Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

Auto body repair has come a long way since its inception. From rudimentary techniques to sophisticated, high-tech solutions, the industry has continuously evolved to meet the demands of modern vehicles and discerning customers. At the forefront of this evolution is Robert’s Collision & Repair, a business that not only keeps pace with technological advancements but also leads the way in eco-friendly practices. Today, we explore how Robert’s Collision & Repair sets the standard in the auto body repair industry. The Cutting-Edge Facility Robert’s Collision & Repair boasts a state-of-the-art, 26,000 square foot facility equipped with the latest in repair technology. Our shop’s commitment to precision and efficiency is evident in its use of computerized estimating systems with digital photo imaging. This technology allows for accurate and transparent estimates, ensuring customers understand  Commitment to Quality and Zero Comebacks At Robert&rsqu ... read more

Photo by Severn Demchuk On Unsplash The Benefits of Professional Vehicle Detailing There are many things to do if you want to keep your car looking and feeling its best, and one of the best ways is through professional vehicle detailing. At CARSTAR Robert’s in Monterey, California, it’s our mission to keep our community safe on the road. Believe it or not, professional detailing services can help do it! We discuss more in our blog below.  What is Professional Vehicle Detailing? Professional car detailing is a deep and intensive process to clean and restore your car to a like-new state. And no, it isn't the same as getting your car washed!  While a car wash typically involves cleaning everyday dirt off your car, detailing involves a lot more work and, in the end, maintains your car’s quality and overall resale value.  Benefits of Professional Vehicle ... read more

Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash 3 Essential Steps to Prepare Your Vehicle for Fall Weather Your safety means the world to us. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures start to dip, it's time to get your vehicle ready for the challenges of fall weather. At CARSTAR Robert's Collision, we understand the importance of ensuring your car is well-prepared for the changing seasons, and we're here to help you make the transition smoothly.    While we don't experience extreme winter conditions in sunny California, the shifting weather can still affect your vehicle's performance later this year. Whether you plan to hit the road for holiday travel or stay closer to home, taking the time to prepare your car for fall can save you from unexpected issues down the road. So, let's dive into three crucial steps to prepare your vehicle for the upcoming fall seaso ... read more

Photo By Wes Hicks on Unsplash How To Prepare Your Vehicle For Rainy Conditions Rainy weather can be challenging for drivers, and we want to help you stay safe on the road while protecting your vehicle from potential damage. As an established auto shop, it is our priority at CARSTAR Robert's Collision to help you understand how to maintain your vehicles for optimal performance and safety.  That's why today, we'll dive into the essential topic of preparing your vehicle for rainy conditions. We’ll discuss the impact of rain on vehicles, tips for preparing your vehicle for rain, and give you insider tips for maintaining the safety of your vehicle! The Impact of Rain on Vehicles Before we delve into the preparation tips, it's crucial to understand how rainy conditions can affect your vehicle.  Rain can creat ... read more

Photo By Hugo B. on Unsplash 5 Essential Tools For Home Vehicle Detailing Taking pride in the appearance of your beloved vehicle is a joy many car owners can relate to. Whether you own a classic beauty, a rugged SUV, or a sleek sports car, maintaining its pristine condition is always a labor of love.  Keeping your car in top-notch condition not only enhances its appearance but also prolongs its lifespan, and one of the most effective ways to achieve this is through regular car detailing. While professional car detailing services exist, mastering the art of home vehicle detailing saves you money and allows you to learn more about your car. In this article, we'll explore five essential tools for home vehicle detailing, empowering y ... read more

Partner Spotlight: 21st Century Insurance - 2023 Another year rolls by & another great year in partnership with 21st Century Insurance! We take great pride in being an authorized direct repair vendor for 21st Century Insurance. This partnership allows us to provide exceptional collision repair services to customers while ensuring a seamless and efficient claims process. In this article, we will delve into the details of our partnership with 21st Century Insurance and shed light on the benefits it brings to our valued customers.   Introduction Our partnership with 21st Century Insurance further enhances our ability to provide top-notch collision repair services to policyholders, ensuring their satisfaction throughout the repair process.   Why 21st Century Insurance? 21st Century Insurance is a well-established company known for its reliability and commitment to customer service. With a rich history in the in ... read more

How Do My Brakes Work & How Can They Help Me Avoid A Collision? Brakes are essential to any vehicle, ensuring your safety on the road. They allow you to slow down or bring your vehicle to a complete stop whenever necessary. Understanding how your brakes work and their role in collision avoidance is vital for every driver. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of the brake system and how it contributes to your safety on the road.   Introduction When you press the brake pedal, a series of complex mechanisms come into play, converting your foot's force into stopping power. The brake system works by transforming kinetic energy into heat energy, effectively reducing the speed of your vehicle. Let's delve deeper into the brake system and its various components.   Understanding the Brake System Brake Components The brake system comprises several key components, including brake pads, rotors or drums, calipers, brake lines, and the master cylinder. Each ... read more

Vehicle Maintenance: Why a Well-Maintained Vehicle is a Safer Vehicle Keeping your vehicle well-maintained is crucial not only for its longevity but also for your safety on the road. Regular maintenance ensures that your vehicle functions properly enhances its safety features, and prevents unexpected breakdowns. In this article, we will explore the importance of vehicle maintenance and the key tasks involved in keeping your vehicle in optimal condition.   Importance of Vehicle Maintenance Ensuring Proper Functionality Regular maintenance allows for early detection and resolution of potential issues. This ensures that all components of your vehicle, including the engine, brakes, suspension, and steering, are in proper working order. Proper functionality minimizes the risk of accidents and provides a smoother driving experience. Enhancing Safety Features Well-maintained vehicles have various safety features that require proper maintenance to function effectively. This include ... read more

  4 Unforgettable Day Trips Near Monterey, CA. Monterey, California, is known for its stunning coastline and charming town and serves as a perfect base for exploring the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding areas. If you're looking to embark on memorable day trips near Monterey, we have compiled four unforgettable destinations offering unique experiences and natural wonders. Get ready to discover the beauty of Big Sur, the charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the vibrancy of Santa Cruz, and the tranquility of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.   Day Trip to Big Sur A day trip to Big Sur is necessary for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) and be captivated by the breathtaking coastal views. Stop by Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where you can hike through ancient redwoods, picnic by the river, or even swim in the Big Sur River Gorge. Take advantage of the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks like the Bixby Cre ... read more

  How Servicing Your Vehicle Power System Will Help You Avoid Trouble Your vehicle's power system is a critical component that ensures the proper functioning of electrical systems, ignition, and overall performance. Regular servicing and maintenance of the power system can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, extend the life of your vehicle, and save you from costly repairs.   In this article, we will explore the importance of servicing your vehicle's power system and the steps you can take to ensure trouble-free driving. Understanding the Vehicle Power System The vehicle power system comprises various components that provide electrical power and ensure smooth operation. These components include the battery, alternator, starter, belts, pulleys, fuses, ignition, and fuel. A well-functioning power system is essential for powering electrical components, starting the engine, and maintaining proper ignition. Regular Maintenance and Inspection Regular maintenance a ... read more

z 7 Back To School Tips For New Drivers With another school year approaching, new drivers will find themselves navigating the roads independently for the first time. Whether you're in driver's training or a college freshman, it's essential to prioritize safety and be well-prepared for your daily commute. Here are seven valuable back-to-school tips for new drivers to ensure a smooth and secure driving experience.   1: Understand the Rules of the Road Before hitting the road, familiarize yourself with traffic rules and regulations. Study your local traffic laws and understand the meaning of road signs and signals. Adhering to speed limits, yielding to pedestrians, and obeying traffic signs are crucial for a safer ride.   2: Practice Defensive Driving Defensive driving is a fundamental skill that every new driver should develop. Stay focused and attentive while driving, watching for any dangerous situations or hazards. Ensure you maintain distance from the dri ... read more

5 Warning Signs That Your Brakes Need Service Your car's brakes are one of the most critical safety features, and it's essential to ensure they're always working correctly. However, brakes can wear out over time, and if they're not serviced regularly, it can lead to accidents. In this article, we will discuss the five warning signs that indicate that your brakes need service. Squeaking or Grinding Noise The most common sign of brake trouble is a squeaking or grinding noise. If you hear a high-pitched squeal when you apply your brakes, it's usually an indication that your brake pads are wearing thin. If you ignore this warning sign, the noise may become louder, and you may start hearing a grinding sound. This grinding sound is usually caused by the metal part of the brake pad rubbing against the rotor, which can cause serious damage to your brakes. Vibration or Shaking while Braking If you feel a vibration or shaking in your steering wheel or brake pedal when yo ... read more

When Do I Replace My Tires & Where Do I Go To Replace Them? As a car owner, knowing when to replace your tires is important for ensuring the safety of yourself and others on the road. In this article, we'll go through the signs that indicate you need new tires and where to go to replace them. Signs you need new tires Your tires are the only part of your car that comes in contact with the road, so it's important to make sure they're in good condition. Here are some signs that indicate you need new tires: Tread wear indicator bars Most modern tires have tread wear indicator bars that are designed to help you determine when the tire has worn down to the point where it needs to be replaced. These bars are located in the grooves between the treads and become visible when the tire is worn down to 2/32 of an inch. Low tire tread depth If the tread depth of your tires is below 4/32 of an inch, it's time to replace them. You can check the tread depth using a tread dep ... read more

How You Can Service Your Vehicle To Help Avoid Collisions Car collisions are becoming more frequent these days. However, with [proper maintenance, many of them can be avoided. And one of the most important ways to prevent collisions is to service your vehicle regularly. In this article, we will explore how you can service your vehicle to help avoid collisions. Regular Vehicle Maintenance Regular vehicle maintenance is essential for preventing collisions. It involves checking different components of your vehicle and ensuring they are in good working condition. Here are some key areas you should focus on: Check Brakes and Tires Brakes and tires are two critical components that should be checked regularly. Faulty brakes can cause accidents, while worn-out tires can lead to skidding and loss of control. You should check your brakes and tires every six months or as recommended by your manufacturer. Check Lights and Signals Faulty lights and signals can make it hard for other drivers ... read more

Must See Day-Trip Spots Around Monterey, CA: Local Secrets Monterey, California, is the perfect destination for a day trip! Whether you want to explore the majestic redwoods in Big Sur or stroll on one of our area's many beaches, there are plenty of stunning sights to enjoy.   Before you embark on your journey, take time to make sure your vehicle is in optimal condition. If you need help getting your vehicle ready for the trip, CARSTAR Robert's Collision in Monterey can help with all your Collision repair & detailing needs. Big Sur and The Redwood Forest Big Sur offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast, as well as access to some of California's most beautiful redwood forests. The drive itself is part of the fun; keep an eye out for migrating whales and dolphins along the way! Once you arrive at Big Sur, you can explore its many trails and beaches or simply soak up the sun enjoying a picnic lunch surrounded by lush greenery. The 17 Mile Drive Ok, you ca ... read more

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio   We proudly serve Coast Auto Insurance customers We're excited to serve Coast Auto Insurance customers at our collision repair shop. Our team is dedicated to providing quality collision repair backed by service you can trust, and partners like Coast Auto insurance are integral in that process!   Why a partnership brings you value At CARSTAR Robert's Collision, we work with all major insurance companies to help you through the process of getting your vehicle repaired after an accident. We understand that dealing with insurance can be stressful, so we do everything we can to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.   Coast Auto Insurance is one of the many insurance companies we work with to bring you the best possible collision repair experience. We are proud to partner with Coast Auto Insurance and provide our customers with the high-quality repairs they deserve. If you have any questions about how we work with y ... read more

Photo by Scott Graham on Unsplash Why we partner with amazing companies, like Progressive Insurance! Each month, we like to feature one of our partners at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision. This month, we would like to spotlight Progressive insurance and its incredible legacy of providing high-quality turnkey insurance options to their clients! Progressive Insurance has been around since 1937, which means you get to draw on nearly a century of trust and community credit; built over generations. They really live their name, in that they are a very progressive company when it comes to living their values.  Progressive Insurance makes insurance easier ... read more

Photo by Mat Napo on UnsplashBlog Updated 11/13/23 This blog post is an updated version of a piece originally written in 2021. The holidays are a magical time for creating cherished memories with family and friends. Whether you're traveling just around the corner or across state lines, hitting the road is often a part of the festive season. However, unforeseen events, such as accidents, can disrupt the joyous journey. In this updated blog, we revisit the essentials of a well-prepared road kit and introduce new aspects of our business, emphasizing our expertise in auto body work to assist you in vehicle mishaps. Road Kit Essentials A well-equipped road kit can be the difference between inconvenience and disaster. Here's a c ... read more

    Photo by Holly Mandarich on Unsplash  For this week's blog, we want to highlight some of the more common causes of auto collisions so that you can avoid being in an accident yourself. While commuting to work or going about your day, you may have witnessed an accident on the road and wondered why it happened. At CARSTAR Robert's Collision in Monterey, we care about your safety and want to point out some things to avoid while on the road.  Being able to identify hazards on the road or having the ability to react to avoid accidents requires attention and focus. It is important to remember that your life, your passenger's life, and the lives of other drivers around you can be affected ... read more

from the website This first Monday of this September is better known as Labor Day! This holiday serves as a symbol of the progress and achievement of the working people. There is also a second meaning to Labor Day in which most Americans consider Labor Day to mark the end of summer!    This labor day, we want to acknowledge our hard-working employees who contribute directly towards the amazing work done here at CARSTAR Robert's Collision in Monterey. Without the dedication and commitment of our employees, we would not be able to provide the exceptional service in which we take pride in ourselves.    We encourage you to check out our reviews which highlight the fantastic work done by the leading auto repair team in the Monterey peninsula! We would also like to invite you to check out this video about our customer service!  If you have any questions regarding ... read more

Photo by Marc-Olivier Jodoin on Unsplash    This blog was originally written on 8/23/21, and has been updated on 4/8/24.  Few things are worse than driving right into a pothole–and that goes for you and your vehicle. Though potholes are widely out of our control, and sometimes going through them is the only way to stay safe on the road (darn you, hectic traffic!), there are a few things you can do to ensure that potholes aren’t end-all-be-all’s for your vehicle.  In this month's blog, we will be giving you some advice on how to avoid potholes or obstructions on the road and how to be safe when driving.   How Do Potholes Happen? First off, how do these pesky potholes happen? Well, it's all about the weather, my friend. When it rains or snow ... read more

Photo by Deleece Cook on Unsplash    Is your vehicle ready for back-to-school season? Going back to school in person after being away for a long time can be exciting! And because of this it is important to have your vehicle ready and make sure everything is working perfectly, especially the brakes.    Having your car ready for back to school can save you lots of time and money. Your kids or probably yourself are going back to school, which means the hours you spend in the car have just significantly increased! You will be driving from home to school, to work, and back and forth. Below are some of the steps you should consider to have your vehicle and brakes ready for back to school:   Keep an eye on your tires: Your vehicle tires are like your feet; they need to be in go ... read more

Photo by Michael Jin on Unsplash Have you ever been in a car accident and don't know what to do? For this month's blog, we will teach you some of the accident checklists you should know when a car accident happens! Driving can be something that sounds fun to do, but it can also be risky if we don't take precautions and are focused on the road. Traffic accidents can happen anytime, to anyone, and for this reason, it is essential to be prepared and know what to do when it happens.    When people suffer a car accident, the first thing they do is get paranoid and leave the scene, which is reasonable. But trying to leave the place of the accident without even calling the police or making sure the other people on the vehicle are okay can be the most common mistake people make in ... read more

Photo by Jan Baborák on Unsplash    Welcome to our August blog! For this blog, we will be talking about relieving your first year of driving and some of the things you can do to calm your nerves and help you drive, like if you have been doing so for years.    The fear of driving is incredibly common among first-time drivers and can be mild or severe. It takes its time, probably up to three months or even more. Even if you start driving on the regular roads, it might take months before becoming really good, but it's all about practice. We all had the experience of having one family member or friend yelling at us while trying to teach us how to drive, but in the end, we all learned how to do it successfully.    Our friends at CARSTAR Robert's want you ... 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

Photo by Tai's Captures on Unsplash With COVID-19 on everyone’s minds and shelter-in-place orders predicted to remain in place for the foreseeable future, masks and gloves have become commonplace. Though social distancing includes staying 6 feet apart and wearing surgical masks and gloves when around others, you may have noticed that some people are continuing to wear them while driving around. Is this necessary? Read on to find out! Since the COVID-19 crisis began, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have recommended that people follow all social distancing guidelines, which includes wearing a cloth face covering while out in public. These face coverings range from scarves to N95 respirators, but the main question is, do we n ... 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

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

  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

  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

  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

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

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

  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

  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

When is it time to replace your tires? You’ll want to partner with your auto repair experts to get the most out of your tires. If you properly care for your tires, not only will you get better gas mileage, but you’ll be able to get many more months and miles out of them before having to invest in a new set. Take a look at the photo below to see signs of a problem before it gets any worse.    Here are some tips on what to look for and how to get the most out of them: Get in the habit of looking for wear and tear on your tires. The more you know your tires, the easier it will be to identify a problem. Regularly check the air pressure in your tires and when you do that, take that time to give the rest of your tire a once over.  Inspect the tire tread depth and wear. Use a penny to help you assess the depth. If you can’t see Lincoln’s head because it’s well nestled into a deep tread, you’re good to go. If it’s completely exposed ... read more

Even if you wash your car on a regular basis, at the car wash or at home, it’s still in your best interest to have it professionally detailed at least once a year. If you can swing it every 4 months, even better! The more you detail it, the better it will serve you over time. There’s nothing quite like getting into a freshly detailed car. It feels good and it looks terrific. The harsh chemicals used by the car wash facilities as well as what is found in many everyday kinds of soap we tend to use on our vehicles can cause damage or leave buildup. They can lead to the destruction of your car’s paint job as well as contribute to rust spots that can cause extensive damage over time.  The point of washing your car is to get it clean. The point of detailing your car is to bring it back to its original state of beauty or to get as close to that as possible. Detailing means that only the best equipment and cleansers are used to restore to as near perfect as possible. Th ... read more