Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

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

Being stranded with your car is undoubtedly a scary experience. Being stuck in your car is particularly scary if you are caught in a blizzard, stuck in a flash flood, riding through a major earthquake, or drive over a cliff. Believe it or not, if you are prepared, the situation can seem a lot less scary and much more manageable.   Robert’s Collision and Repair has compiled a list of survival tips if you and your family are ever stuck in your car:   Don’t abandon your car in a blizzard or storm: If you are far away from a town or city, walking away from your car can be very dangerous. If you are caught in a storm or blizzard, your car is excellent shelter. Do abandon your car if you are caught in a flood or enter a body of water.  Roll down the windows or break the windows to escape, in case the water pressure won’t allow you to open the doors. Use a flag: If you are stranded on the side of the road, tie a flag on your antenna to alert upcoming d ... 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

We think our tires only last up to 2 years maximum, but we are completely wrong. Tires can, in fact, with proper care and storage, can last up to an incredible ten years. The team at Robert’s Collision and Repair has put together a list of the best-kept secrets of tire maintenance:   Exposure to UV rays shortens the lifespan of your tires. Keep them inside as much as possible. Inspect your tires and rims every month. Make sure to look out for cracks in the sidewall, along with continually monitoring your tread depth. The appropriate amount of tread depth will depend on where you live and your climate. If it is rainy or snowy, you will need a different tread depth, compared to someone who lives in a sunny and humid climate. Ask us about the appropriate tread depth for your tires. Overall, keep your tires away from sunlight, ozone, an environment with a stable temperature as much as possible.   If you follow the tips listed above, your tires should last approxi ... 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

Robert’s Collision & Repair has earned the reputation as the leading auto repair center on the Monterey Peninsula, but what exactly separates us from our competitors? We have a compiled a list of reasons:   Estimators located on site at our facility make the process of auto repair much easier. They can quickly estimate the cost and extent of the damage, so we begin repairing your vehicle that much faster. We’re a preferred vendor for several insurance companies, including GEICO, Farmers, State Farm, Progressive, USAA, and several other auto insurance carriers. In order to become a preferred vendor, you need to meet several standards and requirements. Basically, it is a big deal. Insurance companies trust us to properly repair your car. Our customer service is both professional and personable. We pay close attention to effectively and efficiently service your vehicle, while keeping you informed each step of the way. We boast an on-site Enterprise Rent-A-Car ... 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

10% Off Labor for Car Battery Replacement. Offer valid through October 31, 2016. 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

10% discount on labor up to $100 for any mechanical repair or service. Offer valid through September 9, 2016. 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 offer, which ends Septemb ... read more

The kids are all back in school by now. Is your vehicle prepared for back-to-school safety? According to the National Safety Council, there are several things you can do to help your kids stay safe as they travel to and from school.   Obey all traffic signs. This may seem pretty basic, but there are plenty of people who assume that traffic signs don’t apply to them. They disobey the traffic signs by not stopping at a stop sign, not yielding at a yield sign, ignoring Do Not Enter signs, and so on. Don’t be one of those people who risks the safety of others by ignoring signs.  Please, obey all traffic signs, for they were put there for the safety of everyone.   Don’t text and drive. Yes, you may be in a hurry and yes, you may feel like communicating via text while driving, but don’t do it. It’s too risky for you and everyone in your vicinity. Your focus should b ... read more

Going on a road trip with your family is quite the adventure. It takes quite a bit of preparation but creates a bunch of wonderful memories to share with your family.  No road trip is complete without a customized playlist. To help you prepare for your road trip, we have compiled a list of our favorite summertime songs:   Boys of Summer by Don Henley In the Summer by Crystal Fighters Summertime by Janis Joplin Who Loves the Sun by the Velvet Underground Sun Hits the Sky by Supergrass What I got by Sublime Dreaming of You by the Coral She’s a Rainbow by Rolling Stones Pumped up Kicks by the Foster People Summertime by Girls California Dreamin’ by the Mamas and the Papas The Chain by Fleetwood Mac Time to Pretend by MGMT Sunrise by Yeasayer Sunny Afternoon by the Kinks Surfin U.S.A. by the Beach Boys California Girls by the Beach Boys Summer of 69’ by Bryan Adams School’s Out by Alice Cooper Same Dream China by Gold Panda Along with ... read more

Auto Week is action-packed with a variety of activities for participants and spectators, alike. No matter the event or activity, we are all brought together over one singular passion: cars. Auto Week is an excellent way for us to share our enthusiasm for cars. With such a fun and exciting week ahead, we think it is important to be prepared. Robert’s Collision & Repair has compiled a helpful list of auto week preparation tips:   We recommend dressing for comfort, instead of for style. Don’t forget to take a look at the weather report, before deciding on your outfit. Check each event’s policies and procedures ahead of time. Look to see if the event has any restrictive policies, such as no pets or large bags. Thoroughly plan your day ahead of time. Before the event, decide where you should park, or if there is shuttle service. Bring a camera! This is a fun week, and of course, a photograph will make the moment last just a bit longer. Go as early as p ... read more

Auto Week is almost here. It is time to start getting your car looking fabulous for the upcoming shows on the Monterey Peninsula. It doesn’t matter if you are entering a car show or just going to watch, but you should have your car look its best. Here are a few tips and tricks to make sure your vehicle is show ready:   Don’t forget to clean the engine compartment and undercarriage of your engine. After a wash, we recommend drying it with a chamois or a microfiber towel. Only apply tire dressing, after the tires are completely dry. Make sure to clean surface impurities. You can use a certain type of polish to clean your car and ultimately, restore its shine. Don’t forget to clean your car’s windows. Try not to use Windex, as this is not designed specifically for cars and may damage your car’s interior. You can use newspapers and hot water or cleaner developed specifically for vehicles. Carefully inspect your car for organization and neatnes ... read more

We understand just how stressful it can be to need to bring your car in for auto repair. That is why we go above and beyond to make your visit to our facility worry and hassle-free. We are proud to be able to work so closely with Enterprise Rent-A-Car. We believe this partnership makes life just a little bit easier for our clients.   When you get into an accident, we understand just how stressful and awful this situation can be. That is why have partnered closely with Enterprise Rent-A-Car to provide our clients efficiently with rental cars. While we take care of your vehicle, you will be able to go about your day with of these rental cars,  as if nothing has happened. We also recommend for our clients to use Enterprise when you have guests in town. Our partnership with this company makes renting a car simple and easy.   Next time, your vehicle needs auto repair,  we invite you to Robert’s Collision & Repair, located at 234 Ramona Avenue in Monterey ... read more

With all the high-tech functions in today’s newer vehicles, the car battery often loses power faster than expected. Why? Your car battery is already supporting the vehicle’s sophisticated electrical system, but it wears down more quickly after you plug in your phone, your portable music players, your portable video players, etc.   If you’re not sure when your car battery is wearing out, here are five signs it’s time to install a new one:   Your engine is slow to start, or the cranking seems sluggish. Your check engine light is illuminated. You can see through the transparent casing that your battery’s fluid level is low. Your battery is covered in gunk or is bloated, which means there could be a fluid leak or it’s enduring excessive heat. Your car battery is three or more years old. Don’t be caught with a dead battery. Bring your vehicle into Robert’s Collision & Repair for battery replacement and service. We will be ... read more

We love rain, and goodness knows we certainly need it. Just for fun, we thought we would share our five favorite songs we listen to while it’s raining.   “Stormy Weather” by Lena Horne   “Here Comes The Rain Again” by Eurythmics   “I Love A Rainy Night” by Eddie Rabbitt   “Umbrella” by Rihanna   “It’s Raining Again” by Supertramp   At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we love to help you any way we can with your vehicle, and we hope you enjoyed our favorite songs. For high-quality auto body repair, mechanical repair, oil changes, auto paint, auto detailing, and tire service, come see us at 234 Ramona Avenue in Monterey, CA. For your convenience, schedule an appointment by calling 831-373-1534.   Robert’s Collision & Repair: The premier auto repair center on the Monterey Peninsula.  

On the way to Grandma’s house for the Thanksgiving holiday, road trips can be long and stressful. To make your road trip go more smoothly, with less squabbling from the passengers and less shouting at the other drivers, here are some survival tips for your holiday drive.   Be prepared. -- Like a good Boy Scout or Girl Scout, be sure to have an emergency kit, extra drinks, snacks, blankets, a spare tire and tire changing tools, and plenty of audio entertainment. If you’re prepared for anything, you and your passengers will be able to relax more.   Breathe through the traffic jams. -- Traffic happens. Chances are high that you and everyone else are leaving town around the same time and driving back home the same time, too. If you’re stuck in traffic, remember to breathe deeply, enjoy the journey, and know that “slow and steady” will get you to your destination more safely than the “let’s-speed-and-get-into-an-accident” approac ... read more

What’s your favorite color? Okay, now...what’s your favorite car color? Similar to what car you choose speaks volumes about your personality, the same can be said about your preferred car color. Borrowing from the Today Show, here is what your car color of choice says about you… or how you wish to be perceived.   Black = Serious, classic, elegant, professional White = Fastidious, pure, direct, pristine Red = Bold, confident, sensual, outgoing Orange = Artistic, one-of-a-kind, complex, individualistic Blue = Calm, credible, faithful, authoritative Silver = Elegant, forward-thinking, prestigious, futuristic Green = Well-balanced, no-fuss, organic, trustworthy Brown = Natural, down-to-earth, powerful, unique Yellow = Joyful, effervescent, sense of humor Gold = Glamorous, warm, intelligent   So, how accurate were these descriptions for you? Pretty close, huh? W ... read more

Have you considered what your car, truck, SUV, or mini-van says about you and your personality? Most people “match” what they drive.   Young “Fast and Furious” fans like super-sporty cars that look as fast as they drive, while older James Bond fans like to drive cars that are sleek and expensive.   Soccer moms want a larger vehicle that can safely transport the team and will protect them in the event of an accident.   Many people who live on the Monterey Peninsula prefer small cars, such as the Mini Cooper, the Smart car, or the Fiat, to match their small homes and small parking spaces.   The list goes on, but here at Robert’s Collision & Repair, we are happy to repair and service them all.   If you want to have some fun, take this quiz to find out what car matches best with your personality.   At Robert’s ... read more

Ever heard of trunk or treating? It is a new way to celebrate Halloween that involves candy, cars, and costumes! What more could you ask for?   Basically, car owners turn their tailgate or trunk into a front porch, complete with a costume and candy. Car owners meet at a central location, and kids can go from car to car amassing tons of candy. It completely eliminates door-to-door doorbell ringing, and is a safe, fun, and festive way to celebrate Halloween.   The fun part is dressing up your car for a trunk or treating event. You can go for a scary look, or even recreate your kids’ favorite Disney Movie. The possibilities are endless. Here are just a few ideas:   Add some teeth and tongue to the trunk of your SUV. Don’t forget about the candy for the end of the tongue. What about bringing your front yard to the back of your pick-up truck? Use lawn ornaments, such as skeletons, tombstones, or cobwebs, to decorate. If you are a fan of Disney, this on ... read more

  Auto battery Safety Month is in October. To celebrate, Robert’s Collision & Auto Repair is happy to provide information about maintaining a car’s battery and warning signs of a dying battery.   Tips for maintaining a car's battery: If you can, park in a garage. A thoroughly insulated garage will keep your battery warm, which will prolong the life of the battery. Drive your vehicle on a routine basis. Avoid frequent, short drives. Try not to leave vehicle accessories on for a long period of time. For example, leaving a cell phone charger plugged in will require the battery to recharge constantly, which shortens the life of the battery. Make sure to have your vehicle serviced regularly. An engine in poor condition will overload the battery. Typically, batteries last about two to three years, but how do you know if your battery is on the verge of dying? Here are the signs to watch out for: Your engine cranks when you turn the key, but it will not st ... read more

We are excited to announce our new and improved website! Kukui built us a brand new website and we are excited! Take a look around Robert’s Collision & Auto Repair’s revamped website and let us know what you think.   Some new features added to the new website, include a specific tab for vehicles. We have several vehicles listed, including Cadillac, Audi, or Bentley. We provide high-quality, effective, and efficient service to each model of vehicle. No model of car is exactly is the same, so it is imperative to have the proper knowledge for each make and model of vehicle. Our team is incredibly knowledgeable and experienced with repairing a variety of models of vehicles. Your car will be in the best of hands, at Robert’s Collision & Auto Repair. Check out our ... read more

  The golden rule of auto repair: sweat the small stuff. A small maintenance or mechanical issue can result in serious damage to both your vehicle and wallet. We recommend taking care of the problem, no matter how big or small, now, before it becomes too late.   A small oil leak may not be something to worry about. However, the effects of letting this go unchecked are innumerable and will be definitely turn into something to sweat about. The residue, caused by this leaking oil, can actually contaminate and even deteriorate components of your vehicle, including the suspension system and the electrical connectors.   Make an appointment with Robert's to have your vehicle serviced before that small "thing" turns into something big. Robert’s Collision and Auto Repair is Monterey Peninsula’s premier auto body, mechanical repair, tire service, detailing service, and auto paint service facility. We are located just off Highway ... read more

To become a preferred vendor for an Auto Insurance Company is a big deal. In order to reach the status of preferred vendor, an auto body repair shop must meet certain criteria, be open to business audits, agree on specific pricing, have a good reputation, and work in close partnership with the Auto Insurance Companies. Because of our hard work and premier service, Robert’s Collision & Repair is delighted to be a preferred vendor for the following automotive insurance companies: State Farm Progressive Farmers Geico USAA There are ten things that Robert’s Collision & Repair has accomplished that makes us stand out among the competition. Here are the top ten reasons why so many reputable insurance companies place their trust in us for auto body repair work: We are the biggest DRP facility for USAA Insurance. We are the #2 ARX facility for Geico Insurance in 2015. We now have I-CAR Gold Class Status for Collision Repair. We offer an iron-clad written warr ... read more

“There is a greater than 90% chance that El Niño will continue through Northern Hemisphere winter 2015-2016 and around an 80% chance it will last through early spring 2016.” -- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration With a notable “Godzilla” El Nino season coming, the parched state of California is ready to welcome some serious rainstorms...we hope.  Please, oh please, El Nino, help us end this drought! To prepare for the forecasted Fall and Winter storms, be smart and prepare your vehicle for commuting in the rain. Wet pavement contributes to nearly 1.2 million traffic crashes each year. Though we are fully equipped at Robert’s Collision & Repair to fix your vehicle after a crash, we want to help you avoid needing our auto body shop if we can. Here are some helpful tips to keep your vehicle safe while driving in wet weather. Slow down in the rain. Speed limits are set for ideal conditions with no rain and good visibility. T ... read more

Now that school is back in session, we drivers need to remember to be extra careful while driving in the morning before school begins and in the early afternoon when school lets out. Here are some additional back to school safety tips to help keep kids safe. School Safety for Kids -- safety tips provided by the Klass Kids Foundation Ensure that children take the trip to and from school with at least one other person. There is safety in numbers. Show your children the safest routes to and from school. Walk on the sidewalk (if available) against traffic and avoid alleys, stairwells and shortcut paths. Children at a school bus stop require vigilant supervision when they are picked up in the morning and when they are dropped off in the afternoon. This can be accomplished via high or low-tech means. Surveillance cameras provide an unblinking eye on all activities within their parameters. Local parents can ... read more

We love laboring over the vehicles of our clients. It is both an honor and a privilege to serve our customers with outstanding auto body repair, tire service, mechanical repair, auto detailing, and waterborne paint services. This Labor Day, we are celebrating the near-completion of our renovations to our 26,000 square foot auto repair facility. If you have been a client of ours for a while, you probably have noticed how our look has evolved over time. Sprucing up our shop with new equipment, a new exterior, and a new interior design, has certainly been a labor of love for several years. 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 from Tuesday, September 1 through Friday, September 11, if you mention this blog. Call David Robinson of Robert’s Collision & Repair at 831-373-1534 to book your appointment for any of the following mechanical services or repairs: Remember to contact David Robinson a ... read more

Uh-oh! Summer’s almost over. While the kids get ready to go back to school, make sure the vehicles they’ll be riding in are also back-to-school ready. Here is a helpful video that shows how to make your vehicle safe for the Fall driving season. Not all our clients are comfortable working on their own vehicles, and that’s where Robert’s Collision & Repair can help. Bring your vehicle into our Monterey facility and we will give it a complete safety inspection while it is in for service. If we find any areas of your vehicle that need attention, we will address the issues with you. If you need auto body, mechanical repair, tire service, detailing service, or auto paint service during Monterey Car Week, we invite you to visit us at Robert’s Collision & Repair, located just off Highway 1 at the Del Monte Blvd. Pacific Grove exit. Our shop address is 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. Call 831-373-1534 to schedule an appointment

Monterey County is home to many wonderful wineries. If you’re looking for a quick Summer road trip, or a romantic weekend, here is an informative video that highlights some of Monterey County’s top wineries. If you need auto body, mechanical repair, tire service, detailing service, or auto paint service before you hit the wineries in Monterey County, we invite you to visit us at Robert’s Collision & Repair, located just off Highway 1 at the Del Monte Blvd. Pacific Grove exit. Our shop address is 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. Call 831-373-1534 to schedule an appointment. Remember, please drink responsibly while visiting our local wineries, and please have a designated driver. We want you all to be safe out there! :-)

Did you know that your tires lose pressure daily? In warmer weather, your tires lose even more pressure. With summer and spring approaching, it is important to know what the correct tire pressure actually is for your car. Basically, correct tire pressure depends on the model of your vehicle. These details should be listed somewhere on vehicle: Check the following spots: Door edge Door post Glove box door Fuel door We also recommend checking your vehicle's tire pressure every time you get gas. Don’t forget to check your spare tire. You just never know what might happen. There are also definitely some benefits of properly inflated tires: The tires will last long longer. Your car will drive noticeably safer. Save money at the pump. Robert’s Collision & Repair will be happy to take a look at your tires, and make sure they are properly inflated. If you have questions or concerns about your car, please call us at 831-373-1534, or visit our 26,000 sq. ft. facility at 234 Ra ... read more

It is easy to forget about our windshield wiper blades. These blades work very hard, and it is important to remember to replace them. Windshield wiper blades remove snow, ice, dirt, and rain from our car. We are able to arrive at our destination safely because of our wiper blades. Since it doesn’t rain or snow a lot in California, I can wait longer to replace my windshield wiper blades. This is false. Our blades are exposed to dry, hot weather, which is just as damaging as sleet and snow. Wiper blades, no matter the weather, need to be replaced every 6 to 12 months. If you have rubber wiper blades, you may have to replace them sooner. If your vehicle is equipped with silicone blades, you can wait to replace them a little longer. Here are a few signs your windshield wiper blades need to be replaced as soon as possible: Blades are continually leaving behind streaks and smears. Make squeaking and chattering noises. Blades leave behind large spots of water. Cracks or tears in ... read more

You are driving along, and suddenly, your vehicle’s check engine light starts flashing. What does this mean, and exactly what should you do next? Basically, check engine lights monitor your car’s performance. When that light is on, your car has diagnosed an electronic-control system and is unable to repair it. The check engine light means different things for different models of car, so start reading your car’s manual. The problem in your vehicle’s engine may be a small one or something more worrisome. It is important to take care of the problem as quickly as possible. Bring your car into Robert’s Auto Repair as soon as the check engine light begins to flash. When the check engine light comes on, it, usually, signifies one of the following reasons: Oxygen sensor needs replacing: If you do not replace this, you can lose up to 40% of fuel in the long run. Something is wrong with the gas cap: If you let a faulty gas cap go unnoticed, you, most likely, be making extra trips to the gas s ... read more

When should you change your oil? The answer is far from simple. For older cars, you should change it every 1,000 to 3,000 miles. For newer models, some say you should change it every 7,500 miles, and others say your oil should be changed every 6 months. Which answer is the right answer? We break it down for you: 1. It greatly depends on the conditions you drive in. If you drive in pesky stop-and-go traffic, frequently haul heavy loads, or even drive in very hot, dusty weather, we suggest changing your oil every 1,000 to 3,000 miles. 2. Ultimately, the basic rule is to change your oil every 5,000 miles or six months, whichever one comes first. If you own a newer vehicle, it is important to follow this regime. Dirty oil just does not compare to fresh oil. Sludge in your oil can ruin your engine. Oil changes at routine intervals will prolong the life of your engine, and you may even be able to get twice the mileage out of your car. Start the New Year off right, and treat your car to an ... read more

Editorial Note: We can’t help but run this note from your vehicle every year. It’s one of our annual traditions. Happy New Year from the entire Robert’s Auto Repair team! I, my human's vehicle, do solemnly swear to make the following New Year's Resolutions for 2015. I resolve to carry my humans and their precious cargo safely wherever they drive me. I resolve to stop as quickly as possible when faced with an emergency situation. I resolve to respond quickly when my gas pedal is pushed, my steering wheel is turned, my brakes are applied, and when my human is running late. I resolve to provide warmth when it's cold, air conditioning when it's hot, and shelter from the rain, wind, sleet, snow, and hail. I resolve to never hydroplane, slide, or lose control of myself on the road. I resolve to use gasoline efficiently, helping my human's money stretch as far as possible. I resolve to avoid all accidents, scratches, pot holes, and any damage that would harm me or make my insurance go up. I ... read more

With New Year’s Eve approaching, many of us will be out and about celebrating with friends and family. To keep yourself and your passengers safe, here are some important driving tips that will keep you safe as the clock turns to 2015: Make certain your vehicle is in good repair so you won’t have to worry about pulling off, late at night, on the side of the road. Be sure to have a full tank of gas, too. While at a party, don’t leave your drink unattended, because someone may spike it and that is dangerous. Don’t drink and drive! Period. Be sure to have a designated driver who is not going to drive with a “buzz”. Sober is the only option for your designated driver. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, both on the road and while walking around. Don’t play with fireworks or guns. You’ll just be inviting trouble with the law, at best; or injury, at worst. Don’t go out alone. Stay with your group of friends, even while driving or walking. Make sure your pets are safe and secur ... read more

2014 has been a year of growth and expansion at Robert’s Collision & Repair. Our auto body, mechanical, detail, and tire service teams all work tirelessly to be the premier auto repair facility in Monterey County. We are grateful for our loyal auto body and repair customers, and we wish you many blessings during the Christmas season and beyond. From our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas! We will be closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day, but will be open to serve you on the days in between. Again, thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for your patronage. If you need to get your vehicle in good repair before you head out for your holiday road trip, we are happy to assist you. To schedule an appointment with our auto body or detailing shop, please call today at 831-373-1535. To schedule an appointment with our mechanical repair or tire shop, call 831-373–1534. Robert’s Auto Repair is conveniently located at 234 Ramona, Monterey, CA 93940, right off of Del Mo ... read more

Here’s a fun how-to article for those of you who just can’t get enough Christmas decorations and MUST add Christmas lights to your vehicle: Things You’ll Need: Car with rack Inverter of 150W that will plug into your cigarette lighter Light cords (2) 8’ cords 100 LED C-7 lights 7” Zip ties Power strip with 3 outlets Extension cord Ladder or stool In a nutshell, you will need to splice the cords and connect everything together in order to set up your car’s light system. Next, you’ll need to secure the light system to your roof rack with zip ties. Here’s a very helpful video that will walk you through the step-by-step process: Once you get the hang of adding Christmas lights to your car, maybe you’ll go a little crazy and do this with your car

During the holidays, we often buy gifts for ourselves and for our loved ones...but what about your car? Doesn’t your trusty, reliable vehicle that carries you safely to and from work, school, and play every day deserve a gift, too? We have a solution if you’re looking for that perfect gift for your vehicle…. Treat your vehicle to a holiday makeover! What exactly is a holiday makeover? Well, that all depends on what your vehicle needs, right? Here are some ideas that could make your vehicle look great, operate to its full potential, and keep you safe as you drive hither and yon: Auto body work, to remove small or large dents, scratches, and dings. A full detailing service that will clean your vehicle’s interior, protect the outside with carnuba wax, and remove fine scratches in the paint finish. Wheel alignment and tire rotation, or a new set of tires. A complete oil change, filter, and fluid replacement. Minor or major service, depending on how much mileage you currently have on ... read more

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again… Our Customer Rewards Card Program helps you save money, and that’s an awesome thing to take advantage of during the holiday shopping season. For full details about our Customer Rewards Card program, read more here… If your vehicle needs auto body repair or mechanical repair of any kind, Robert’s Collision & Repair will be happy to take great care of you. We offer many services that will apply to your customer rewards card, including oil changes, tire service, full service car repair, vehicle maintenance, safety inspections, detailing services, and more! Call for an appointment at 831-373-1534, and visit our 26,000 sq. ft. facility at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. We look forward to serving you

There is no doubt that holiday travel with your family can be taxing. We want to make sure the time spent in your car is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. Try these tips: Don’t forget the pillows. Traveling is exhausting. Make sure your kids are comfortable enough to take a nap. A car charger is a must. DVD players and phones help pass the time, but forgetting their chargers can be a disaster. Chargers need to be on your packing list. Stretch your legs at a pit stop: playgrounds, public libraries, coffee shops, aquariums etc. The list of possible pit stops are endless. Try incorporating one into your travel plan. It, most likely, will turn into a mini-adventure! Be prepared for cold weather. Bring emergency blankets, coats, and sweaters for your entire family. Dry erase boards are the best. They come in all different sizes and are a great way for your kids to pass the time. Use your GPS, iPhone, or even a plain old map to plan your trip before you start driving. I ... read more

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

Most people think of major road trips when they plan for tire service and maintenance. However, it’s the daily wear and tear on your vehicle, like your commute to work, trips to the mall, driving the kids to their activities, etc., that create the need for new tires. Be safe as we enter the holiday season and come to Robert’s Auto for tire service and maintenance. What kind of tire services do we provide? Here is a list of what we do, and why these maintenance services are so important: Flat tire repair: Fully-functioning tires are an imperative part of driving safely. If your tire continually loses air or has a puncture, we emphasize bringing it into our shop for flat-tire repair as soon as possible. We will repair punctures, maintain tire pressure, and prevent any further damage. New tire installation: One of the most important aspects of your vehicle’s up keep is installing new tires. Driving on old, worn tires is hazardous and can definitely be a damper on your holiday plans. Ti ... read more

Though Halloween is one of the most popular secular holidays in the United States, it can also be one of the most dangerous nights for pedestrians. As children and their families walk from house to house for trick-or-treating, the excitement often overrides their street smarts as pedestrians. Similarly, drivers can become easily distracted and harm pedestrians unintentionally. To make sure that everyone stays safe, here are reminders of common traffic laws in the State of California: Right-of-Way at Crosswalks -The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Vehicles Stopped for Pedestrians - When a vehicle is stopped at a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection to allow a pedestrian to cross the roadway, vehicles approaching from the rear shall not overtake and pass the stopped vehicle. Unmarked crosswalks are also known as unprotected intersections. Some ... read more

Make sure your wiper blades can help you see clearly through your windshield. If your vehicle needs new windshield wiper blades, we have a deal for YOU! To show our appreciation to you for being a valued customer, we are offering you a limited time wiper installation promotion. Receive free installation of wiper blades with the purchase of wiper blades while your vehicle is being serviced at Robert's Collision & Repair. The rainy season nearly here… we hope! Make sure your wipers can wipe away everything from morning fog to heavy downpours. To get started, call us at 831-373-1534 to schedule a service appointment for your vehicle. Please mention our windshield wiper special if you are interested in new wiper blades. This offer not valid with any other special offers. Offer expires 11/30/2014. Robert’s Collision & Repair is located at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. We look forward to serving you

We know, we know….we just entered Fall, so why are we bringing up Winter already? Well you can never be too prepared. Plus, if you plan to travel anywhere outside of the Monterey Peninsula as the weather grows cooler, you may enter driving conditions often seen in Winter, like snow, sleet, hail, and rain. You can avoid many dangerous winter travel problems by planning ahead. Have maintenance service on your vehicle as often as the manufacturer recommends. Every Fall, you should do the following for each vehicle you own: Have the radiator system serviced, or check the antifreeze level yourself with an antifreeze tester. Add antifreeze, as needed. Replace windshield-wiper fluid with a wintertime mixture. Replace any worn tires, and check the air pressure in the tires. Once your car is ready for Winter, you won’t need to worry about it. During winter, especially if you drive to the mountains for ski season, keep the gas tank near full to help avoid ice forming in the tank and fuel lines ... read more

Staying Safe on California's Rainy Roads: CARSTAR Robert's Collision's Winter Weather Update Updated 10/5/2023 Your safety is important to us, and we’ve been trying to bring you the latest in car news and safety preparedness for the last couple of decades. With that being said, we’re updating this blog from 2014 to help keep information up to date! As we fast-forward nearly a decade from this weather-related blog, it's almost comical how some things never seem to change. Once again, we face a weather forecast that could best be described as déjà vu. The weather predictions for this year have an uncanny resemblance to the past, with forecasts suggesting another rainy winter for California. While we can't predict the weather, we can help you prepare. A Wet Winter on the Horizon According to meteorologist Jordan Krabacher, the consensus is clear: we're in for an ... read more

Robert’s Collision & Repair uses the latest technology in our auto body and repair shop. High-tech paint that dries super fast is among the many high-tech tools we utilize to restore your vehicle after an accident. Akzo Nobel is the world’s largest paint and coating manufacturer. We choose to use some of their products because they are a paint company that believes in producing technologically innovative products that are environmentally responsible. You’ve probably heard us mention that we use “waterborne” paint at Robert’s Collision & Repair, but what does “waterborne” paint mean? Simply put, solvent-based coatings use chemical compounds as the main solvent for thinning pigment solids. Although effective, this method releases Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) into the atmosphere. Waterborne coatings use water as the primary solvent, which greatly reduces VOC emissions. Not only is our waterborne paint friendly to the environment and our paint shop staff, but it also dries v ... read more

Most drivers take their tires for granted until there is a problem, like a flat or worn tread. However, ignoring your tires can become a major safety issue because tires are your vehicle’s only contact to the road. Not only should you pay attention to your tires, but you should also learn the difference between good tires and bad tires, cheap tires and expensive tires, sizes of tires, and the best tires for the conditions you drive in. But first, let’s discuss the importance of buying good tires: Good tires last longer. Good tires may not be the least expensive, but they offer better value. Good tires come with a warranty. Good tires play a big role in your safety, so don’t be “penny-wise and pound foolish”. Some vehicles, like Hondas, have plenty of good tire options, while others, like the Mini Cooper Countryman, requires special sized run-flat tires. If you are unsure what kind of tires to put on your vehicle, the Robert’s Collision & Repair team will be happy to steer you to ... read more