Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

You won’t want to miss the excitement this Saturday, December 9, at 10:30 a.m. when Santa and Mrs.Claus fly-in by helicopter direct from the North Pole to Carmel Valley Village Airfield! There they'll board their sleigh and lead a parade through Carmel Valley Village. The parade is filled with horses, the Carmel Valley Kiwanis Club train, unique autos and more! Afterward, kids can head to the Carmel Valley Youth Center for a photo with Jolly Old Saint Nick.   Our most popular and well-attended holiday lighting display is the Candy Cane Lane neighborhood in Pacific Grove. Candy Cane Lane is so popular, it has its own Facebook page!  You are welcome to park and walk through the neighborhood or drive very slowly. Either way, be extra, super car ... read more

Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours. Everyone at Robert’s Collision Repair wishes you the happiest of holidays.     At Robert’s Collision and Repair, we don’t fix TVs, but we do fix automobiles. If you’re looking for professional technicians to repair your vehicle, visit our skilled mechanics at 234 Ramona Ave, Monterey, CA. 93940, or schedule an appointment online. We look forward to taking care of you and all your auto repair needs

A lit up check engine light could mean a lot of things. Perhaps it’s a small issue or it could indicate the problem is more serious. If your car is not surging smoke, chances are that you are not in immediate danger. The check engine light is there to keep car drivers aware of engine irregularities and sensory malfunctions. The vehicle’s onboard computer, or engine control unit (ECU), can adjust to make sure that the engine is running efficiently. What do you do when the sensor is getting a bad reading and that “pesky” check engine light turns on?   It’s best to have a professional auto mechanic take a look at your vehicle when your check engine light comes on. They’ll use a code reader that plugs into the vehicle and gives a report. In some cases, there may be an easy solution and you can remedy the problem yourself. For example, not tightening your car’s gas cap all the was could result with a flashing check engine light. If you have ... read more

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

No matter what type of car you own, the significance of preventative maintenance is absolutely essential. The team at Robert’s Collision & Repair feels that all responsible car owners need to be very mindful of preventive maintenance. Our highly skilled auto mechanics are happy to inspect your vehicle to see if any repairs should be done to prevent malfunctions, dangerous situations on the road, and hefty costs down the line.   Safety Preventative maintenance lets drivers have some peace of mind because it’s comforting to know that your automobile is in good working order. For example, if your brakes are inspected regularly, you’ll know that they are operating within safe operating limits. If you wait until something goes wrong, you’re putting yourself, your passengers, and other drivers on the road at risk.   Extend lifespan of car Preventative maintenance is one of the easiest things you can do to prolong the life of your vehicle. When you ... read more

10% Off Transmission Service. Offer valid through November 30, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   For many car owners, transmissions are one of the most overlooked and often forgotten components of a vehicle. Why? We’ve been trained to change your oil, change our spark plugs, change our windshield wipers, etc., but we often forget to notice the transmission until the car won’t go.   To prepare your vehicle for the upcoming holiday shopping and road trips, we are offering the following November special:  10% Off Transmission Service.   Transmission service is important and here are four reasons why:   Transmission service prevents “lock up”. Lock up happens when your vehicle’s transmission gets so hot that your vehicle simply shuts down. Transmission service saves money in the long run. Changing your automatic transmission fluid when it turns black can help prevent most transmission prob ... read more

Halloween is here and with it come the added dangers of excited goblins running in the streets in their dark costumes. Robert’s Collision & Repair reminds you that trick-or-treaters can be indecisive and impulsive, and their costumes may hinder their peripheral vision. Please be careful and follow these Halloween safe driving tips:      Drive at least 5 mph below the posted speed limit to give yourself extra reaction time should children dart into the street. Keep an eye out for pirates and princesses walking in streets, on medians and curbs. Look out for children crossing streets. They may not be paying attention to traffic and could run out from between parked cars in the middle of the block. Be careful entering driveways and alleys.   A quick reminder that Halloween may bring out some little devils. If your vehicle is egged or otherwise affected, bring it to Robert’s Collision and ... read more

Halloween is just a few weeks away. Time make your pumpkin a Jack-o-Lantern. Here are some pumpkin carving tips:   Be sure your pumpkin has a thick green stem. The greener the stem, the fresher the pumpkin. The thicker the stem, the thinker the pumpkin and the better for carving. Plan your design. If you’re an artist, freehand may work for you. The rest of us work better with a plan. Use a pen to draw you design before you get out you blade. Think outside the carving tool kit. The more complicated your design, the more creative your tools. Think outside the kit. Try clay sculpting ribbons and tools, Exacto knives, and zesters and be sure they’re sharp. Empty the inside. Take the time to thoroughly scrape the inside of your pumpkin. Scraps and bits of pumpkin meat can mold and ruin your entire project.    Keep your pumpkin moist.  Most carved pumpkins can last up to two weeks but as soon as you cut into them, they begin to dry out. After you carve ... read more

Autumn is here and with it come shorter days and longer nights. Daylight savings ends in a couple of weeks and that means more driving in the dark and at dusk. Your vehicle’s headlamps are like eyeglasses. Dirt and grime accumulate so gradually we don’t notice and before we know it, our vision is hindered. Headlamp restoration is important in prolonging the life of your vehicle’s exterior lighting system. Poor upkeep could result in replacement and, depending on your vehicle, that can be costly.          Here are some headlamp maintenance tips from Robert's Collision & Repair in Monterey:   Check your headlamps regularly. If they’re starting to yellow, wipe them off with a mildly abrasive cleaner. Be sure it’s not too abrasive - you don’t want to scratch them. Have your headlamp alignment checked. Be sure your headlamps are both pointing in the right d ... read more

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

At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we are known as the premier auto body shop on the Monterey Peninsula. Ninety percent of our business handles auto body repair from minor dents and scratches to major automotive restoration, while the remaining ten percent of our business handles mechanical repair. We see a lot of auto body repairs in our shop after vehicles have been involved in some form of accident. The accidents can be minor, like door dings and scratches, to major repairs that involve replacement of multiple car parts, new paint in the affected areas, and glass replacement. Whatever the size of the job -- small or large -- Robert’s Collision & Repair can handle it all. Most of the time, our customers will make an insurance claim in order to cover the costs of auto body work. But other times, customers will opt to pay for the auto body repairs directly when they don’t want to involve the insurance ... read more

September 2017 Special: 10% discount on labor up to $100 for any mechanical repair or service. Offer valid through September 9, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   In honor of Labor Day, we want to celebrate by offering our clients a 10% discount up to $100 for any mechanical repair or service. Call it a labor of love, but we want our customers to know how much they mean to us, and that is why we are discounting 10% off labor up to $100 for any mechanical repair or service.   What could you do for your vehicle that would qualify for this offer? Here are a few mechanical repairs or services that could extend the life of your vehicle and save you money at the same time:   Drive belt replacement Transmission oil service Power steering fluid service A/C system check & charge Coolant flush With all the back to school activities and preparations for a busy Autumn, doesn’t it make sense to take advantage of our September o ... read more

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

Top Electrical Problems in New Cars | Robert’s Collision & Repair in Monterey, CA When you purchase a new car, your expectations are sky-high. Modern vehicles, equipped with sophisticated electrical systems, offer unmatched convenience and functionality. However, these systems can also come with challenges. Electrical problems in new cars can hint at manufacturing defects or hidden wear-and-tear. Understanding the source of these issues is crucial to ensuring your car performs as expected. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common electrical problems in new cars and what they might indicate about your vehicle’s condition. Dead Battery A dead battery is one of the most common assumptions when a car’s electrical system fails. To check, try flashing your headlights. If they’re dim or don’t turn on at all, your battery may need a jump or replacement. A dead battery could also suggest that your car was more pre-owned tha ... read more

Car week in Monterey takes place August 11 - 20, and it just so happens to be one of our favorite events here on the Monterey Peninsula! This year’s events will be scattered across Seaside, Monterey, Carmel, Pacific Grove, and Pebble Beach. Monterey Car Week has become one of the most popular car shows in the world. Considering the week-long festivities and famous cars and car designs, it’s no wonder why! The show starts off on Alvarado Street in downtown Monterey with a car show that has over 30 classic cars lining the roads. The events later on in the week at Pebble Beach are so revered that many sponsors and car makers use the stage to introduce new car models and even offer test drives! The sponsors are not only car companies, they are also sponsored by Rolex and a handful of yacht and private jet representatives. It’s certainly a high mark for the attendants to meet, but the great thing about Car Week is that as long as you have a love for cars and make some tim ... read more

10% Off Labor for Tire Rotation Service. Offer valid through August 31, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers. Did you know that tire rotation can extend the life of your tires up to 20 percent? That means if you have tires that are rated for 50,000 miles, you may be able to squeeze an extra 10,000 miles out of them if you rotate those tires at the factory’s recommended rate. To extend the life of your tires, take advantage of our monthly special in August:  10% Off Labor for Tire Rotation Service. Our tire rotation service is not only good for your tires, but it’s good for your vehicle, too. Yes, a tire rotation allows us to inspect the health of your tires, but it also alerts us to other issues that may be going on with your vehicle. For example, the wear on your front tires may indicate underinflated tires, or worn out struts. Seeing what is going on with your tire wear means that we could pinpoint potential mechanical issues, keepi ... read more

Living in scenic Monterey, California, means that we don’t need to travel far to find a stunning ocean sunset view. But have you ever checked out what’s under the water? If not, you are missing out! Scuba diving is popular in Monterey, and through many areas in about a 2-hour radius from Seaside. It’s worth the exploration if you have the time and can rent the gear to explore!   For those who have never “taken the plunge” and explored scuba diving before, California has hundreds of miles of coastline to explore! Scuba diving can be a stunning, once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it can also become your new favorite sport. One way to explore several different scuba diving locations is to create a road map of places to visit with stunning scuba diving locations. Traveling along the coast of California for scuba diving is worth it! Since you’re already on your road trip, you might as well keep going! Here are some of the premier spots for diving ... read more

  We’re pretty lucky that traveling to the beach from Monterey is close and easy to access, but many other summer destinations take a much longer drive. If you’re planning on taking a drive inland for camping or theme parks, or have family members to visit who live a couple of hours away, you’ll want to make the most of your fuel this summer. At Robert’s Collision and Repair, we just so happen to know a thing or two about cars and fuel economy. Here are a few tips from the experts at your favorite auto repair shop in Monterey about conserving fuel this summer:   Engine Oil Quality. Old engine oil can negatively impact your fuel economy and the overall, health of your engine. The first step is to make sure you follow your vehicle's specifications for regular oil changes to save you some money at the pump.   Extra Luggage. Unless you’ve got plans for that suitcase of extra clothes and the mounting pile of garbage accumulating behind ... read more

In Monterey, we are so lucky to have such beautiful beaches and deep waters right in our backyard. Whether you’re headed to any beach along the coast of Marina, Seaside, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel-By-the-Sea, and Big Sur, you know you’re in for a beautiful view. At Robert’s Collision and Repair, we’ve got a few things figured out about what to bring to those beach trips to make the most of them! Of course, there are the beach trip standards, which include: towels, beach blanket, cooler, umbrella, sunscreen, etc. Having lived near the ocean for so long, we’ve got the inside scoop on things you might not have thought of but will make all the difference for your beach trip. That’s why we’ve made this list of beach hacks and car accessories to keep in your car for the next time you head to the shore! Bike Rack If sun tanning and swimming isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy a bike ride along the beach. We recommend t ... read more

July 2017 Special Offer 10% Off Coolant Flush.  Offer valid through July 31, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   If you’re planning to drive to warmer climates this summer, prepare your vehicle for the sizzling heat with our July special:  10% Off Coolant Flush.   Summertime temperatures in the Central Valley can literally bake cookies in a vehicle that’s parked out in the sun. Imagine what those soaring temperatures do to your engine if you don’t have fresh coolant flowing through your radiator.   When you leave coolant in your pipes too long, it becomes acidic, and it eats away at your engine’s innards. Like used engine oil, coolant breaks down and needs to be replaced for maximum lubrication and cooling performance. New coolant helps keep the engine operating at its most efficient temperature regardless of operating conditions and outside temperatures.   Don’t wait until your co ... read more

The 4th of July is one of the most highly anticipated celebrations of the summer, from the cookouts on the beach to the sparklers to the 4th of July parade that marches down Alvarado Street in Monterey each year. However, it can become extremely dangerous pretty quickly.   Given the road closures, drinks, and fireworks that we enjoy each year, the potential for harm is pretty high. According to the United States Department of Transportation, in 2015 over 200 people were killed in car and motorcycle accidents involving alcohol. On top of that, according to the National Fire Protection Agency, fireworks caused more than 15,000 fires in 2013, and a quarter of all the fires reported that year were reported on, you guessed it, the 4th of July. Surprisingly, the most common cause of fire-related injury is sparklers! In short, it is not uncommon to have serious consequences from being unsafe on the 4th of July. Including a few safety boundaries is a necessity for keeping your friends ... read more

Owning a car is a big responsibility for both new and seasoned drivers. In order to reduce stress further down the line, there are a few key things every driver should know. Luckily, these necessary basics are pretty easy to find out!   Learn the basics of maintenance. That means checking things the oil brake fluid, antifreeze, and windshield wiper fluid. Even better, learn to jump your car in case the battery dies and replace a tire. Everything you learn becomes a tool in case of emergency. Why not invest a little bit of time for less of a headache later on?   Find your car’s manual and read it. Read it again! Put it in a place where you can easily locate it again. Why? There is a lot of information specifically for your make, model, and year. Your manual will tell you which maintenance tasks should be prioritized, as well as how often those things should be addressed. Some critical ones to keep in mind are oil changes, wiper blade replacement, filter changes, fl ... read more

For many families, the car gets a lot more mileage during the summer than during the fall, winter, and spring. As many field trips and daily commutes as there may be, the road trips to visit family and four-wheeling up to the very best camping site are far more rigorous for most vehicles. That’s why we recommend scheduling a trip to see us at Robert's Collision and Repair as soon as possible so that we can check out your car from top to bottom. We want to make sure you don’t get any surprise breakdowns coasting along 17-Mile Drive.   So to prep for summer, it’s good to know what the most frequent culprits for summer breakdowns are. From our experience, here are the most common reasons that cars come to us at Robert’s Collision & Repair in Monterey for repairs during the summer:   Overheated Engine Repair During the warmer season, your car has to work even harder to keep the engine cool, which results in many engines overheating very quic ... read more

The summer is finally here! Let’s hope that the Monterey weather will grace us with more sunny days than overcast ones this year. With the beautiful weather, comes that summer heat! And there’s nothing worse than being packed like sardines into a car that has a broken A/C when you’re trying to enjoy the summer months. Before you hit the road take some advice from your friendly local collision and repair shop; make sure your car’s air conditioner is ready for the trip! There are several ways to test the range of your A/C before bringing the summer fun begins.   Turn up the air conditioner as high as it can go. Test to see if there is a steady increase in cool, dry air flow from the lowest setting all the way up to full blast. If it jumps from 0 to 100 with no middle range, or if the air is damp, moldy, or smells off, this could indicate a need for a filter change or repairs. Even if you notice small differences, for instance, if it doesn’t get quite ... read more

June 2017 Monthly Offer -- Free Brake Inspection. Offer valid through June 30, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   Do your brakes stop on a dime? If yes, you’re in good shape. However, if your brakes are acting sluggish, or creep along when you push down on the pedal, we encourage you to take advantage of our Free Brake Inspection during the month of June.   A free brake inspection can mean a big difference in your vehicle’s safety. When you come in for a free brake inspection, we will:   Measure material of brake pads/shoes Measure thickness of brake rotors/drums Visually inspect for damaged/overheated brake components Check hydraulic system for leaks, brake fluid condition, and fluid level Check operation and condition of parking brake Visually inspect all brake system components such as calipers, master cylinder, hoses, seals, etc.   With all the summer road trips you have planned, doesn’t it make ... read more

    As cars age, you often begin to see discoloration, staining, peeling… all sorts of problems appearing with paint. Although these can be staved off with regular washing and waxing, many have specific, sometimes preventable causes. At Robert’s Collision and Repair, we’ve seen it all when it comes to paint job problems, and we have all the tools and talent to sand down, repaint, repair, and wax your car’s paint job until it is seamless and shiny again. But just in case you’ve got some professional curiosity about how paint problems develop, here’s a few common reasons paint can wear:   Craters and air pockets can develop and mess up a vehicle’s paint job. These are a result of a bad paint job, to begin with. To paint cars, we use a spray gun to coat the vehicle evenly, but if the gun is too close to the car or is moved too slowly, air bubbles can form and when they pop, it peels back that paint. This happens pretty quickly a ... read more

Purchasing a new car is a huge endeavor, but don’t let the overwhelm of the task deter you from finding a new vehicle if you really need one. Here are a few suggestions from everyone at Robert’s Collision about getting started on the car search.   Do your research. The first step is simply going online and searching for the features you need in a car and a price range you can manage. Do you need a 4-door or can you manage with a 2? Do you go off-roading or work in any vocation that would require a truck or something with a solid 4-wheel drive? Or do you need a compact car that allows you to buzz around the city and get in and out of tedious parking spots? Search for what you need in a car, and find the makes and models that best provide for those minimums. Consider the cost. Now that you’ve got an idea of what you’re looking for, dig more into that price tag research. How much can you afford in monthly payments? Will you buy new or used? What year model ... read more

Monterey has some of the best produce around to offer, but the key is knowing where to find them! Most Farmer’s markets in the area are a safe bet, but finding the best roadside stands can be a bit trickier. Here are a few suggestions for produce stands and farmer’s markets from a few Monterey locals here at Robert’s Collision and Repair.   The Farm in Salinas Valley. This produce location even has it’s own web page! http://thefarm-salinasvalley.com/farm-store/produce-stand/ Del Monte Produce is a local produce stand with three different locations, the nearest one in Monterey at 2400 Del Monte Ave. in Monterey. http://freshdelmonte.com/ Valley Produce and Spice is a regular produce stand at 399 Reservation Road in Marina. Finally, there is a handful of produce stands along Highway 101 in Gilroy. You’ll roll past several different p ... read more

May 2017 Monthly Offer -- $25 Off repairs totaling $150 or more in labor expenses. Offer valid through May 30, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   If you need help saving money during the month of May, take advantage of our monthly offer: $25 off repairs totaling $150 or more in labor expenses.   This offer includes important things your car needs, like:   Shocks & strut replacement Axle (CV) boot replacement Brake replacement Spark plug & wires replacement Timing belt replacement​   Folks, don’t miss out on this major money-saving opportunity! If you’ve been putting off auto repair for a while now because you think it’s going to be expensive, now is the ideal time to bring your vehicle in.   To take advantage of this May monthly deal of $25 off repairs totalling $150 or more in labor expenses, schedule an appointment with our Service Department at 831-373-1534 and mention this offer. We ... read more

It’s raining, it’s pouring... and before you know it, you’ll need new wiper blades! As little as we think about windshield wipers up until we need them, we virtually never question their origin.   When you think about it, windshield wipers are actually an incredible invention, and critical to driver safety. They were first invented and patented in 1903 by Mary Anderson, who observed an issue with visibility after a trolley ride one year prior. Anderson was born in Alabama, but moved to Fresno, California in 1893. A handful of others had attempted a device like this, but none were successful enough to warrant a patent until Anderson’s. By 1920, her original hand-crank windshield wiper design was a standard for automobile production.   Working in the auto industry as we do at Robert’s Collision and Repair, we have a lot of respect for all the contributors throughout history who have improved the safety and functionality of cars. We carry that m ... read more

Big Sur is a popular travel destination for adventurous road trippers and vacationers alike. For those who’ve never been, Big Sur is simply the coast south of Carmel-By-the-Sea, and north of San Simeon, and sequestered by the Santa Lucia Mountains. The area is best known for hiking, camping, beaches, and all sorts of opportunities for adventure. Tourism in this area is essential for the modest community of families and small businesses who call Big Sur their home. But, even with blue skies and cleared roads, the drive can easily become treacherous for unprepared travelers. In order to facilitate the happy travel of as many consumers, customers, and commuters as possible, we have a few resources we’d like to share to help ensure you have a safe trip! Regardless of where your starting point is, you’ll have to take Highway 1 to get into Big Sur (unless you’re a fan of mountain climbing, of course!). Unfortunately, due to the recent extreme weather conditions, many ... read more

April 2017 Monthly Offer -- $10 Off Service. Offer valid through April 30, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   It’s Tax Time, and in an effort to help our customers save money, we are offering a flat $10 off service. Which service? Any service.   It doesn’t matter if it’s an oil change or a major 60,000-mile service. We are willing to knock $10 off any service you need. Yep, that’s how we help you stretch your dollars so you can pay Uncle Sam and remain safe on the road, all at the same time.   This offer is good for the month of April only, so don’t miss out on this grand opportunity to save. To take advantage of this special $10 Off Service, schedule an appointment with our Service Department at 831-373-1534 and mention this offer. We look forward to seeing you soon!  

With all the information out there about technology that inhibits driver safety, it’s worth taking a look at the other side of things: technology that makes our driving safer. Consider something as accepted as seatbelts! In the history of cars, seat belts are still a relatively new adaptation to cars, keeping driver and passengers that much safer in case of an accident. Let’s take a look at some of the latest tech when it comes to our daily commutes.   GPS Whether it’s Garmin, Tom-Tom, Google Maps, Apple Maps, or however you endearingly refer to your electronic navigator, GPS mapping apps and devices have changed the way we travel. The cost of technology like this ranges from free apps to aftermarket vehicle additions that range in price. But because of our GPS, you hardly see someone driving around with a map folded out in front of them.   Back-Up Cameras Once you have one, you won’t know how you went about parallel parking and backing up with ... read more

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

There are many ways to clean and organize your car, but all of them start with some good, old-fashioned spring cleaning. Here are our 5 steps to de-cluttering your car!   Cleaning. Yes, it’s the top of the list. Vacuuming the seats and floors, wiping down the dash and console, vacuuming the floor mats, washing your vehicle, and protecting it with wax or a sealant. All these regular cleaning tasks may be chores, but it’s the best place to start when tidying and sorting out the goodies from the trash in your car. Next, consider what you really need to have in your car. Return your mugs and water bottles, and miscellaneous containers to their rightful place indoors for a good wash. It would also do some good to go through your glove box, center console, and other storage compartments in your car. Do you really need every single paper evidencing your car’s SMOG from 2003 until now? Keep the necessary paperwork, and store or shred the rest. Tackle the trunk. I ... read more

March 2017 Special:  Free Check Engine Light Scan Does not include diagnosis or repair. Offer valid through March 31, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   Does your “Check Engine” light turn on when you start your vehicle and stay on? If yes, your vehicle is trying to tell you something’s up. It may be as simple as your gas cap isn’t sealed properly, or something more serious. Either way, it is important to get to the bottom of what’s happening, and that is why we are offering a Free Check Engine Light Scan during the month of March.   Robert’s will connect our diagnostic equipment to your vehicle and perform a scan for any system faults. Any fault codes will be recorded and documented. Charges will apply for actual diagnosis and repair. To take advantage of this March special of a Free Check Engine Light Scan, schedule an appointment with our Service Department at 831-373-1534 and mention this o ... read more

The deafening grinding and desperate sputtering failure of a car that has just about had it. We know the dread setting feeling well at Robert’s Collision & Repair, and we also know just how to alleviate the dread so you can get moving again. Give us a call and we’ll be happy to talk you through it!   But what exactly is going on when that engine just won’t start? Well, as you may have guessed, there are many answers to this question. We’ll address a few of the most common reasons cars don’t start so that you can have a bit of peace in understanding what’s going on.   First off, listen carefully to what exactly happens when you turn that key (or push that button)! If the engine doesn’t crank at all, that is more likely an electrical problem. Spark plugs, wiring, battery, etc. Malfunctioning security systems can also be the culprit, preventing you from starting the car. However, if you turn the key and it does crank before spu ... read more

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

$50 Off Timing Belt Replacement. Offer valid through February 28, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   How’s your timing belt? Is it time to be replaced? If yes, Robert’s Collision & Repair has a deal for you that’s perfectly timed… $50 off timing belt replacement, good through the month of February.   Regardless of how many puns we can make about time, your vehicle’s timing belt is a highly critical component that must not be overlooked. If your timing belt breaks, it could mean catastrophic damage to your engine, and that could run you thousands of dollars in repair.   To stay on the safe side, be proactive and replace your timing belt when your vehicle requires major service before it becomes cracked, worn, torn or loose. Our offer of $50 off timing belt replacement is a sweetheart deal, and it’ll help keep you and your passengers the major inconvenience of a breakdown on a highway or by ... read more

A road trip with your best friend! Your best furry friend, that is. Nothing can top the utter, childlike joy of a dog’s smiling face out the window as you drive along. As much as driving your beloved pet around with you can be fun for them and sometimes necessary (visiting the vet, the groomer, moving, etc.) it can become very dangerous, very easily. We’re going to let you in on a few safety tips for your canine companion, for puppies and for full grown dogs alike.   1. Bring Supplies Regardless of whether you’re going for a long trip or a short run to the groomer and back, make sure you have everything you need for your dog, especially puppies! Collars, ID tags with a current phone number/address, water, doggie bags, and even some kibble and treats. Puppies can’t exactly “hold it.” You never know if you’ll be in an accident or delayed in another way, so be prepared. If something does happen with and your dog is with you, it’s one ... read more

This a question we get so often from our customers, we thought we might lay out the pros and cons for you so you can make the best decision for your car and budget. All Season Tires The two words we would use to describe All-Season tires are convenience and compromise. Living where the weather isn’t very harsh on either end of the spectrum, not a lot of snow, no blistering summers, is an ideal location to drive on All Season tires. Most locations meet this specification. These tires are sturdy, go-to options for your vehicle year round. This is a blessing for those on tight budgets too. No changes or extra sets necessary- although you definitely want to keep chains in your car just in case weather calls for it. Which highlights the second point about All Season Tires: the compromise. All-Season tires are incredibly well balanced, with treads designed to accommodate smooth driving in the Summer months, and rainy or icy driving during Winter. They are an excellent option. Howev ... read more

10% Off Antifreeze Service.  Offer valid through January 31, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers. Is your vehicle’s radiator ready for the winter weather El Nino is expected to bring? If you’re not sure, consider bringing your vehicle in for an antifreeze flush and replacement. During the month of January, we are offering 10% off antifreeze service so you can better prepare your vehicle for the long winter ahead. Antifreeze flush and replacement is beneficial for several reasons: It removes rust and scale deposits. It lubricates the water pump. It removes contaminants. It allows us to pressure test your system for leaks. It protects your engine from rust and foam. To take advantage of this January special of 10% off Antifreeze Service, schedule an appointment with our Service Department at 831-373-1534 and mention this offer. We look forward to seeing you soon!  

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! 2) Check the oil Making sure you always have enough motor oil in the engine is a simple thing to check, and cheap to maintain. And it’s great for your engine! 3) 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! 4) Take it in for maintenance Yes, we know. You hear this all the time. Even still, we can’t stress enough how important regular maintenance like oil changes are to the life ... read more

We have witnessed many of our customer's cars suffer damage from hitting the curb. When the winter roads are slick, you are more likely to, unfortunately, hit the curb. It may seem as if this is a small mistake, but it can, in fact, inflict lasting damage on your vehicle. If you have hit the curb recently, we recommend contacting Robert’s Collision and Repair, so we can have a look at  your vehicle:     Even if you are going as slow as 5-10 mph, the impact from the curb can damage your tires and wheels. When you hit a curb, you are jolting the connection between your steering system and wheels. The damage to this system can inhibit your ability to steer, especially during winter. Hitting a curb can shock your car’s knuckles, spindles, and axles. This can upset your car’s control system and suspensions. The steering knuckle has two parts: the wheel hub and the spindle. When you hit a curb, you can damage this important component of your veh ... read more

How is the health of your vehicle’s alternator?  Do you know what happens to your car, truck, or SUV when the alternator dies? Here are six signs that your alternator may be having challenges:   You need to jumpstart your vehicle on a frequent basis. The lights on your vehicle are dim and not as bright as they should be. The battery light on your dashboard is on. The smell of burning rubber may indicate that a belt is not working properly. You hear odd grinding or whining noises. Your electrical system is not operating properly.   So, what contributes to alternator failure?  The alternator is the generator for your vehicle’s electrical system. Here are four things that could lead to alternator failure.   If your battery is going bad, it could contribute to alternator failure. Dirty battery terminals could cause the alternator to not start. If your cables and connections are worn out, they can cause alternator failure. An alternator belt ... read more

As we prepare for Thanksgiving, don’t forget the essentials…   Full tank of gas?  Check!   Tires properly inflated with the right amount of air?  Check!   Spare tire and battery cables in place?  Check!   Was the oil changed recently?  Check!   Road trip music?  Hmmm….   If you don’t already have a playlist prepared, here are a few suggestions for an epic Thanksgiving road trip:   The Travel Song from Shrek The Musical:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mn4y-13kxQs Wait for Love by St. Lucia:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXMkGOEgb8Q Shelter Song by Temples:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vs4i41cOv0s Silhouettes by Colony House:  https ... read more

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

Halloween is supposed to be scary. From the creepy witches to the spooky ghosts, there are plenty of things out there to get our heart racing. Let’s make sure our driving stays safe, so we can focus on this festive and fun holiday.   Robert’s Collision & Repair wants you and your family to stay safe. Unfortunately, during Halloween, the number of car accidents rise, especially during the hours of 6:00 - 9:00 PM. This could be due to the influx of trick or treaters walking on the streets or even the number of adult partygoers driving to their destination. Either way, here are 5 safety tips for drivers to follow:   Avoid driving in early evening. This is when most of the trick or treaters will be out and about. Before heading out, make sure all lights, including headlights, sidelights, and reverse lights are working. Inform other drivers of what you are doing. If you are picking up or dropping a child off, use hazard lights. Plan ahead and allow ample ... read more

It can be quite the challenge to sell your vehicle.  We have to worry about so many things, from finding the right price to writing the appropriate ads, that sometimes we overlook our safety. Robert’s Collision & Repair can help. We have compiled a list of tips to help you protect yourself when you are selling your car:   Be friendly: It helps to maintain a positive and friendly attitude during meetings with potential buyers. Try not to meet at your house: For obvious reasons, it is probably not the best idea to meet at your house. Meet during the day: It is not the smartest idea to meet in the dark. Daytime is the best time to meet a potential buyer. Do not carry excess cash with you: If you have any cash with you, keep it in your locked car or somewhere safe and out of sight. Meet at a police station: If you are looking for a safe place to meet, try your local police st ... read more

What exactly is engine misfire? When your vehicle’s check engine appears on your dashboard, essentially, your engine is misfiring. There are a number of reasons why your engine could be misfiring. However, at Robert’s Collision & Repair, many of our customers face a similar problem.   If this scenario sounds at all familiar, we encourage you to bring your vehicle into our shop as soon as possible:   You are driving home in a heavy rainstorm one night, and you accidently drive through a puddle. This, of course, results in a wave of water washing over your car’s hood and window. Your check engine light immediately begins to flash, and your engine begins to misfire. Fortunately, you get home safely, but the next morning the check engine light appears again. After a few minutes, the light goes away. This pattern goes on for a few days and then stops. However, next time it rains, you are faced with the same problem. As you can see, this is a complex iss ... read more