friend that is the cell phone chatter, the texter, the make-up expert, the food queen, or the in-car DJ. Distracted driving has become nearly fashionable in some sense. However, it also can become quite deadly, so here are some tips to help reduce distractions in the car.   Use the phone for emergencies only  When you are driving, it is best to keep both hands on the road, and your mind trained at the task at hand, driving. Cell phone use should be reserved for emergency use only when driving, and it is even better to pull over to the right side shoulder of the road if you need to make a call. Did you know that even hands-free devices still pose a distraction? It ... read more

  Tinted windows are great for a number of reasons. They can block dangerous UV rays, they look good, and also offer some privacy, so you don't feel like you are driving in a fishbowl when on the road. Keep in mind; there is such a thing as too dark of tint.   Is It Legal? In the south, we encounter many cars with really dark tinted windows. The advantage of dark tint is heat repellant and UV ray reduction. The intense heat of the south does tend to tax your air conditioner, so it is an advantage. As we move to the northern states, dark tint tends to signal that whoever is inside may have reason to hide. Many states have laws in place to limit the tinting of vehicle windows.   Vision Limitation Yes, tinted windows can keep your eyes from sun damage, on darker days, that same tint can impede your vision. Missing an animal crossing the road, a car without headlights, or worse yet, a child running into the way could mean ultimate disaster. It is a good idea to re ... read more

  The dread of finding a new check engine light on in your car can be stressful. Luckily for you, the auto repair experts CARSTAR Robert's Collision and Repair in Monterey are experienced in troubleshooting and are here to take your worries away. Check engine lights come on for a variety of reasons. Before you get stressed out, check your gas cap, some sensors monitor for vapor leaks and will throw a code for merely not having your fuel cap adequately secured. Of course, a blinking check engine light could also mean something as serious as engine misfire, which needs to be addressed by a professional right away to avoid permanent damage to your engine.   You want to pay attention to your check engine light; it is connected to your vehicle's emission system, explicitly designed to monitor it throughout the life of your car. Emission systems and engines in your car are directly tied together, which means the health of one can indicate the health of the other, so pay ... read more

  Accelerating and decelerating should be a smooth, uneventful process. If you feel your car shifting hard, be sure to bring it to the auto mechanics at CARSTAR Robert's Collision and Repair in Monterey, your one-stop repair shop. Catching your shifting issues early can save you a lot of money and be as easy as an adjustment.   Some folks say a clutch is the foot pedal to the left of your brake on the floor of your manual transmission vehicle. Yes, they are half right, the far-left foot pedal is the actual switch which activated the clutch assembly. However, the location of the clutch itself is in your transmission. Does your automatic have a clutch? The answer is yes. An automatic transmission does have a clutch in addition to having sensors automating the activation process, so no foot pedal is needed when driving.   There are five main parts in your clutch that, together, work to sync your engine and wheels, allowing your engine to rev at full speed while you ... read more

  It may be too late for full-on maintenance before heading home for the holidays, but there’s a few things you can do yourself to help get you where you are going safely and without a breakdown. While most of us don’t have to worry about snow, we want our cars as roadworthy as possible. Check your wipers and if they are deteriorating or simply not doing their job, replace them Check all of your fluids to make sure they are at proper levels Check all hoses and belts to make sure they aren’t loose or deteriorating If you are heading to a snowy areas, have good chains at the ready Check your tires for proper inflation as well as for tread depth and sidewall damage  Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times just in case you get stuck in traffic Have an emergency kit that is updated Your emergency kit should include: current medications, snacks, water, gloves, warm blankets, jumper cables, shovel, flashlight with extra batteries, and a well-stock ... read more

When it comes to your vehicle's braking system, you never want to put off necessary repairs. You must be able to stop when you need to stop. That may seem obvious to you, but you'd be surprised how many people put off taking care of their brakes. You want to have them inspected periodically, and anytime something seems off with your brakes, that's the time to quit messing around and get them taken care of ASAP! Your safety and that of your passengers are always the number one priority at CARSTAR Robert's Collision & Repair. Make sure that it's yours too.    Here are some common issues that we see here at CARSTAR Robert's Auto Repair that require brake repair and service:   General wear: Over time, the brake pads wear down. Your braking system works hard for you every day. Because of their regular use, take the time to have your brake pads checked every six months or when you suspect a problem. Things to look out for include squeaking, grin ... read more

Before you hit the road and head out for Thanksgiving travel, make sure to take the time to prepare for your trip. One of the most important things to do that is often overlooked is some simple preventive maintenance. You want to be prepared for the road ahead and that can help decrease the likelihood of getting stranded or worse. Here’s a short list of some of the things you can do to be prepared:  Replace worn out wiper blades Check your tire pressure regularly Also check tread depth, wear, and for anything that’s penetrated a tire Keep your gas tank at least half full  Check to make sure your rear window defroster is working Have your vehicle serviced before long drives Have an updated safety/emergency kit Keep your eye on the weather. Remember that even here on the coast, the weather can surprise us. Even more so if you’re heading inland and through any mountain passes. This will help you stay prepared and ready for the unexpected. If you are head ... read more

  Fuel efficiency can easily start with your tires. When we head into the colder months, even though we live in a temperate climate, it still affects your tires and your fuel efficiency. In general, the colder weather can greatly affect your vehicle’s fuel economy. It takes longer for your​ engine to warm up and reach its best fuel consumption temperature.  When the weather changes, make sure you regularly check the air pressure in your tires because they fluctuate with the weather. When the air pressure is just right, you’ll get the most out of your tires and your fuel efficiency will improve.  When you are looking for more ways to improve fuel efficiency, try these suggestions: Whenever possible, park in the warmest place. If you have an option to park in a garage, do so. Any shelter will help with warmth.  Even on cold days, don’t warm up your car too much. The longer you idle, the less fuel-efficient your car. Combine your trips. Planning a ... read more

Keep Your Headlights Clear: Why Polishing Your Headlight Lenses Matters for Safety When it comes to maintaining our vehicles, there are often a few things that can easily be overlooked. While most drivers remember to check their oil or brakes, headlight lenses often go unnoticed. The headlights themselves are hard to miss, but the lenses covering them? Not so much. Yet, these lenses are exposed to constant wear and tear from the road, including bugs, UV rays, dirt, and gravel, which can cloud or yellow them over time. Why Clear Lenses Are ImportantClean headlight lenses are crucial for your safety. Over time, UV rays react with the polycarbonate material of your lenses, causing them to become cloudy and yellow. This reduces the amount of light your headlights can project, lowering your nighttime visibility. When your visibility decreases, your safety on the road is compromised. Imagine driving down a poorly lit road with foggy lenses—it’s a risk you sh ... read more

Just like you would listen to your child or your pet if they weren’t feeling well, take the time to listen to your vehicle. Know the regular sounds it makes so that when something is amiss, you’ll recognize it as an issue that needs to be addressed.  The longer you ignore a weird sound or check engine light, the more serious (and expensive!) the problem can become. When you receive regular preventive maintenance, that can help you stay ahead of issues too. The following is a shortlist of the sounds that are telling you it’s time to see the pros at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair in Monterey! Squealing or grinding noise when you apply pressure to the brakes. That could mean worn out brakes pads or worse. The grinding noise could mean you’re down to metal and that’s never good. Stay safe and have that taken care of ASAP!  Ticking or tapping noises coming from the engine could mean that you are low on oil or that your engine has lost ... read more

Some people just can’t help themselves when it comes to decorating their cars for Halloween. And even if we aren’t one of those people, most of us certainly enjoy seeing what others have done. It’s fun to see a car that’s all dressed up and ready for some trick-or-treating. Take a look at what we’ve spotted that are easy ways to dress up your car for this Halloween… or maybe for year-around fun! Just click on the photo and it will take you to the Amazon page so you can start dressing up YOUR car!     ... read more

Americans place a high value on their cars. It represents freedom and status and allows us to show off ait about who we are. If you love your car and want to keep it running at optimum performance levels for as long as possible, or you simply want to get the best gas mileage possible, you’ll want to make preventive maintenance a priority. Here are a few basic maintenance and cleaning tips to keep your car loving you as much as you love your car:   Preventive maintenance pays off in the short term and the long run. Some of it you can easily do yourself and some you’ll find helpful to have a trained, qualified auto mechanic with the skills and equipment to do the job right. Listen to your car and get to know the regular noises it makes so you will know when something is off-kilter. Also, get to know what is in your owner’s manual and use it as a guide for staying on top of your preventive maintenance.    Here are some of the simple checks and procedur ... read more

  When you need quality auto repair services, whether it’s for the outside body or what lays under the hood, you’ll want to turn to a reputable shop you can trust. It can be scary to leave your vehicle with just any shop and that’s why CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair has worked so hard to earn a solid reputation for not only quality workmanship, but for also delivering the very best in customer service experiences. We are here for you and it shows in all that we do.  The entire team at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair follows up on our mission to ease your worries and help to decrease the stress around having your vehicle worked on to bring it back to its original splendor or simply help you get the most out of it in a way that you remain safe. We work on gaining and keeping your trust from the moment you drive onto our property and well beyond the moment you pull away. It’s a lifelong endeavor and one we take seriously. Th ... read more

For many of us, some of our very best friends are furry and have four legs and we don’t like to leave them behind. Traveling with Fido can be wonderful. It can also be challenging. When we plan ahead and remember that they have needs too, it usually can be a lovely harmonious experience.  Take breaks: Every couple of hours to take a potty break and stretch your legs and theirs.  Hydrate: They need to stay hydrated just like you do. It doesn’t require fancy expensive bowls off of Amazon. Simple goes a long way and water rules. Seatbelts: Seatbelts for all! As much as seat belts keep you safe, they do that for Fido too. They can also prevent Fido from turning into a projectile and that would be terrible for you both.  Fido-friendly places to stay: You might be surprised just how many places are open to Fido staying with you. Doesn’t even require you to sneak him in under the cover of darkness. Check out https://www.bri ... read more

Whether you are a new car-owner or you’ve been driving the roads of Monterey and beyond, there are a few things that are important for all vehicle owners to know about and have on hand. You don’t want to get caught unaware and you certainly do want to get the most out of your vehicle even if you only paid $500 for the one you’re driving right now! It doesn’t take much effort or a lot of money to stay ahead of the curve.   Simple preventive maintenance. You don’t have to be a trained mechanic to handle the most basic preventive maintenance practices. Regularly check your basic fluids: oil, brake fluid, antifreeze, and windshield wiper fluid. Checking tires regularly is another simple preventive maintenance activity that can save you money and keep you safe. Look for wear and tear, check tread depth, and check the air pressure. When your tires are in good shape, your car grips the road the way it was intended and it helps you maximize your gas mileage ... read more

When you’re driving around Monterey, or anywhere else for that matter, it’s important that you can stop when you too and in a timely manner. It’s easy to let brakes go and to keep pushing off getting them taken care of because we always think we can get just a little bit more out of them. We often worry that it’s going to be an expense that we don’t want to have to prioritize right now. The thing is, though, that your brakes are often your first line of defense out on the road and it’s never worth risking your life or the lives of others. So whether you're a race car driver or just an average driver, it's never a good idea to let your brakes get to the smokin' stage! Watch out for these signs and don’t wait to have them looked at by a trusted professional: Squishy pedal Squeaking while braking or even sometimes when baking up Pedal bouncing while coming to a stop off of the freeway (or any significant speed) Pedal going to ... read more

  Even the most proactive vehicle owner can find themselves dealing with a car that’s overheated. It’s true that if you stay on a regular preventive maintenance schedule, not only will you save yourself money in the long run, you’ll significantly decrease the chances of ending up broken down on the side of the road.     Regardless, if it ever happens to you, make sure you know what to do to minimize the damage that’s already been done. The worst thing you can do is to keep driving it like nothing's wrong.    Your best bet is to pull over immediately. The more you drive after it overheats, the more extensive the damage. Even so, stay safe and pull over in a good location and turn off the engine. Don’t be in a hurry to open the hood. Wait until it’s completely cooled down. You may not be able to see that on your temperature gauge on the dash, so just don’t rush.  Pull out your owner’s manual if you&r ... read more

At Robert’s Collision & Repair in Monterey, it’s well known that we are passionate about the work we do, whether it’s detailing, auto body, or auto repair and service. We love it all! But did you know that we also truly enjoy the work we do when we service hybrids? Anything that supports minimizing our carbon footprint, we support! We also recognize that while it is the future, the future is now and we are committed to staying on top of whatever we need to in order to continue to provide our customers with the very best in service under the hood and across the counter.  Another fun aspect about hybrids is they have two separate power systems. They also combine the positive aspects of both gasoline and electric powered vehicles. Aerodynamics and a light body add to their ability to expertly maximize fuel efficiency. It’s not just Toyota in the hybrid game anymore: Ford, Chevy, Hyundai, Honda, and the list is quite long.  It’s also not just l ... read more

Summer months we tend to think of as the safer time of year to drive, but it’s actually when most accidents happen. Because we think it’s safer, we tend to take more risks and driving conditions for granted. We are less likely to leave enough space between us and the car in front of us and more likely to speed. There are many ways, however, we can reduce the likelihood of an accident.   A lot of it is common sense, but we all know that it’s not a bad thing to be reminded of even some of the most obvious ones:     Don’t drive distracted: this means no texting, no phone chatting, don’t look up your next destination on your GPS, no eating, no searching for your favorite radio station. Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle ahead of you. Follow the 3-second rule under normal driving condition, giving yourself a full 3 seconds between you and the car ahead. During wet or frosty times, or when pulling a trailer, give yourself at l ... read more

We do live in a close-to-perfect-weather part of the world, but there is still a transition into summer every year. We put away our sweaters and pull out our shorts and summer dresses. Even though our summer preparations are not as intense as some other parts of our country, there are still action items we like to cross off our to-do lists when the weather gets warmer. It can be easy to forget about the needs of our vehicles as we go into summer, but it’s something we shouldn’t forget.   Summer means warmer weather and this also means a change in tire pressure simply because of the change in the weather. Definitely check the pressure, but also take the time to check for wear and tear as well as tread depth. Rotate those ties regularly too and don’t forget about the care of your spare as well. No one wants to deal with a flat without a spare. When your tires are in good health, you get the best gas mileage and you’ll have the most control of your car as you ... read more

May is the month for the Monaco Grand Prix. This is one of three races around the world that constitutes the Triple Crown of Motorsports. The other two are the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Monaco Grand Prix is a spectacular event that is unique in so many ways. It began in 1929 and is comprised of roadways in Monte Carlo and La Condamine. Many spectators view the race from yachts on the harbor and the racing scene extends well into the night with glamorous all night partying.   Its tight turns and tunnel force drivers to shift more than 50 times in a single lap. This is why pit strategy becomes so important in this race. It’s not just about the power of the car or even the acumen of the driver; the pit crew can make or break who crosses with the checkered flag.   In the earlier years of the race, safety regulations were not in place and it was common for drivers to run into walls, buildings, and even a couple of them landed in the Mediterranea ... read more

While Monterey is definitely one of the most amazing cities in the country, it's still nice to get away once in a while and enjoy other beautiful spots not too far away. Spring is upon us and it's a great time for a road trip.   Before embarking on your journey, we would love to see you at Robert's Collision & Repair to help you best prepare your car for a trip. This can help keep you from finding yourself stranded on the side of the road and putting a damper on your vacation.     First destination, Malibu! Take I-5 southbound along the coast and visit a classic California city that offers fantastic views and lots to do. Stopping points include visiting Pepperdine University, Paradise Cove, and Malibu Creek State Park. If you want to experience some of the most beautiful beaches in California, check out one of the dozen beaches Malibu has to offer including Leo Carillo beach. Regardless of your length of stay, most folks never run out of things to do i ... read more

When we look around at all of the Prius’ on the roads around Monterey, they are nothing to get too excited about. The good news is that the auto manufacturing industry recognizes that the move away from gasoline-powered vehicles is imminent. What that means for us, the consumer, is that the further the industry dives into electric the more choices we have. Hybrids and fully electric vehicles are competing on every level even in the supercar arena.  Whether you want to go really, really fast or you are simply interested in getting to the market while leaving the least carbon footprint possible, you have choices. Let’s take a look at what’s expected in 2020: The 2020 Pininfarina PF0   If you are looking in the 7-figure range, the 2020 Pininfarina PF0 might just be the ticket. With 1,500 - 2,000 HP it’s going to get you off the starting line to 60 seconds in under 2 seconds. It maxes out around 250 MPH and as long as you aren’t going full thrott ... read more

Woo-hoo! Winter is finally over, and Spring is here with Summer just around the corner. April is your vehicles favorite month because it’s all about getting pampered for upcoming adventures and trips.  National Car Car Month is to remind and encourage you to bring your vehicle in and fix any issues that you have been putting off since winter. Yes, that means it’s time to take care of that rattle sound when accelerating or that screeching noise you’re hearing when you break. If you put off a problem for too long it could worsen and cause other issues, you don’t want that to happen as the weather finally gets nice.  Winter hazards are over, and Spring ones are coming. You should get your tires and brakes checked and replaced if needed. Spring showers can cause the roads to get very wet and slick, you want to be able to stop without sliding or hydroplaning. You should also replace your windshield wipers and put a layer of synthetic hydrophobic product ... read more

Flying cars aren’t just for Harry Potter and his friends. When it comes to the future, we don’t always know what it holds, but we do know that flying automobiles will become something real instead of something that’s been relegated to the imagination. From flying delivery trucks to airbuses… okay, so it won’t exactly look like Fed-Ex and UPS trucks with wings, but you will have to look to the skies to see them coming. A lot of the technology being developed focuses on automation as well as the bigger issues our current modes of transportation presents. Boeing is working on numerous technologies that will lead to automated ways to get around in a ride-sharing capacity. So not only will we be flying around when we want to get somewhere, but it won’t even (necessarily) be us doing the flying.   Big companies like Boeing aren’t the only ones diving into the world of aerial travel; plenty of do-it-yourselfers are hitting it hard too. F ... read more

If you’re like me, you don’t pay as much attention to the needs of your car as often as you should. For most of us, we know what we like in the way of auto aesthetics and we want to get to where we need to go with as little challenge as possible. Well, that’s all fine and dandy, but if we refuse to provide our vehicle with some much-needed love, then it might simply refuse to love us in return and leave us stranded on the roadside. It’s not just about a pretty face and just like humans, if we don’t take care of what’s under the hood, the results will not be kind to us.  Yes, cars these days can often go much longer than the olden-days-recommended 3,000 miles, but they still need changing once in awhile. Oil is the lubricant your engine needs in order to run. Period. Without it, your engine will seize up and you’ll be looking at either a seriously ridiculous repair bill or you will need to buy a new (to you) car. Preferably one whose owner ... read more

Those loyal to the brand would ask the question, why NOT drive a Mercedes-Benz? The automobile marque first appeared in 1926 although the history goes back to the first petrol-powered car receiving its patent in 1886. Karl Benz created it and Bertha Benz finance the venture. The slogan for the brand is “the best or nothing” and it really does show in every effort they make in design, technology, and drivability. So why else would one want to own and drive a Mercedes-Benz? To start with, did you know that driving a Mercedes Benz will make you live longer? Okay, well that might be a bit of an exaggeration, but at the same time, think about this: Mercedes Benz designs cars to make your life a nicer place to be. They are beautifully designed and engineered in a way to help you relax behind the wheel. So, in reality then, maybe driving a Merc really DOES help you live longer.  You drive a Mercedes because you appreciate the finer things in life. You like to look good as y ... read more

  The Valentine season is upon us and it is not reserved for humans alone. Sometimes we love our cars more than most humans we know and they give us love that simply cannot be offered from a guy or a gal. Who knows what I’m talking about? The feel of the steering wheel under our grip, the way we mold into the seats as she hugs a tight curve, the power we experience as we navigate our way through 17 Mile Drive… these are the gifts our car gives us every day. How can we reciprocate, you ask?   Take your car out for a drive. Hit 17 Mile Drive and let ‘er rip down our beautiful coastline. There’s no better feeling for you and your car than hitting the open road. We live in such a beautiful part of the world and there are so many wonderful places to explore right here in our own backyard. So, fill up your gas tank, check your fluids and your tire’s air pressure and hit the road for a freedom-filled afternoon or pedal-to-the-metal fun! A ... read more

As we move into the winter season, even though we live in a weather-wonderful location, it’s still important to have our vehicle ready for winter. Whether we stay on the roads of Monterey or head up into the snowy mountains to ski, snowshoe, or spend time with friends and family, it’s essential that we are well prepared, and the team at Robert’s Collision & Repair want to help keep you safe this holiday season. Check all fluids and make sure they are appropriate for the weather you’re heading into. Proper tire pressure and wear are critical whether you're driving on wet roads or heading into the snow and ice. Inspect your tires before venturing out on a winter wonderland expedition and have chains in case you are heading up a mountain.  Have your battery checked out, so you don’t stall out while heading to your mothers-in-law for a holiday dinner… unless of course, you WANT that to happen.  Brakes: have them inspected to help m ... read more

Okay...if you’re going to drive a BMW or even TALK about them, then you’d better get this straight right away, or you’re just going to look silly. If you are talking about a BMW motorcycle, then yes, go ahead and refer to them as Beemers or Beamers. HOWEVER, if you are talking about your BMW automobile, please for the love of the brand, call it a BIMMER. Yes, that’s right. B. I. M. M. E. R. Bimmer it is! Whew. Now that we have that out of the way let’s dive into a brief history of the Bimmer. You want to seem in-the-know at your next cocktail party, don’t you? For instance, did you know that the origin of BMW is traced back to three different German companies: Rapp Motorenwerke, Bayerische Flugzeugwerke, and Automobilwerk Eisenach. The first engine they produced was the Illa aircraft engine known for its good fuel economy and high-altitude performance. The BMW came from Bayerische Motoren Werke when it was renamed such in 1917. Even though the first ... read more

It’s a little hard to believe that we’ve already started the slide into 2019. Even crazier to think about the electric slide the auto industry is making. While automakers aren’t making much money on their hybrids quite yet, the auto manufacturing industry is investing a lot into this technology because they know it’s the wave of the future. Ford is investing $700 million into it’s Flat Rock, Michigan plant and canceling the plans on the $1.6 billion new plant in Mexico. This will also bring about 700 new jobs in Flat Rock.   By 2020, Ford plans to introduce a hybrid version of the Mustang with power that promises to compare to a V-8. Ford plans to launch a hybrid F-150 (without losing any power from its gas model) and a small SUV alongside the Mustang in 2020 with a plan of introducing another 13 hybrid models over the next five years. In 2021 Ford will debut an autonomous model for the ride-sharing market as well as hybrid pursuit-rated police cars ... read more

Are you overpaying for your auto insurance? With the rising costs of living, every bit of savings counts, especially when it comes to something as essential as car insurance. At CARSTAR Robert's Collision in Monterey, we believe in not only providing top-notch collision repair services but also helping our customers make smart financial decisions. By following a few strategic tips, you can significantly reduce your auto insurance premiums and ensure you're not paying more than you should. In this blog, we’ll walk you through some practical ways to lower your auto insurance costs without compromising on coverage. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a new car owner, these tips can make a big difference. Schedule a consultation with us at CARSTAR Robert's Collision to ensure your vehicle is always in the best hands. Maximize Your Savings with These Auto Insurance Tips When it comes to saving money on auto insurance, the process can ... read more

We all love fun facts, don't we? Today, we thought it would be cool to share some fun facts about cars. Fact #1  Did you know that the very first car to hit the road was a Benz? No, really. It was. German Inventor Karl Benz bought that vision to fruition in 1886 (well, the first time it hit the road was New Year’s Eve 1879). It was the first stationary gasoline engine and was a one-cylinder two-stroke unit. One of the first cars designed and built for the masses was our very own Model T manufactured by the Ford Motor Company. Most of us already know that fun fact, but did you know these? Fact #2  The world's record for replacing a car engine is 45 seconds, completed on a Ford Escort in 1985. Hmmm… do think they got it all locked down right?? Fact #3  Cruise control was developed by an annoyed blind man. He was annoyed with his friend, who while they were on horseback, would speed up when listening and slow down when talking. Ralph Teetor wanted co ... read more

August is a favorite month for road trips, and since there are so many beautiful and scenic destinations here on the west coast, it’s no wonder, so many of us hit the road over the summer months. There are some tips to keep in mind while road-tripping that should help you stay safe and stay on the way. First of all, cars that are 10 years old or older tend to break down twice as often as younger cars and are 4 times more likely to need a tow. That doesn’t mean you can’t successfully take your ‘05 Subaru for a trip up the 101, but that alone should encourage you to do some prep work.  The top reasons for needing a tow are electrical system issues, a dead battery, problems with the engine cooling system, and tires that can’t just be replaced roadside. Much of a pre-trip inspection is simple: check all fluids, tire pressure and wear, your battery, all lights, and make sure your wipers are working well too. It’s also a good idea to have your brakes ... read more

While we are incredibly fortunate to live in a place where the sea breezes help to keep us more relaxed than most of other California cities, it’s still all relative, and on a late August afternoon, our vehicles can get roasting. After only one hour in the sun, the average auto interior is 43 degrees hotter than the outside temperature. Youch!  Your car’s color contributes to the interior temperature. The darker colors absorb more heat while a white or silver vehicle can be about 10 degrees cooler. If your married to your sleek darker colors, consider a solar reflective paint that will help keep things cooler by up to 6 degrees. Okay, so you're saying that those choices are too late for THIS August, and you want to know what you can do right now! Some of these are obvious, so bear with me: Park under a tree or in a garage. (Any shade helps!) Purchase a solar-powered fan (although reviews seem to be split). Basic car shades can reduce the interior temp by 15 deg ... read more

  Hard to believe that summer is over and it’s time for school to start yet again. Whether we have children of our own in the local school system, we are all affected by the change in driving in and around schools. Not only is it a hefty fine if we get caught speeding in a school zone, but it’s also dangerous. A child is most likely to be hit by a car close to their school… much more so than any other location. There are a few ways we can avoid a steep fine and keep the children in our community safe while getting to and from school every day.  Whether or not the yellow lights are flashing, if we see children near the road, it’s best if we slow down. They often are distracted by their friends and most kids these days are walking around with phones in their hands just like their parents. The more we keep our own distractions to a minimum (hands off our phones for starters!), the safer we keep THEM.  Having patience can go a long way too. Not bei ... read more

There is so much going on in the emerging ride industry. From mobile apps to self-driving cars to bigger carpooling platforms, the automotive industry is certainly changing. As our big cities get bigger and parking spaces can come at a premium, we tend to look for more alternative options. The green movement also compels us forward in making better choices when it comes to getting where we need to be. Both to cut down on energy consumption as well as simply using fewer overall resources required in the automotive manufacturing realm. The Grab app currently serves mostly Asia, but is quickly moving into other regions, the U.S. included. It is an app used to hail a ride, whether it’s a tax, Uber, or Lyft. It’s also a delivery app, currently offering food options but with a plan to expand. Right now, the Grab app in the United States is limited: 200 cities and a partnership with Lyft. Worldwide, however, Grab reports more than 6 million rides a day with more than 100 million ... read more

Did you know that the most likely months to have your car stolen are July & August? In the U.S., nearly every 44 seconds someone falls prey to an auto thief. Close to 50% of those thefts could be prevented by us, the auto owner, by following a few simple rules. A lot of these seem obvious, but since we never think that it could happen to us, it’s good to be reminded!   Don’t leave your keys in the ignition or cup holder. Even if you have a keypad entry, a car thief won’t hesitate to break a window if they see your keys waiting for them. Know where your keys are always. The first question a police officer will ask you is, “Do you have your keys?” Don’t leave a hide-a-key somewhere on your vehicle. Car thieves are onto that trick! Lock your car. Even if it’s in your driveway in the safest of neighborhoods. Roll up your windows and secure the top if you are lucky enough to have a convertible. It might be hot when you first get in you ... read more

Buying a new car, even if it’s just new to you, is a huge deal. So many choices these days and it can be difficult to narrow down the field as well as the decision of who to trust. The better prepared you are before walking onto a lot or someone’s driveway, the more power you have to negotiate and the more confidence you will exude. Take your time and do your research. It will serve you well! Here’s a list of the top 8 things to do to prepare for your next automobile purchase:   Get your financing in order. Whether it’s your local credit union or nationwide bank, it’s important to know your buying power. It’s also important to know what kind of monthly payments you can truly afford that will work within your budget. Also, listen to what the local dealership has to offer because sometimes they really can deliver the best financing option. Define what’s really important to you ahead of time. That list is going to be different for a teenag ... read more

For those drivers possessed of a lead foot, the speeding ticket is an annoying—and expensive—fact of motoring life. And they’ve been around for a long time. Englishman Walter Arnold has the distinction of the being the first motorist to receive a ticket. On January 28, 1896, he was cited for driving at the breakneck pace of eight mph in a two-mph zone. That set him back one shilling. The first American was Jacob German, a New York cabbie. He got nailed for zooming along at 12 mph on Lexington Avenue. He didn’t get off as easily as Arnold though: he had to serve time in the hoosegow. Transportation departments all over the world have devised many ways to keep drivers from exceeding the speed limit, including new, high-tech methods. Some municipalities utilize automated radar units that capture car’s license numbers, register its speed and send the driver a nastygram in the mail. Doesn’t seem quite fair. Several places around the world have come up w ... read more

The Hidden Dangers of Driving on Empty: Why Keeping a Full Tank is a Safety Must It happens to the best of us. You’re on the road, tackling a busy day, and suddenly that “Low Fuel” warning light blinks on. It might be a bright light, a beep, or just a needle hovering over “E.” Whatever the signal, it’s easy to think, “I’ll just make it a few more miles.” But is it worth the risk? While some drivers may consider a low fuel tank a minor inconvenience, running on empty can actually pose significant safety risks—not only for your vehicle but for everyone on the road. The Risks of Running Low on Fuel     •    Stranded in Unsafe Situations: One of the most immediate dangers of running on low fuel is the risk of being stranded unexpectedly. Whether it’s a dark stretch of highway, an isolated backroad, or an area with low cell service, running out of gas can leave yo ... read more

Thankfully, on the central California coast, we enjoy a temperate climate. While we do experience some heavy wind and rain events that cause localized trauma--like the devastating  Big Sur storms of 2017 that led to that area being effectively isolated for months to the rains and resulting mudslides in the Santa Barbara area last month--we don’t get the kind of deep freeze that regularly occurs in the midwest and east coast of the US. But you still need to winterize your vehicles. Wet, slippery roads combined with colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours mean we you keep our cars in tip-top shape. And it’s even more vital if you’re planning a trip to the mountains for some fun in the snow. Here are some tips on how to make sure you don’t get stranded in a storm:   Make sure your vehicle is up to date on the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil, coolant, brake, transmission, windshield wiper and steering fluids C ... read more