Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

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

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

    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

If you just made your final car payment and want to celebrate this milestone, why not treat your vehicle to an Ultimate Facial? Robert’s Collision & Repair offers an Ultimate Facial for Exterior Paint that will help bring back the showroom floor luster your vehicle had when it was brand new.   This Ultimate Facial for Exterior Paint is only $250.00, and is available by appointment. Rental cars are available as needed. Here’s what the Ultimate Facial for Exterior Paint includes:   Platinum Wash -- Full Service Hand Wash Paint Protection Package Wheel Bright / Tire Shine Clean Glass Air Freshener Vacuum Leather Protectant Complete Micro Buff Clay Magic Complete Carnauba Wax ​   If you want to do something else for your vehicle, you’re welcome to choose from our other detailing services, such as:   Interior Complete Carpet OR Seat Shampoo Interior Complete Carpet AND Seat Shampoo Gold Wash Silver Wash Paint Touch Ups D ... 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

Valentine’s Day is coming up fast for those of you with sweethearts out there! Luckily enough, you can infuse cars into just about anything! Here are a few ways to incorporate cars into gift ideas this Valentine’s Day.   Home Decor Decorate their living space or garage with automobile inspired memorabilia. It’s easy to find clever signs to put up around the workshop or decorative pillows with your favorite convertible on the cover.   Outdoor & Gardening Out with the gnomes and in with the gnew! Cute garden and patio decorations can also come in vintage and contemporary car designs. You can check out some items here ... 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

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

$50 Off for repairs totaling $300 or more in Labor Expenses. Offer valid through December 21, 2016. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   During the holidays, we appreciate that a big chunk of your budget is spent on the ones you love. If the safety of your loved ones is important to you, we encourage you to take advantage of our big December savings offer:  $50 Off for Repairs Totaling $300 or More in Labor Expenses.   You see, we understand that you work hard for your money, and that is why we like to offer specials that help you keep some of that hard earned cash. Since you may not know what repairs tend to total $300 or more in labor, here are some ideas to consider:   Strut replacement Major 30K, 60K, 90K, or 120K mile service Engine rebuilds New tires   If you’ve been putting major repairs on the back burner, waiting until you see a price break or until you receive a much-needed Christmas bonus, this is the perf ... 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

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

The rainy season is around the corner. This means we need to make sure our wipers are in tip-top shape. It is easy to forget about our windshield wipers, compared to our car’s brakes or transmission. For clear visibility, you must stay vigilant and take care to replace your windshield wipers as needed.   It is important to keep an eye on our windshield wipers. When you notice these signs, we recommend contacting Robert’s Collision & Repair to schedule a windshield wiper replacement:   Streaking left on the glass. Your windshield wiper makes noises when in use. When operating, your windshield wipers slightly bounce.   Sometimes windshield wiper replacement will not solve the problem, so it begs the question: What exactly is wrong with my windshield wipers? There can be a myriad of issues causing your wipers to act up. However, this is a common issue we see our customers struggling with. Their windshield wipers work perfectly fine on the intermi ... 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

With fall upon us, it is time to start taking advantage of the beautiful foliage scattered around the central coast. How can you go about doing this? Autumn road trips are the answer. We are all about appreciating the beautiful community we call home. Robert’s Collision & Repair has put together a list of the top autumn road trips on the central coast:   Monterey’s Wine Trail: This road trip is nestled in the Salinas Hills on River Road. This route is full of beautiful scenery, quaint places to stop for lunch, and even a zoo, complete with lynxes and lions. Ukiah Redwoods: This exquisite forest is located in Mendocino County. During autumn, the foliage rivals what you would see on the east coast. Big Sur and the Pacific Coast Highway: It does not matter the season. Driving along PCH in Big Sur is always breathtaking. However, in the fall, the foliage is absolutely stunning. It is a mixture of reds, yellows, a ... read more

UPDATED AS OF OCT. 1, 2023: Safeguarding Your Vehicle and Savings: 5 Tips to Improve Gas Mileage in 2023 Gas prices continue to climb, and it's more important than ever to get the most out of your vehicle's gas mileage. At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we've evolved over the past decade to specialize exclusively in bodywork. Our mission is to help you keep your vehicle in pristine condition, ensuring you don't have to visit us due to an accident. Here are five tips to enhance your gas mileage while safeguarding your vehicle in 2023. 1. Drive Defensively to Avoid Accidents: Saving Gas and Staying Safe Aggressive driving, characterized by speeding, rapid acceleration, and sudden braking, not only endangers your safety but also harms your gas mileage. By adopting defensive driving habits, you not only conserve fuel but also reduce the risk of accidents that might require our bodywork expertise. If you do find yourself in need of support after ... read more

You can think of your vehicle’s paint as its skin. Just like how we have to protect our skin from harm, we have to do the same for our car’s paint. The first step in protecting your car’s paint is to recognize what you should avoid, as a car-owner. The team at Robert’s Collision & Repair has compiled a list of what you should be wary of:   Sun: Just like our skin, the sun’s UV rays can cause severe damage to your vehicle’s paint. In the hot sun, your car’s paint actually expands, which means it can absorb more dirt and grime. Bird droppings: Not only do bird droppings look less than pleasant, they are also harmful to our car’s paint. In fact, they are very acidic, so they are able to easily erode paint and clear-coat finishes quite easily. Tree Sap: It is easy to see why sap is an enemy to our car’s paint. It is sticky, difficult to remove, and an absolute magnet for ... 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