Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

Driving in the rain can be one of the most challenging driving situations you can encounter. When it is rainy out, there is a higher chance of an accident. No matter where you live, you will encounter driving in the rain at some point. Knowing exactly how your car handles in wet conditions and how to adjust your driving in limited visibility situations will help you stay safe and alert on the road. First of all, if you are not feeling comfortable driving, don't! If you can wait out the rain, that is your best bet. Slick conditions become dangerous conditions in a hurry; you are valuable to your loved ones, so stay safe by making safe decisions. Have you checked your tires lately? If you have uneven tread wear, it is a good idea to have your tires rotated. Many of the tire stores will rotate your tires for free, air them up and tell you if you require any maintenance and how much life is left in your tires. Next, check your headlights, taillight, and make sure your windshield wipe ... read more

Did you know that Toyota's produce more than 10 million vehicles each year? The Toyota Motor Corporation is and has been a leader of sales in Hybrid and electric automobiles, which keeps them on the leading edge of technology and demand by the people. By building cars under different brands, such as Hino, Lexus, Daihatsu, Ranze, Toyota anchored its foothold as a multinational conglomerate throughout the world. Founded in 1937 by visionary Kiichiro Toyoda, early designs were modeled after the Chevy and Dodge Power Wagon. During WWII, Toyota was contracted to build trucks for the imperial Japanese army, which once the war was lost, both the country and Toyota were thrust into economic instability. Finally, in 1947, Toyota built its first passenger car, which helped bring them through. In the 1950s, Toyota began importing vehicles to the United States and was also contracted to build cars for the Korean war. By the 1960s, the affordable Toyota cars became popular across the country ... read more

  Knowing you can safely stop at a short distance is vital to safety on the road. Your brakes are one of the most essential and critical safety features on your vehicle.  Braking systems made up of a series of mechanical parts and sensors on modern cars, each piece plays an important role, and all work together to ensure sufficient stopping power.    You are most likely familiar with some of the parts of your braking system. There are several components, such as a brake pedal, and lesser-known parts such as the master cylinder, brake lines, fluid, pads, rotors, or drums. Older vehicles came with drum brakes; however, these days, vehicles are equipped with rotors, which reduces stress and stopping distance. All of these parts within your braking system work together as a team. They are activated by the brake pedal to slow or stop your vehicle. Driving a car with bad brakes can be a harrowing white-knuckle experience, especially when driving on our freeway system ... read more

What is OEM insurance?   Updated Blog 1/8/23: When it comes to securing the right auto insurance policy, many factors demand your consideration. One crucial aspect often overlooked is the choice between Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket parts. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the significance of OEM insurance, shedding light on its benefits, alternatives, and how it can impact your overall auto insurance experience. Understanding OEM Insurance OEM insurance stands as a vital add-on to your standard auto insurance policy. It ensures that, in the unfortunate event of an accident, only OEM parts will be used to restore your vehicle. These parts are specifically crafted by your car's manufacturer, adhering to stringent safety and quality standards. Opting for OEM insurance provides a guarantee that your car will be brought back to its factory specifications, maintaining its original integrity. Requesting OEM Parts After an Accident In the aftermat ... read more

Women should become auto mechanics if that is what their heart’s desire. There is no better time than right now to make this happen. There is a considerable shortage of qualified technicians and service advisors. That leaves the doors wide open for women to step in and take their place in this industry. With only 2% of the auto repair workforce checking the female box, it’s just a matter of time before that number significantly increases. Women mechanics work just as hard as the men do, tend to have better attention to detail than most men, and their communication skills are often much better than their male counterparts. These are generalizations, but you get the gist. There is room, and a need, for women in this industry. Any woman who is interested in becoming an auto mechanic or technician should pursue a career in the industry. There is an old stereotype that the automotive industry is a "man's world" and while much of that still rings true, more and m ... read more

We may not be completely into spring, but groundhog Punxsutawney Phil said spring should be in full force about now. What that means for us here in beautiful Monterey is that it’s time for some spring cleaning!   It’s time to change your car’s air filter for one. Your owner’s manual probably says every 12,000 to 15,000, but if you have problems with dust and pollen you might want to do that sooner. Keep the cabin of your car free from bad smells as well as things that might make ya sneeze. Achoo! Bless you!  It’s also good for your engine. Your air filter holds dual responsibilities in keeping your interior clean but also keeps the debris and dirt out of your engine. When your air filter has broken down, it lets in the things that can lead to real problems for your engine and no one wants that! Give your car a good washing! Use a little white vinegar and water on your wheels to get them sparkly clean. Another good trick for your paint jo ... read more

Updated Blog 1/22/24 Our previous discussions covered the basics that every car owner should be familiar with. Now, let's delve into some advanced tips that can genuinely make a difference in maximizing the lifespan and performance of your cherished vehicle. Timing Belt Replacement: The timing belt plays a crucial role in synchronizing the engine's components. Over time, it can wear out, leading to potential engine damage. Consult your car's manual to determine the recommended replacement interval and ensure timely changes. Battery Maintenance: Modern vehicles come equipped with advanced electrical systems, and a well-maintained battery is essential for their proper functioning. Regularly check the battery terminals for corrosion, and consider testing the battery's voltage to anticipate any potential issues. Brake System Inspection: Your car's brakes are a critical safety component. Beyond routine brake pad replacements, periodically inspect the entire brake syst ... read more

As much as we may not want to ever have to change a tire, it’s a really important life skill, much like learning how to swim or even ride a bike. Imagine getting a flat tire on a secluded strand of highway with no other motorists in sight and no way to get a signal on your phone. Yikes! No good.  Make sure you have: A spare tire and check its viability on occasion A jack Gloves Lug wrench Flashlight with extra batteries Okay…. Now you’re ready to get started: Expose lug nuts.. You may have to remove the hubcap or wheel cover first. Do NOT take off the lug nuts, but use the lug wrench to loosen them. Put the jack under the car (your owner’s manual will show you where and how to use your jack) and expand it until your vehicle is about 6 inches off the ground. Make sure that YOU are NEVER under the car! NOW is the time to finish unscrewing the lug nuts and get them off there! Gently but firmly pull it toward you and set it aside. Align the spare w ... read more

Juggernauts… Mercedes-Benz and BMW are two of the biggest in the automotive industry and to say that each has loyal followings is an understatement. To say they have a cult-like following is more on track. Each one wields its magic that has the power to draw you in for life. Throughout automotive history, BMW has focused on delivering the ultimate driving experience while Mercedes-Benz espoused ultimate comfort. Both offer high on the luxury scale, and not many people on the planet would be embarrassed to pull up to one of their high school reunions in either one.  When it comes to safety, the brands are pretty well matched with specific models coming in with perfect 10s. JD Powers reports that the Mercedes E-Class and the BMW 2 Series and X1 hold onto to safety perfection. Performance, safety, reliability… all are close. Interiors… well, let’s talk comfort and luxury. While the Mercedes holds the highest rep for supreme comfort, it does not deliver on ... read more

There’s so much that goes into choosing the right mechanic and the right automotive repair shop. Don’t be afraid to get in there and ask questions. This is a big decision that will impact you (your wallet!) and the health and longevity of your vehicle. Protect yourself and your auto as much as possible by digging into some tough questions. And if the shop is uncomfortable answering your questions or doesn’t have the time to talk to you, that should be your answer right there. Here are some suggestions of questions to ask, but don’t be afraid to ask anything! Do you specialize in my make of vehicle? What certifications/training do your mechanics have? How much experience do they have? How much will the diagnostic cost? Do you have a warranty on parts and labor? If so, what are the details? Can you help me prioritize the work that needs to be done? Are there extra fees with any of your services? How do you communicate with me throughout the repair/service ... read more

Typically when we think of unsafe driving conditions, we think of winter driving. Yet the statics show that there are far more fatal accidents over the summer months, most likely due to people getting out on the road for vacations and an increase in road work. There’s a lot you can do, however, to minimize your risk of getting in an accident. A little bit of prevention can go a long way!   More teens on the road: Not only does this add to the sheer number of vehicles on the road, but also the number of inexperienced drivers makes for more reasons to proceed with caution. Encourage your teen to follow safe-driving practices such as no cell phones or eating while driving. Motorcycles, bikes, pedestrians: We are sharing the road with an increase in not just teenagers, but other folks wanting to take advantage of the sunshine. Give yourself 4 seconds behind a motorcycle and make sure to keep your sunglasses handy to that the glare won’t keep you from seeing cyclists a ... read more

Did you play with Legos as a kid? Millions of children around the world did, and some never outgrew their obsession with the building block toys. Originally introduced by the Lego Group, a Danish company founded by carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen, the design was repeatedly tweaked until it became the familiar system we know today in 1958. They are made from ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) polymer. All kinds of objects have been constructed with Legos. It truly is a toy whose fun potential is limited only by its users’ imaginations. Here’s a recent example, a life-size Toyota Camry built entirely from Lego bricks…an astounding 500,000 of them:   This project took 900 hours in eight weeks to complete and is astounding in its detail. It weighs around 4,000 pounds, even more than the actual steel car upon which it is m ... read more

Once upon a time, police departments were content to equip their officers with patrol cars derived from family sedans. The Ford Crown Victoria was the top seller for many years. The first police patrol car was an electric wagon that protected the streets of Akron, Ohio in the late 1800s. Interesting how things come full circle: many 21st-century police departments-including Denver and Los Angeles--are now using modified Tesla S electric vehicles to patrol their streets and highways. Some fun facts about police cars: Motorcycles were used before cars. The change to cars came about because the bad guys were using cars. The first Chevrolet Camaro police car was owned by the Azusa, California PD. A double-decker bus was used as a police bus for a time by the Belchertown, Massachusetts Police Department. In Tulsa, Oklahoma, a Cadillac Escalade police car with a sign on the back that reads “This used to be a drug dealer’s car. Now it’s ours.   Today, the top-sel ... read more

  Some drivers get antsy during long drives. Boredom and low energy play a big role in this. Luckily there are ways to keep us comfortable when we’re on the road for miles.   1. Cruise control   When your speed is consistent you save money on fuel. Fewer stops to the gas station might give you some peace of mind. However, don’t forget to stop every few hours to stretch your legs.   2. Keep healthy snacks in the car   Staying away from sugar and fast food will keep your energy up and help you from avoiding a  stomach ache. Protein and fiber will give you a steady flow of energy. Nuts, berries, bananas, apples, carrots, and yogurt are smart choices.   3. Drink plenty of water   A poor mood and fatigue can be the result of dehydration. Have a travel bottle with you and fill it up every time you stop at a rest area.   4. Get a good night’s sleep.   Science has proven that driving tired is almost as danger ... read more

Automobiles in 2018 are safer than they've ever been. Technological advancements have made cars able to protect the people who drive them. Seatbelts, traction control, airbags, as well as more modern-day developments have also protected vehicle owners since they were implemented years ago. Automobile manufacturers have been adding even more features that offer safety. This includes semi-autonomous lane departure warnings, active emergency braking, and rear-view cameras. Automakers have even started to make pop-up hoods that protect pedestrians.   Here are 3 of the safest passenger automobiles in the United States in 2018:   SUBARU IMPREZA This redesigned all-wheel-drive is secure and stable on the road and also has many safety features. The Impreza has automatic reverse braking, a rearview camera, and blind spot detection. Due to the high ratings for its crash prevention system, collision protection, and headlights, the Impreza was the recent winner of the Insurance ... read more

Merry Christmas from everyone at Robert’s Collision and Repair. We recently ran across this story and thought you might like to see what happens when a man who loves cars trades in his BMW to surprise his wife with a Ford F-150 for Christmas. Just tap this video link.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rs1-BKeYYMg   Nothing says “I love you” quite like a new car parked in the driveway on Christmas morning. If you're planning on getting your sweetheart something automotive for Christmas, be sure to come to Robert's Collision Repair to make certain the vehicle is properly serviced. Whether the car is new or used, the Robert's Collision & Repair team will be happy to help the vehicle perform at its best. Merry Christmas, everyone!   When your vehicle requires auto repair and scheduled maintenance, we invite you to visit Robert’s Collision & Repair at 234 Ramona Avenue in ... read more

$50 Off for repairs totaling $300 or more in Labor Expenses. Offer valid through December 21, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   During the holidays, we appreciate that a big chunk of your budget is spent on those you love. If the safety of your loved ones is important to you, we encourage you to take advantage of our big December savings offer: $50 Off for Repairs Totaling $300 or more in Labor Expenses.   You see, we understand that you work hard for your money, and that’s why we like to offer specials that help you keep some of that hard-earned cash. Since you may not know what repairs tend to total $300 or more in labor, here are some ideas to consider:   Strut Replacement Major 30K, 60K, 90K, or 120K mile service Engine Rebuilds New Tires   If you’ve been putting major repairs on the back burner, waiting until you see a price break or until you receive a much-needed Christmas bonus, this is the perfect ... read more

Going on road trips is all a matter of perspective. You can look at it as boring or as an adventure! Music makes everything better! Having the right tunes for a road trip is essential to make the hours go faster. Perhaps you’ve always had dreams of being a rock star. This is your chance! A road trip paired with inspiring melodies and lyrics is a great way to bond with your passengers or belt it out at the top of your lungs with your family and friends in the car. The team at  Robert’s Collision & Repair wants your time on the road to be entertaining so we’ve compiled these 20 songs that are sure to be invigorating:   "LA Woman," The Doors "Rock Steady," Aretha Franklin "Going Down the Road Feelin' Bad," the Grateful Dead "Midnight Rider," Allman Brothers "I Get Around," Beach Boys Also, songs about cars. "Little Red Corvette," Prince "Given to Fly," Pearl Jam "The Bo ... read more

10% Off Labor for Car Battery Replacement. Offer valid through October 31, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   October is Car Care Month and that is why Robert’s Collision & Repair is offering the following special:  10% Off Labor for Car Battery Replacement.   With all the electronics and systems pulling power from the car battery, it’s no wonder that batteries die more quickly. Today’s automobile electrical systems are getting more intricate and are stressing the limits of current technology, but they are generally designed from the same principles used 30-plus years ago. The battery is the vehicle’s power storage device used to start the engine and help operate the electrical accessories installed on your car. Average battery life has become shorter as energy requirements have increased. Lifespan depends on usage, which now averages 6 months to 48 months, yet only 30% of all batteries actually reach t ... read more

At Robert’s Collisions & Repair, we’re proud to be ASE Certified. There are a lot of certifications and organizations out there in the automotive industry, serving to raise auto care across the nation up to a higher standard. ASE, or the National Institute for Automotive Excellence, is one of them. ASE has been up and running since 1972 as an independent, non-profit organization that certifies individual technicians and service advisors, not the auto shop as a whole. They grant certification based on tests, skill level, and the ethics and community involvement of each worker on a case by case basis. This means that, in order to be considered an ASE Certified location, you must have multiple mechanics and supervisors on site who are ASE Certified.   This system is very helpful across the board. For the technicians, it’s a way for them to show evidence of their skill and professionalism to potential employers. For shop managers, it can help them promote the ... read more

  One of the most important things to know as a driver is how to jump your car safely. At Robert’s Collision and Auto Repair, we consider it a very basic skill but important to do properly. It is inconvenient to be unable to jump your car on your own, but even worse to attempt to do so and misfire. So perhaps this seems like a silly reminder, but we consider safety to be more important than anything else. Here are some quick directions on how exactly to jump your car.   If you don’t already have a set of jumper cables in the car, then consider investing in some for your own ease. Sometimes college campuses and large businesses will have on-site assistance in case your car battery dies that you can borrow. For example, the Del Monte shopping center has a traffic patrol that has jumper cables for you if you need to use them. Track down a buddy or flag down a friendly stranger to jump your car from. Once you have your cables and a friend’s vehicle to ju ... read more

At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we hear about this particular issue very frequently. So from the experts, here are a couple reasons why your car might not be accelerating. Emergency Brake First things first, check if your emergency brake is on. This prevents you from moving at all, and it’s a pretty common mistake. Neutral Similarly, if your car is set in neutral, it may stay at a stand still just as with an emergency brake or roll away unintentionally. This is another easy mistake with a pretty easy solution. Electrical Issues This is not so much an easy solution. Electrical issues will require a maintenance professional to take a look at your car. Often, it has to do with the car misreading its own pollution error. Luckily, we know a great mechanic! (hint: it’s us!) Worn Timing Belt This simply means that you’ll need your timing belt repaired or replaced. As you accelerate, the whee ... read more

At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we’ve seen the whole range of car troubles! Here’s a handful of the most common problems that auto repair shops like us see. Our list here happens to also be backed by several studies done on auto repair too. If you’re having any trouble with any of these parts of your car, come see us!   10. Driver-Installed Add-Ons Often, when drivers install extras like alarm systems, radios, or wireless devices in their car, it will divert power from other necessary car systems and cause problems. It’s best to have these things installed at the store or at an auto shop to ensure this doesn’t become a problem.   9. Gaskets Although certainly not the most common culprit of automotive issues, improperly functioning gaskets can reduce the fuel efficiency of your car.   8. Ignition Coils These work together with spark plugs to get your car moving, and are not very driver-friendly when it comes to repairs an ... read more

10% Off Transmission Service Offer valid through November 30, 2016. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   For many car owners, transmissions are one of the most overlooked and oft forgotten elements of a vehicle. Why? We’ve been trained to change our oil, change our spark plugs, change our windshield wipers, etc., but we often forget to notice the transmission until the car won’t go.   To prepare your vehicle for the upcoming holiday shopping and road trips, we are offering the following November special:  10% Off Transmission Service.   Transmission service is important and here are four reasons why:   Transmission service prevents “lock up”. Lock up happens when your vehicle’s transmission gets so hot that your vehicle simply shuts down. Transmission service saves money in the long run. Changing your automatic transmission fluid when it turns black can help prevent most transmission problems f ... read more

Cars need a lot of maintenance to keep them up and running. From windshield wiper blades to tires, our cars require tons of TLC. One of the most vital aspects of our vehicle’s engine is its fluids. Luckily, it is quite simple to monitor these fluids. Most of the time, all you need to do is lift up your hood and have a look. Checking your vehicle’s fluids on a regular basis is guaranteed to save you time and money down the road. Which fluids should I check? Here are five of your engine’s fluids you should make a habit of checking: Engine Oil Check your oil once a month. Check out your owner’s manual to know when to have the oil replaced. Timeframes depend on the car. Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid should be checked monthly. It should be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Coolant Coolant should be checked twice yearly, before summer and before winter. It needs to be replaced every 2 to 3 years. Brake Fluid You should check this once a month. Brake fluid needs ... read more

Made out of heavy plastic paper, air filters are an impressive piece of technology. Air is allowed to pass through into your engine, but not pesky dust and debris. Think of an air filter as a shield. Air filters are considered an essential part of your car’s fuel supply system. A properly working air filter equates with an excellent fuel economy, and a damaged air filter equates with dirty gas. How often should I replace my air filter? This depends on your climate and driving conditions. If you spend a lot of time driving on dirty, dusty roads, you will need to replace your air filter more often. If you drive more often on paved roads, you can replace it less. However, here are a few guidelines to follow: Replace your air filter every other oil change. Replace your air filter once a year. Replace your air filter every 30,000 miles. By the way, air filters are not the only things that need to be changed or replaced periodically. Robert’s Collision & Repair is offerin ... read more

Antifreeze does not just protect against cold weather. The bright green liquid keeps our cars running soundly in warm temperatures too. Typically, antifreeze is used to protect your vehicle’s coolant system from freezing. Fortunately, we don’t have to worry about that in Monterey, but the uses of antifreeze do not stop there. Antifreeze is an invaluable tool. Consider these facts: Antifreeze is known to reduce galvanic corrosion in your engine. Galvanic corrosion causes parts of your engine to breakdown in your coolant system. In your coolant system, this type of corrosion causes the anode metal to disintegrate. In this situation, antifreeze is your savior. It guards against galvanic corrosion and is much more effective than traditional water. Antifreeze’s color alone can save your car. Green equals go. The bright green color of antifreeze lets you know your coolant system is leaking and is in need of repair. If this is the case, a green pool of antifreeze will appear underne ... read more

When you look at our services, you will see that Robert’s Auto Repair can do all the basic auto body, repair, and service work on all major vehicle brands. Over the years, we have done a handful of vintage cars and home-made kit cars, but for the most part, we stick to the major vehicle brands. Our specialty is to provide state-of-the art auto body repair and mechanical repair. We pride ourselves on our fast service and our abilities to get you back out on the road quickly. Though we are fast with our work, the quality of our work never suffers, and we stand by our workmanship with a guarantee. You can trust Roberts Auto Repair for complete auto body, repair, and maintenance services whenever your vehicle needs a it. We'll help you keep the cost of unexpected repairs down with regularly scheduled maintenance. Ask us about our complete preventive maintenance program for your vehicle.

Air filter maintenance is extremely important if you want to let your vehicle’s engine work optimally. Many car owners often complain about hard starting of the car and power loss, and this is mainly due to the problem with air filters. What the air filtration system in your vehicle does, is clean the outside air that comes into the vehicle prior to getting burned with the vehicle’s fuel. If the air that comes into the vehicle from the outside is not clean, it will cause your engine to become damaged. Recommended replacement intervals for air filters are now ranging between 15,000 and 75,000 miles. Fuel filter replacement intervals vary from ­between 20,000 miles to 150,000 miles, to “lifetime” in some applications. Modern fuel quality is so good that many import manufacturers leave the replacement interval to the technicians’ discretion. When you visit Robert’s Auto Repair for a regularly scheduled fuel filter or air filter replacement, we’ll let you know our recommendations for your ... read more

How frequently should you get your oil changed? What’s the difference between an oil change and a lube job with synthetic oil? When should you become concerned with filter replacement? These are common questions that vary with each vehicle make and model, as well as the driving style of each driver. Fortunately, the staff at Robert’s Auto Repair are knowledgeable about the lube, oil, and filter replacement requirements for each vehicle it services. Typically, an oil change / lube job is recommended every 3000 miles. Air filters are replaced at varying intervals, along with wiper blade replacement. When you visit Robert’s Auto Repair for a regularly scheduled lube, oil, and filter replacement, we’ll let you know our recommendations for your vehicle and consult with you before we complete the service. Need a lube, oil and filter replacement? Whatever the need, our staff at Robert’s Auto Repair will be happy to take care of your vehicle so that it may safely take care of you. We proudl ... read more

A properly tuned car, truck or SUV can improve your gas mileage and performance, and it also helps keep our environment greener. With today's gas prices, having your car inspected annually to determine if your vehicle could benefit from a complete tune-up is a great way to save money on gas, keep your car performing at its best, and have a longer lifespan. A complete tune-up service includes inspecting and adjusting all of the vehicle’s systems that contribute to efficient fuel combustion. How do you know when you need a tune-up service? If you keep track of your gas mileage and it worsens by 10% or more, it's time for a tune-up. Many drivers also seek a tune-up when experiencing any type of sluggish response from their vehicle. Need service, repair, and a complete tune-up? Whatever the need, our staff at Robert’s Auto Repair will be happy to take care of your vehicle so that it may safely take care of you. We proudly serve the engine, mechanical and auto body needs of people who live ... read more

If not maintained properly, a car engine can overheat just as easily in the winter months as during the summer. Coolant hoses are a very important part of the total cooling system. They are the fluid connectors between the engine, the radiator and heater. Most cars have a handful of hoses. Since hoses are so vital to safe engine operation, most car experts recommend replacing them if they are over four years old, or if they feel soft at the ends. Fortunately, they can be conveniently replaced when it’s time to flush the cooling system and install new coolant. Need service, repair, or maintenance on your automobile’s hoses? Whatever the need, our staff at Robert’s Auto Repair will be happy to take care of your vehicle so that it may safely take care of you. We proudly serve the engine, mechanical and auto body needs of people who live and work in Monterey, Pacific Grove, Seaside, Sand City, Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Salinas, Corral De Tierra, Pebble Beach, Carmel, Carmel Valley, Prunedale ... read more

The engine drives fan belts / drive belts to power components such as the alternator, AC compressor, power steering pump, and engine cooling fans. Drive belts are made of rubber and wear out over time, especially if they come into contact with oil. Periodic inspection is necessary to determine if drive belts need to be replaced; many manufacturers have set specific replacement intervals. If one drive belt is worn or has failed, the remaining drive belts should also be replaced. Often, drive belts are overlooked until they fail. Regular inspection and maintenance of your drive belts can prevent roadside breakdowns from happening to your vehicle. Need service, repair, or maintenance on your drive belts? Whatever the need, our staff at Robert’s Auto Repair will be happy to take care of your vehicle so that it may safely take care of you. We proudly serve the engine, mechanical and auto body needs of people who live and work in Monterey, Pacific Grove, Seaside, Sand City, Del Rey Oaks, Mar ... read more

Today's automobile electrical systems are getting more intricate and are stressing the limits of current technology, but they are generally designed from the same principles used 30-plus years ago. The battery is the vehicle’s power storage device used to start the engine and help operate the electrical accessories installed on your car. Average battery life has become shorter as energy requirements have increased. Lifespan depends on usage, which now averages 6 months to 48 months, yet only 30% of all batteries actually reach the 48-month mark. Whenever a car’s electrical system exhibits symptoms of a charging or starting system failure, the most basic test that should be performed first is a visual and voltage test of the battery. Once the exact condition of the battery is known, then it is easier to discover which system components may or may not be working properly, such as the fuses, starter, or alternator. Need service, repair, or maintenance on your electrical system? Whatever t ... read more

Generally, the timing belt (or timing chain) is the sole component that keeps the camshaft and crankshaft in sync. Replacing the timing belt (a cogged reinforced-rubber belt) at regular intervals -- generally every 60,000 miles unless the automobile manufacturer specifies longer -- is a lot less expensive and aggravating than having it break while the engine is running. A broken timing belt usually means catastrophe for an interference engine, and major inconvenience for a non-interference engine. In an interference engine, the valves and piston share the same air space. They never touch, unless your timing belt breaks or skips, and this is a catastrophic failure that requires removing the head and replacing bent valves. Non-interference engines do not risk this contact if the timing belt goes. Nonetheless, either can leave you stranded, so regular timing belt replacement is very important. Need service, repair, or maintenance on your timing belt? Whatever the need, our staff at Robert ... read more

A clutch is a mechanical device which provides for the transmission of power (and therefore usually motion) from one component (the driving member) to another (the driven member). The opposite component of the clutch is the brake. If you drive a car with a manual transmission, you may be surprised to find out that it has more than one clutch. Additionally, vehicles with automatic transmission cars have clutches, too. In a car, you need a clutch because the engine spins all the time, but the car's wheels do not. In order for­ a car to stop without killing the engine, the wheels need to be disconnected from the engine somehow. The clutch allows us to smoothly engage a spinning engine to a non-spinning transmission by controlling the slippage between them. A clutch works because of friction between a clutch plate and a flywheel. Clutches are prone to routine beatings and need to be checked and maintained on a regular basis. Clutch parts wear at different rates depending on the rider’s st ... read more

A manual transmission, or the gear box, is the type of transmission used in motor vehicles that uses a clutch to change the torque in the internal combustion engine. Put simply, manual transmissions make your car “go” forward or reverse, and if your transmission fails, so does your car. Getting a manual transmission replaced is very expensive, so it is important that you regularly maintain it to keep it running smoothly. Because there are so many moving parts within a manual transmission, it is natural for parts to get worn down and need replacement. Sometimes, manual transmissions do not work properly because the transmission is misaligned, the clutch is worn out, or the transmission fluid needs to be replaced. Fortunately, a little maintenance on a manual transmission can extend its lifetime, and we will be happy to service your vehicle to help it “go” smoothly and easily. Need service, repair, or maintenance on your manual transmission? Whatever the need, our staff ... read more

Here at Robert’s Auto Repair, we feel that engines are a highly-functional work of art -- for it takes a balance of mechanical integrity and sleek design to build such a powerful masterpiece. Engines do remarkable work, and if properly maintained, can last a very long time. The main function of an engine is to allow a small amount of gasoline and air, contained in a small enclosed space, to ignite and explode, generating energy that sets various mechanisms into motion to turn the wheels of the car. A constant cycle of these little explosions inside the engine runs your automobile. Literally hundreds of things can keep an automobile engine from running properly--the main ones being a bad fuel/air mix, lack of compression, or lack of spark. The engine is the heart of your vehicle’s life, so let our trained staff at Robert’s Auto Repair maintain it throughout your vehicle’s lifetime. Need service, repair, or maintenance on your engine? Whatever the need, our staff at Robert’s Auto Repair ... read more

All the health experts agree...make sure you drink 8 glasses of water each day to stay healthy. When you have enough fluids in your body, toxins get flushed out, your wrinkles diminish, and you feel better. Well, the same can be said about your car. Obviously, your vehicle doesn't drink 8 glasses of water each day, but think about all the fluids your car requires to run "healthy". There's gasoline to make it go, there's water to cool it down, there's oil to keep it lubricated, and so on. Periodically, these fluids need to be flushed and replaced in order to get rid of the "gunk". Changing the fluids in your radiator is especially important. Most of us are aware that radiator coolant keeps your engine from overheating and corroding, but did you know that the same fluid can corrode your engine if you leave it in too long? Over a significant period of time, the static charge of the engine makes the fluid acidic and it eats up the aluminum pipes, making your engine vulnerable to maj ... read more

Your car's brake system is a complex grouping of parts which serve a critical role in keeping you safe. No other system in the car is as important for your safety. Keeping your brake system in tip-top shape should be your top priority. These are some common problems that we see at Robert's Auto Repair that require brake repair and service: Wear--The braking system does a lot of work and the brake pads take the brunt of the punishment. It is a good idea to have you brake pads checked every 6 months or when you suspect a problem. Symptoms include squeaking, grinding, or increased stopping distance. Most pads have a thin metal tab which vibrates against the rotor when the pads wears down to a dangerous level. Some pads do not have this and if not checked periodically can wear down far enough to ruin the rotors. Warped Rotors--More common in newer cars, but possible on all disc brake systems. Rotors warp due to being overheated or incorrect tightening of the wheel. A warped rotor ... read more

They say, "The Devil is in the details", but not at Robert's Auto Repair. Our detailing process removes those little devils that scratched your auto's paint and made it lose its shine. We have a top-of-the-line auto detailing center here at Robert's Auto Repair. In another blog, we talked about how you could take your automobile to the "car spa" here and give it a "facial". Well, our detailing center puts the on the finishing touches for a new-car-finish look. Our detailing specialists hand wash all the cars and offer paint protection packages, Wheel Brite, and Tire Shine. Want us to recondition the interior with our cleaners and shampoos? We can do it. Want us to thoroughly clean your carpets and seats? We can do it. Want to remove your vehicle's paint scratches and have a paint finish that sparkles like new again? We can do it. We make your auto body experience simple and easy at Robert's Auto Repair. Call now at 831-373-1535 to schedule your car's "facial" with our ... read more

Dents. They are to a car what a blemish is to a face--or worse--a black eye Did you know that at Robert's Auto Repair, your car can have its own "facial"? Think of our auto body shop as a car "spa" that can condition the car to look like it was when it was bright, shiny, and new. Let me explain our process. When your car arrives at Robert's Auto Repair, our estimator will assess your car's damage and provide an estimate for you, and if needed, your insurance company. Once the car is approved for dent repair, it will be placed in the auto body shop, where it will be carefully disassembled and repaired so that the damaged panels will be restored to their original shape. Next, the car is moved to the paint shop, where we use state-of-the-art equipment, and green-certified waterborne paint. Due to our outstanding, high-tech infrared equipment that paints, then bakes the paint at an even temperature, what used to take 6 to 8 hours in the auto body industry, now takes less than an hour ... read more