Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

Have you noticed there are fewer airline flights and less desire to fly in recent months? It’s no fault of the airline industry, of course, but the Coronavirus has opened up other travel opportunities. In today’s current events, road trips exploring your local region are what’s hot among those looking to get out of the house for a few days. Because road trips are trending, we have some suggestions for romantic drives in the COVID Era.  Now that we’re in February, many of us start to think about Valentine’s Day. Lucky for us, the Monterey Peninsula offers a host of romantic drives that we can choose from and enjoy in a day or two. But before you set off for romance on the road, here are some things to consider. Plan ahead for your romantic drive. Romantic drives don’t have to be lengthy, but in the COVID Era, there are various reasons to plan ahead. Bathrooms may not be open along the route you’re planning, for example. Hotels and cute ... read more

This month, CARSTAR Robert’s Collision wants to highlight and celebrate one of our partners:  Geico Insurance.  Geico Insurance has been a longtime partner of our auto body shop. Even before the time of COVID-19, we had an on-site Geico representative who would assess the collision damage of their clients’ vehicles. Together, we do our part to provide easy, convenient service and communication to our mutual clients. Our combined goal is to make your auto body repairs seamless and hassle-free, with high-quality customer service.  Here are some videos showing the entire customer service experience and repair process when you work with CARSTAR Robert’s Collision:   For additional information about Geico and how to make a claim after you suffer an auto accident, you’ll find a wealth of material here: https://www.geico.com/claims/  ... read more

Lucky for us, not too many crazy things happen here on the Monterey Peninsula. However, that doesn’t mean we should blow off preparing for disaster. Monterey County has seen numerous wildfires, evacuations, car accidents, and other disasters. Why not prepare yourself, your family, and your car in case you need to leave your home on short notice? If you take the time to be prepared, the painful sting of unexpected accidents or emergencies can be reduced. Of course, one can never be fully prepared to a life-altering event, but advance preparation can remove some of the chaos that comes with it.  Earlier this month, we shared some helpful advice that can help you and your family prepare. Here’s a recap: Check your tires. Just a couple extra minutes in the morning, make sure your tires aren’t going flat on you. You can even use the penny trick! When your tires are properly inflated, not only will your tires last longer, but you will reduce your chances of a blowo ... read more

Every year, many of us promise to do better in the new year. A lot of us resolve to lose weight, change an old bad habit, or quit the things that no longer serve us. In 2021, we’re curious. What are your New Year’s Resolutions? Among them, will you resolve to drive better and safer this year? With the Coronavirus still affecting our local communities, our state, and our nation, many of our driving habits have changed. Some drivers report feeling that their driving skills have become rusty. Other drivers have confessed that since they’re more glued to their phones, the temptation to text and drive can be overwhelming. Here are some tips on how to stick to your New Year’s Resolutions for better driving and safer travels in 2021. Pack a personal health kit that includes two spare face masks, hand sanitizer, bottled water, and some Kleenex. Not only will this help you reduce your risk of exposure, but it may also come in handy for anyone who accidentally leaves th ... read more

In the past years, we have posted our annual letter titled “New Year’s Resolutions From Your Car”. Now that CARSTAR Robert’s Collision is no longer doing mechanical repair and exclusively handling auto body repair, we have updated the annual letter written from the perspective of your vehicle. Enjoy!   For us, it’s become a tradition to share a few New Year’s Resolutions with you. Sometimes resolutions are tough to stick to, but these 5 simple car care routines are quick and easy to maintain. Little reminders to do the simple things to keep your car running until next year! 1) Get your car washed regularly. This is one of those little things that fall to the side after a while. Keeping your car washed and clean can help maintain visibility and extend the life of your paint coat! When you wash your car, not only are you helping it look clean, but you are also rinsing away the salt and grime that could affect your brakes’ ability to ... read more

As we reflect on 2020, we have hopes for a better year. Please, do not think that we are making any political statements in this week’s blog. Instead, our goal is to find the good in a yearlong, rough situation. We hope that in 2021, we will continue to remain healthy and fully employed, but we also wish for more travel opportunities and the ability to visit friends and family like we did before the Coronavirus. It’s a worthy goal, right?   It is easy to point out all of the things that didn’t go well in 2020. But there is a positive way to look at this year. This year forced us out of our comfort zones and made us find new ways of working, learning, and connecting with friends and family. We no longer take for granted live music, movie theaters, restaurants, amusement parks, and our very own Monterey Bay Aquarium. This year woke us up in many ways that we resisted. But we fully believe that the changes we saw due to COVID-19 are going to benefit us as we move ... read more

If you are staying home for the holidays on the Monterey Peninsula, that’s terrific! 2020 has been quite a year, and we are very fortunate to live in such a beautiful place on California’s Central Coast. If you are looking for places to hang out on the Monterey Peninsula during the 2020 Winter holidays, we have some ideas for you and your family to enjoy.   Enjoy the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. If you like to walk, bike, skateboard, jog, or take a surrey ride along our rocky shore, our recreational trail is one of the best in the world. The majority of visitors stick to the portion of trail between Lovers Point in Pacific Grove to the Tides Hotel at the border of Monterey and Seaside. However, this trail continues further South to Asilomar State Beach and further North to Castroville. The entire trail is beautiful, so enjoy the view and be sure to wear your facemasks.   Go Golfing. We have world-class golf courses here on the Monterey Peninsula. The Monterey ... read more

It’s almost time to hit the road and go see the family for the holidays. To prepare your vehicle for holiday travel, we thought it would be wise to provide a checklist showing how you can prepare for smooth, stress-free driving.    We hope you enjoy this helpful pre-trip checklist.   Check your tires for proper tread and full inflation. Pack all the tools you would need to change a flat tire. If you’re planning to drive in the snow, be sure to bring tire chains. Make sure your battery is fully charged and shows no signs of corrosion. If your brakes are squeaking or squealing, have them checked. Is your car in need of oil change service? Get it done before you go. Do you have an emergency kit? If you’re driving in snow or plan to travel on isolated roads, do you have enough water, snacks, and warm blankets to keep you safe if you’re stranded? Is your Check Engine light on? If yes, make sure your auto mechanic checks it out. Have you pa ... read more

On Monday, December 7, 2020, we remember Pearl Harbor Day. If you are a longtime local you may know this, but Monterey experienced lasting effects after the Japanese attack. If you are new to the Monterey Peninsula or are a fan of history, this week’s blog centers around Pearl Harbor Day and what happened in the Monterey Peninsula.   The war was brought to California’s coast just eleven days after Pearl Harbor. Several areas were targeted by Japanese submarines, including Cape Mendocino, Monterey Bay, Estero Bay, and San Diego. Monterey Bay was on high alert all the way from Santa Cruz to Pacific Grove. According to the Mobile Ranger blog, submarines in these areas were an effort to scare the Americans into thinking a large attack on the mainland was coming next. The cities were chosen for their locations along commonly used shipping lanes and for the best opportunity to attack ... read more

At CARSTAR Robert’s Collision, we don’t just fix cars – we protect them. One of the questions we often hear from our clients is, “Why do you use Carnauba Wax?” It's a great question, especially for those looking to preserve their vehicle’s paint and maintain that showroom shine. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just want to keep your car looking new, Carnauba Wax plays a key role in protecting your investment. What is Carnauba Wax, and Why Do We Use It? Carnauba Wax, also known as "the queen of waxes," is the go-to choice for car collectors, Concours d'Elegance enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a flawless finish. Unlike other waxes that sit on the paint's surface, Carnauba Wax transforms your car's paint into a deep, liquid-like pool that shimmers under varying light conditions. It's not just about aesthetics either – Carnauba Wax offers superior protection against sc ... read more

Photo by Chris Lawton on Unsplash In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we want to remind everyone that there is so much to be grateful for. Yes, this year has been incredibly rough due to COVID-19 and the other challenges we have faced here in California. However, we choose to focus on the good in every situation. That is why we want to list the many things that we are grateful for here at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision:   We are grateful to have a large number of happy clients who are thrilled with our customer service experience and the quality of our work. We are grateful that today’s modern vehicles have so many safety features, that even when a collision occurs, the precious cargo inside is well protected. Of course, not all accidents allow you to walk away without a scratch. But the safety features that have been added to most vehicles can certainly help reduce the risk of higher fatalities. We are grateful for state-of-the-art equipment, tools, and auto body technolo ... read more

As holiday travel starts to ramp up in November, the risk of traffic accidents increases. We know you drive carefully, but what should you do if other drivers put you and your vehicle at risk of a collision? Here are the top five things you should do to avoid a collision. Drive defensively. They always stressed this tactic in driving school. The goal is to stay focused on the road, your speed, and where you are in relation to other objects. Distractions are bad, so you should avoid getting caught off guard. Driving takes a lot of mental focus, so it is in your best interest to be considerate of others but take care of yourself first. Keep your speed down. Speeding through neighborhoods isn’t safe, especially when pedestrians, children, pets, or local wildlife are nearby. You never know when an animal or bicyclist could jump out from behind a parked car and surprise you. When you keep your speed to the posted limit or slower, you are more likely to avoid hitting any objects ... read more

With holiday travel coming up, you may want to prepare a COVID-Era Emergency Kit for your family vehicle. To help you get started, we have created a checklist that will help you prepare for an emergency. Checklist If you’re headed to the mountains: Pack appropriate chains for your car  Current medications Gloves Warm blankets Shovel Jumper cables Spare tire, jack, and lug wrench A flashlight and extra batteries Battery jumper cables A basic first aid kit A blanket and warm clothing Bottled water and energy bars Safety flares A tool kit and a windshield ice scraper If you are not sure of what to do in the event of minor roadside emergencies, here are some helpful videos: How to change a flat tire:   <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Tn-Xh5ldkXw" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-pic ... read more

Years ago, our auto body repair shop was the first of all auto repair shops to receive Green certification from the Monterey Bay Area Green Business Program. To obtain this green certification, we had to employ various procedures that prove to be environmentally friendly. One of the major things that helped us earn that certification was our use of waterborne paint. CARSTAR Robert’s Collision was the first and only Green shop in the area using waterborne paint. This type of paint is water-based and the leading auto body paints in the industry that is eco-friendly. Using waterborne paint instead of more harmful kinds is better for the environment and your vehicle for several reasons:   First of all, we don’t have to sacrifice quality. This technology reduces hazardous waste that negatively impacts the environment as well as our employees. When waterborne paint is used, it serves an effective solution for lowering volatile organic compound emissions.  Waterbor ... read more

While COVID-19 has continued to ravage the world, it’s a difficult time for people in our community to come together and support causes near and dear to our hearts without fear of becoming ill. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s now more important than ever to support these causes, especially when supporting them does so much good. Read on to learn five ways you can support Breast Cancer Awareness Month, despite COVID-19! Join a virtual 5K run/walk There may not be many 5K run/walks to physically go to this year due to the COVID-19 epidemic, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t sign up virtually! Not only are they easy and cheaper than in-person events, but you can participate according to your own schedule and fitness level. Host a fundraising event online Though fundraising in person may not be in the cards right now, there’s so many ways to help fundraise online! Set up a GoFundMe or other similar fu ... read more

While trick-or-treating may not be an option this year, there’s no reason you can’t still show off your Halloween spirit! From dressing up throughout the month of October, decorating your house and front yard, and even getting a costume for your car, there’s no end to the fun you can have this Halloween season. Keep reading to see some great Halloween ideas to dress up your car! Halloween Window Paint For those who like to keep things low key but still enjoy showing off their festive spirit in a more artistic fashion, Halloween window paint is a great option. Paint on spooky ghosts, jack-o-lanterns, bats, or even a whole Halloween-themed masterpiece! There’s no end to the fun designs you could come up with, and it’s a great way to get the kids involved with a fun, creative, and simple Halloween activity.  Halloween Decals and Magnets If you aren’t the artsy type, but are still into the easy Halloween decor, th ... read more

California has been struck by fire after fire in the last few years, and 2020 is up there with the worst fire season our state has ever seen. Along with smoky orange and grey skies and poor to dangerous air quality, California residents have had days and days of ash falling from the sky. With no end to the fires in sight, it’s important to make sure that you keep your car from accumulating long-term damage as a result of the fire season. Keep reading to find out how to keep the air pollution from ruining your car’s paint job, and how to keep the air in your car as clean as possible.  After driving, you’ll likely arrive home with some ash residue. This can be removed quickly and easily by gently wiping down your vehicle with a long-handled car duster to remove any soot and ash that have accumulated. Make sure to pay particular attention to your headlights and taillights to ensure you have maximum visibility. If you have access to a garage where you can park your ... read more

With another round of shutdowns for California on the horizon, our food industry has taken a major hit. Why not get out of the house for a bit while you drive down to pick up some takeout? It will be a pleasant evening drive, and you'll be supporting your local restaurants in the process! You can turn your ride into a picnic and take in some of the beautiful scenery the Monterey bay area has to offer. Keep reading for some of the top-rated takeouts in the Monterey Bay area to try.    Red House Café: Home to the historic "Little Red House," the Red House Café has become a local landmark befitting the Little Red House's history. Initially built in 1895, the Little Red House opened up the Red House Café in 1996 along with a garden shop. Both are still here today and serve up only the best New American cuisine with a European influence. With an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and a location to die for, you can take ... read more

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash Though everyone’s summer plans have likely been upended due to COVID-19, that doesn’t mean that you can’t make summer fun for the kids! Many families have chosen to keep their kids home from summer camps, and some might have closed their doors for now. Whatever the situation, there’s no end to the great ideas that will keep your children busy and entertained all summer long. 1.       Make Your Own Camp: This one’s a no-brainer, but there’s nothing stopping you and the kids from making your own stay-at-home summer camp! With a little planning and preparation, you can keep the kids occupied with arts and crafts projects, fun science experiments, and even cooking lessons! Head to Google and plan your curriculum as you see fit. You can even pitch a tent in the backyard or the ... read more

Photo by Victor He on Unsplash Staying physically active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic. For many people, especially during the summer, physical activity is usually something they’d be doing outside at parks, beaches, campgrounds, and a host of other summer destinations. Keep reading for places to go and ways to stay active, even while shelter-in-place restrictions are in place! Visit parks that are close to home! Places you can and should visit will ideally be close by and won’t require much traveling. Visit those parks that are closest to you and check with the park or recreation area well in advance to learn how to prepare safely. Find out if there are bathroom facilities and other services that are still open and available to the public. Beaches and othe ... read more

Photo by Maxwell Ridgeway on Unsplash Depending on where you live and what you do for a living, you might find that you spend an awful lot of time in your car on your way to and from work, drives to school, and every other little errand you might have. Unfortunately, commuting for more than 20 minutes a day can cause chronic stress. That's why the CARSTAR Robert's Collision and Repair team wants to help you de-stress and decompress while you drive with this list of tips and tricks to try! Healthy Habits While Driving: Most of us hop in the car first thing in the morning, with some toast or a bagel and coffee to try and beat the morning traffic. Try getting up a little earlier so your morning routine is calm, and you have plenty of time to make a healthy breakfast. You might even want to pack some snacks for the road, or blend up a sm ... read more

Photo by Luca Peng on Unsplash At CARSTAR Robert's Collision and Repair, we know that traveling with your beloved pets can be a constant struggle. To help you make the most of your driving time with your pets and keep your family's smaller extensions safe and happy, take a look at this list of tips and tricks to traveling with pets! Before any extended travel, you should always make sure your pets are healthy to do so. Take them to the veterinarian for a checkup, make sure all their vaccinations are up-to-date and copy those records with you. If you're planning on flying with an airline, these records are required. Making sure your pets stay healthy means you also need to bring along enough of their regular food, medication, and water for them to last the duration of the trip. Traveling for humans and pets is a little different depending on what kind of a ... read more

Photo by Frank Zhang on Unsplash Summer is in full swing, and unfortunately, big vacations might not be a possibility with continued shelter-in-place orders on the horizon. Luckily, there’s nothing like a family road trip to brighten everyone’s spirits and get out of the house. But because road trips involve extended time in the car, it can be tough to keep the kids occupied. Keep reading for some ideas to keep the kids entertained the next time you head out on a road trip! First up on the list is the ever-popular backseat-turned-movie theater. This tip is especially easy for those cars with built-in DVD players for the backseat. If you don’t have this nifty little feature, portable DVD players built for the vehicle ... read more

Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash With COVID-19 causing record numbers of disinfectant and cleaning supply sales (and shortages) around the world, it’s natural to worry about getting your car’s interior clean as a whistle. The team at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair knows your family’s safety is your number one priority. Still, we don’t want you to ruin your car in the process! Read on to find out the best practices to use when disinfecting your vehicle.  First, a little bit of information about how COVID-19 reacts to certain surfaces: the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is passed from person to person when they cough or sneeze. Tiny droplets are released, carrying the virus, which a healthy person ... 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

This COVID-19 pandemic has really changed our “normal” way of life here on the Monterey Peninsula, hasn’t it? Since March, we have been encouraged to Shelter In Place, stay at home, only travel for essential business, and stay in our neighborhoods. Multiple events have been canceled, and one of them is our beloved Monterey Car Week. Monterey Car Week is an annual event that many of us -- especially die-hard auto enthusiasts -- look forward to every year. We have made it an annual tradition of sending our marketing gal out to the various open-to-the-public car shows to take photos and share them with our car buddies. We are truly going to miss celebrating Monterey Car Week, for it is an event that brings in approximately $50 Million in annual revenue for the hotels, restaurants, venues, and supporting industries on the Monterey Peninsula. With deep respect, we honor the intention of reducing the risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus, and we do encourage everyone to ... read more

With the Shelter In Place Ordinance lasting until May 31st here on the Monterey Peninsula, the Memorial Day Weekend is expected to look a little different in 2020. We won’t be able to gather in large groups to celebrate the traditional kick-off to Summer, but we are very fortunate to live and work in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Living on the Monterey Peninsula has its benefits. The temperature is never too hot or too cold. Our Monterey Bay is breathtakingly beautiful. We have some of the most legendary golf courses in our backyard. Plus, we are a community filled with wonderful people who have added much richness to our long history. Truly, if we cannot go anywhere during the Memorial Day Weekend, staying here at home is not a bad thing at all. However, if you are looking to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, here are five ways to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend. Go camping in your own backyard. If you have a large enough backyard, why not set up a tent and ... read more

Window tint - Pros and Cons 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 ... 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

  When your car was new, its paint was pristine and glossy. Over time your vehicle becomes exposed to everyday wear and tear, and your paint begins to fade and full. Here is a list of 5 everyday things that can damage your car's paint, some of which may surprise you.   Bug Juice The front of your car seems to collect bugs splattered across the front, especially in summer. Once these bugs are dead, they can seem harmless; however, if you don't immediately remove them, you can find your car has permanently etched bug imprints in your paint. As soon as you are able, you can take a soft cloth and grab some bug and tar remover and get to work to prevent your car from becoming a graveyard of bug imprints.   Bird Poo Although we do love watching these majestic feathered friends of our soar across the sky, how many times have we heard a plop and a thud to find our car has been bird bombed? Bird droppings are grainy and often filled with seeds, and acidic berry rem ... read more

  At CARSTAR Robert’s Collision and Repair, we know you love your car as much as we do, so we put together a list of car cleaning hacks with handy items already in your home. We hope these hacks are helpful!   Toothbrush cleaning tools Use an old toothbrush to scrub your dash, vents, and console. Toothbrushes are very handy when getting into tight spaces that need a scrub.   Toothpaste your headlights It might sound funny, but headlight lenses get cloudy over time after being exposed to the sun. One way to clear your headlamps and brighten the road is to take some toothpaste and a towel and get scrubbing. It may take an application or two, but the results you will see are impressive!   Q-tip cleaning When nooks and crannies are challenging to get into, grab a Q-tip, and get to rubbing. Q-tips are especially great for cleaning your vent corners and between the shifting lever.   Magic Eraser on vinyl and leather stains Are you finding dirt and ... 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

  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

    Used parts from a junkyard can be a fantastic alternative to aftermarket parts, UNLESS that used part is also an aftermarket part. Cars can be in an accident more than once. If a vehicle that is in a wrecking yard, say, from a front-end impact and your vehicle requires a left rear door, this part could be a great option. What if that same car had been in an accident prior and was repaired before the front-end collision which made it a total loss? That used part is now not only pulled from the wrecking yard; it is also an aftermarket quality part. That is like doubling down on alternative parts.   Who finds these parts anyway? Used parts go through many hands before they reach a body shop. First, a vehicle has to hit 70% threshold of the resale value before qualifying as a total loss. Once a car is deemed a total loss, it is then towed to a wrecking yard to await tear down. Salvage yards usually have a big fenced-in area as well as different warehouses to store ve ... read more

  Aftermarket and alternative parts have their place in the repair process.   Believe it or not, some vehicles over four years of age begin encountering challenges when tracking down replacement parts. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts may simply no longer be available, and the only option becomes aftermarket or salvaged parts to repair your vehicle.   Remember that for your monthly premium to remain affordable; insurance companies use aftermarket parts in the repair process. Would you use a cheaper part to save money if the two were nearly identical in every way? How about reusing a component that is still good? Insurance companies are faced with this same challenge, and so have come up with policies and protocols to streamline their approval process throughout your automobiles repair.   Collision shops love the fit and feel of an OEM part; it is the preferred part to work with. If aftermarket parts are available and insurance will not pay for an O ... 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

  Have you ever wondered what the difference is between OEM and aftermarket parts?   OEM parts are designed by the same factory and the same equipment your car has been built with. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. These parts are an exact match and are equivalent to the parts your vehicle was made initially when new from the factory.   AFTERMARKET replacement parts made in different factories from molds, templates, or casts that attempt to replicate your original car's components. Some aftermarket parts are reverse-engineered and designed to improve the performance of your vehicle, however many of these "generic" parts made in mass quantity with cost savings in mind. These parts don't quite fit or operate as well as OEM parts and can compromise the quality of your repair. Sometimes this can mean your car's body panels don't fit or match up, as well as your original part did.   In the collision industry, some certified ... 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

We have worked hard to earn and retain our Green certification from the Monterey Bay Area Green Business Program. CARSTAR Robert’s Auto Repair was the first and only Green shop in the area using waterborne paint. What that means is that we care about the environment as well as being able to provide you with the best paint for your vehicle.    Using waterborne paint instead of harmful kinds is better for the environment and your vehicle for several reasons:   First of all, we don’t have to sacrifice quality. This technology reduces hazardous waste that negatively impacts the environment as well as our employees. When waterborne paint is used, it serves an effective solution for lowering volatile organic compound emissions.  Waterborne paint improves air quality and our environment. CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair hires only certified technicians who are well trained and uses our state-of-the-art equipment. We have invested in the be ... read more

While we don’t get snow and ice here in lovely Monterey, we do get a fair share of rain. Instead of locking down in hibernation mode, follow these tips to help keep you safe. You can prepare yourself and your vehicle for commuting in the rain and while it contributes to nearly 1.2 million traffic crashes each year, you don’t have to be a part of that statistic. While it’s true that we are fully equipped at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair to fully restore your vehicle after a crash, we would much rather help you avoid requiring our auto body services! Here are some helpful tips to keep your vehicle safe while driving in wet weather. Posted speed limits are designed for good weather. When conditions aren’t great, slow down and give yourself extra room around you.  Don’t use your cruise control since it can increase the danger when hydroplaning.  Keep your headlights on for better visibility. Minimize the likelihood of hydroplaning ... read more

When you look around this time of year, it’s hard not to begin to get into the holiday spirit. This is the time of year for gratitude as well as gift-giving. Giving a gift to your car isn’t such a crazy idea, but there are endless ideas out there for the auto enthusiast in your life too.  Auto Detailing Auto detailing is one of the specialty services offered at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair. It’s a great gift for your car or for the car enthusiast in your life. Consider it a spa treatment, and who wouldn’t want a spa treatment for Christmas? Detailing provides practical benefits too. It will get the gunk and dirt off of your car, and that will help protect the integrity of your paint.  Now that your car is detailed and clean, take a look at some of these ideas to help keep it that way: A Car Garbage Can is always a great idea to help ... 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

In case you haven’t noticed, we recently joined the CARSTAR network in an effort to better serve our customers. When we joined, we did so because CARSTAR is North America’s largest network of independently owned collision repair shops. We offer auto body repair, dent repair that’s paintless, and even storm damage repair. When you see the CARSTAR signs, you’ll know that customer service is the number one priority. It always has been for Robert’s Collision & Repair, but now we’ve revved up a few notches by joining the CARSTAR family.  What you can count on from CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair Quality repairs: We provide you with the highest caliber of quality repairs. We have state-of-the-art technology and our technicians are the best possible. Everything we do is based around providing you an excellent customer service experience. Part of that commitment is making sure our turnaround times are as quick as possible without cu ... 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

Monterey Auto Repair Services You Can Trust at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair Looking for a reliable auto repair or collision repair service in Monterey? Turn to the experts at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair. Since 1996, we’ve proudly served the Monterey community with high-quality repairs and exceptional customer service. Whether it’s a routine auto repair or detailed collision repair, we’ve got you covered. At CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair, we invest in state-of-the-art equipment and ongoing education for our technicians to ensure your vehicle is restored to factory-level condition. Your satisfaction and safety are our top priorities, and we believe in delivering nothing less than the best service in Monterey. In this blog, we’ll explore the essential qualities to look for in an auto repair facility, why consistent education is key for auto technicians, and the comprehensive ser ... 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