Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

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

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

Technology is a wonderful thing, especially when it comes to your car. Here are a few smartphone apps that are designed to help you out with your vehicle.   RepairPal is designed to help you find a trustworthy auto repair shop. Of course, Robert’s Collision & Repair is proud to be listed on RepairPal.   GasBuddy helps you locate the cheapest gas near you. Plus you get the chance to win $100 in free gas daily.   greenMeter is an app that measures your vehicle’s power and fuel usage to show you how efficiently you are driving, your fuel consumption, and your impact on the environment.   Dynolicious Fusion is an app for gear heads that allows you to measure your 0-60 mph results. It’s fun if you like to test your power when you punch the gas. &nb ... 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

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! :-)

If you want to see the full schedule for Monterey Car Week, click here for the official website. However, if you want tips on how to enjoy Auto Week on a budget, watch this helpful video: 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

Summer is here, and nothing adds to a road trip better than awesome music! These are our five favorite songs about cars. Enjoy! :-) #5 -- “I Can’t Drive 55” by Sammy Hagar#4 -- “Panama” by Van Halen#3 -- “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman#2 -- “The Distance” by Cake#1 -- “Drive My Car” by The Beatles If you need auto body, mechanical repair, tire service, detailing service, or auto paint service on your vehicles, 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

Want to save money at the gas pump? Aside from shopping around town for the lowest gas prices, we have found a great video that gives some extra money saving tips. Summertime is when we typically see gas prices climb up high, and after all, who doesn’t want to save money at the pump? Here are eight secret gas saving tips that could help your car avoid guzzling precious fuel too fast. Want to make certain your vehicle is running as efficiently as possible? Robert’s Collision & Repair is here to help. We invite you to visit us at Robert’s Collision & Repair, 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. Our shop is located just off Highway 1 at the Del Monte Blvd. Pacific Grove exit. Call us today at 831-373-1534 to schedule an appointment

Want to know more about how your vehicle works? Here are some helpful videos that will educate you about your car and make you a smarter driver. Enjoy! How Does Your Internal Combustion Engine Work? How To Check Your Oil Level and Other Car Fluids How To Change a Flat Tire How To Tow a Camper Trailer How To Drive a Manual Transmission How To Check Your Tires Would you like to make sure everything on your vehicle is working properly? Robert’s Collision & Repair is here to help. We offer full auto body repair, mechanical repair, tire service, detailing service, and auto paint service for your vehicles. 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

Throughout Summer, drivers tend to travel more. Whether driving around town or while on vacation, here are some helpful tips to avoid Summer traffic accidents: Do Not Text & Drive -- It’s against the law and very unsafe. Drive Hands Free While Talking on the Phone -- It is against the law to use handheld cellphones while driving. Do Not Drink & Drive -- Assign a designated driver if necessary. Do Not Drive While Sleepy -- When you feel tired, pull over in a safe place and take a nap. Do Not Drive While Medicated -- Heavy medications + driving can be bad news, so get another person to drive you. Pay Special Attention to Pedestrians, Bicyclists, Skateboarders, and Elderly Drivers -- They are everywhere, and they can pop up out of nowhere to surprise you. Give them the right of way at intersections, crosswalks, and bicycle lanes. When you see an elderly driver who is driving slower than you’d prefer, slow down and have patience. You, too, will grow older, and you, t ... read more

To celebrate our nation’s freedom and Independence Day, we thought it would be fun to list the top ten American cars for patriotic drivers. If the weekend’s festivities, apple pie, and fireworks inspired you to buy a new ride, here are some vehicles to consider that are made in the U.S.A. Ford Mustang Coupe Chevrolet Silverado Truck Dodge Challenger Coupe Cadillac XTS Sedan GMC Yukon SUV Ram 1500 Truck Hyundai Sonata Sedan Jeep Patriot SUV Toyota Camry Sedan Acura ILX Sedan Of course, you can purchase these patriotic vehicles new or used. To us, it doesn’t matter...as long as you are happy with your ride. However, if your American made vehicle needs service, auto body repair, maintenance, tire service, detailing, or paint, we are happy to help at Robert’s Collision & Repair in Monterey. We are located just off Highway 1 at the Del Monte Blvd. Pacific Grove exit. Our shop address is 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940, and the cross street is Del Monte Blvd. Call ... read more

Robert’s Collision & Repair is the premier auto repair center on the Monterey Peninsula for a good reason: Excellent Auto Repair Processes. To the average customer, what they see at an auto repair facility is how well the staff interacts with them, that they drop off their vehicle in one condition, and that they pick up their vehicle in better condition. However, there is so much more that goes into the auto repair process. From simple mechanical repair to extensive auto body repair, Robert’s Collision & Repair is always striving to excel in the following processes: Communication at each step of the repair to keep customers informed. Documented workflow processes to make the repair work more efficient. Checklists and verification processes with each step of the process. Clear internal communication dealing with everyday issues and case-specific challenges. Two way communication with each Insurance company to make certain the customer gets the best possible aut ... read more

For those of us living on the Monterey Peninsula, it’s sometimes easy to forget how hot it can get during Summer. While we live in the overcast world of “June Gloom”, thousands of visitors from the Central Valley, Texas, and other hot climates are flocking to our cool peninsula. If you are planning a Summer road trip to an area within California or the United States that has temperatures in the 100s, here are four tips to prepare your vehicle for the extreme heat: Park in the shade when possible. This will keep your car cooler -- both inside the car and within the engine compartment. Extreme heat will make your battery lose power faster, so do your best to keep your car cool. Protect your engine from overheating. Make certain your engine has fresh, clean oil, the fluids are topped off, the belts and hoses are in good condition, and that any worn parts have been replaced. Protecting your engine before you hit the road will reduce your vehicle’s risk of an inconvenient breakdown ... read more

Summertime is always a busy time for auto shows here on the Monterey Peninsula. Mark your calendars! Here are some upcoming car shows you won’t want to miss: Capitola Car Show -- June 6 - 7, 2015 Just to the north of us, but still on the Monterey Bay, Capitola hosts its annual Rod and Custom Classic Car Show. Over 300 hot rods, muscle cars, vintage coupes, roadsters, and classics drive along the coast and shine in the sun along Capitola Beach. http://www.capitolacarshow.com/ FIM Superbike World Championship / GEICO Motorcycle U.S. Round -- July 17 - 19, 2015 If you’re into sport bikes and racing, you don’t want to miss the high rev excitement at Laguna Seca. This famous Mazda Raceway is known around the world for its tough track, and there are plenty of motorcycle and auto races going on through Summer. http://www.mazdaraceway.com/events Monterey Car Week -- August 10 - 16, 2015 This is the ... read more

Do my parts come already painted from the factory? Some do, some don’t. Some parts, like bumpers and moldings come painted from the dealers, but some are blanks that need to be painted. However, if the painted part comes already painted, there is no guarantee that it’ll match the paint on your car. Sometimes it is better to mix the paint from scratch to match the tint and shade of your vehicle as closely as possible, especially if your vehicle has been weathered or faded over time. Can I get pre-mixed paints from the factory? The factory does offer touch up paint, but that is intended for very small areas. You will not save money or time by purchasing pre-mixed paint from the factory because the weathering or fading of your vehicle’s paint may change the tint of the original color. That is why it is important to have an expert auto body painter mix and match the paint to the same shade on your vehicle. If you were to go ahead and put pre-mixed factory paint on your ... read more

Not sure when you replace your tires? Here are some tips that will help you determine when your tires should be repaired or replaced. Step 1: Check your tires periodically for wear. We understand that you probably don’t look at your tires very often, but it’s a good habit to get into. If you look at them regularly, you will have an easier time discerning whether the tires are in good shape or if a problem is developing. Step 2: Recognize what’s going on with your tire wear. Do any of your tires look like this? If yes, it’s time to replace your tires. Step 3: How is the tire tread holding up? If you can stick a penny in between the tire tread and Lincoln’s head is covered, your tires still have plenty of tread. However, if you stick the penny in between the tread and you can clearly see Lincoln’s head, your tires need to be replaced. Step 4: Do you see any signs of bubbling, cupping, or bulging in your tires? If yes, your tires are at risk of blowing ou ... read more

Everyone should know how to change a tire, even if they are lucky enough to never have to. Knowing how to change a flat tire is one of those life skills that is right up there with knowing how to administer CPR, and knowing how to swim. Even if you already know how to change a tire and it has been a while since you have had to do it, here is a helpful reminder. Step 1: Pull over to a safe spot off the road. Try to head for a well lit area that is far enough away from moving traffic. Step 2: Turn on your hazard lights. Not only will this safety feature let other drivers know that your vehicle is stranded, but it may also summon help from other passersby. Step 3: Look for the tire changing tools in your vehicle, often stored near the spare tire in the trunk area. Grab the wrench and use it to loosen the lug nuts on the tire. Step 4: Use the jack to lift the vehicle off the ground. Follow jack directions accordingly to ensure safety. Step 5: Remov ... read more

Is a visual inspection better than a notice generated by your vehicle’s computer? Yes, and no. Both are important aspects of auto repair, and both have their advantages. Ideally, you should combine the two for a thorough inspection and assessment of your vehicle’s safety. Computer notifications are great, because they notify you -- assuming you have a newer car with a system display or readout -- when your tires are low, your engine needs service, your air filters need to be replaced, your oil needs changing, etc. Take a Mini Cooper Countryman, for example. The display will show green tires if the tire pressure is good, and red tires if the tire pressure is too low. Additionally, when you take your car into Robert’s Collision & Repair for service, its computer will give our technicians a readout of things to check. Using the Mini Cooper Countryman example again, the computer notified our staff that the brake pads may need to be replaced. Computer notifications are a good thing ... read more

When engines do their job of producing mechanical power, they produce heat. When the heat builds up too high, it can cause problems for the engine, causing a breakdown. The cooling system in your vehicle is designed to temper the heat that comes from the engine by transferring it to the air. Therefore, it’s the cooling system that allows your vehicle to maintain a moderate temperature while you’re speeding down the freeway. Interestingly enough, your engine needs to run at a moderate heat, for if it is running too hot or too cold, components can wear out faster, it operates less efficiently, and it emits more pollution. So, a cooling system doesn’t make your engine run cold, per se, but at a constant, optimal temperature. But, what happens if you neglect your coolant system? It will eventually fail, and that could mean anything from a inconvenient breakdown on the side of the road, or major engine “meltdown”. Your car’s cooling system is made up of multiple parts that operate independ ... read more

When was the last time you treated your vehicle to a thorough Spring Cleaning? Now, when we say Spring Cleaning, we mean the following: Complete interior and exterior detailing Factory-recommended maintenance service and repair Dent repair, scratch removal, windshield repair, and paint touch ups Oftentimes, we overlook the deeper aesthetics of our vehicles. Beyond a car wash, most people don’t have their vehicles fully detailed and restored to a level that make the car look like it just rolled off the showroom floor. Admittedly, detailing costs more than a gas station car wash by a longshot, but the results are night and day! If you go with the Ultimate Facial for Exterior Paint package for $250, plus the Complete Carpet and Seat Shampoo for $85.00, your vehicle is going to be ready to compete in a car show! If you would like more information about our detailing services, contact us at 831-373-1535. We will be happy to schedule an appointment and take a look at how much Spring Cle ... read more

At the Hyatt Regency Monterey, there was a gathering that we wish we could have attended. It was the 2015 Western Automotive Journalists Media Days conference, April 6 - 8, and it was a blend of the folks who write about cars and the manufacturers. Those lucky ducks had the opportunity to do an on and off road ride and drive, plus a day at the Laguna Seca racetrack. Suddenly, we all wished we were the esteemed journalists who work for the world’s top auto magazines! Though we could not attend the event -- we don’t belong to that industry and we weren’t invited, as much as we would like to -- there are several auto trends happening in 2015 that are changing the way we drive, slowly but surely. Small but Flexible Crossovers: In 2015, we see a growing number of compact car-based sport utility vehicles. Auto brands like Jeep, Honda, Mazda, and Mini are rolling out these vehicles and t ... read more

Cars need a lot of maintenance to keep them up and running. From windshield wiper blades to tires, our cars require tons of TLC. One of the most vital aspects of our vehicle’s engine is its fluids. Luckily, it is quite simple to monitor these fluids. Most of the time, all you need to do is lift up your hood and have a look. Checking your vehicle’s fluids on a regular basis is guaranteed to save you time and money down the road. Which fluids should I check? Here are five of your engine’s fluids you should make a habit of checking: Engine Oil Check your oil once a month. Check out your owner’s manual to know when to have the oil replaced. Timeframes depend on the car. Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid should be checked monthly. It should be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Coolant Coolant should be checked twice yearly, before summer and before winter. It needs to be replaced every 2 to 3 years. Brake Fluid You should check this once a month. Brake fluid needs ... read more

Big Sur / Highway 1 Carmel By-The-Sea 17 Mile Drive Carmel Valley Wine Tasting River Road Wine Tasting Looking for something fun to do this weekend? What about a road trip around Monterey? Monterey has such beautiful scenery. Why not enjoy it? Here are the top 5 road trips: Big Sur / Highway 1: Highway 1 is an estimated 85 miles of lush, beautiful, and unique scenery. To many, Big Sur right next to New York Times Squares in a list of must-sees in America. Luckily for us, Big Sur is basically in our backyard. Carmel-By-The-Sea: Carmel-By-The-Sea is a beautiful, quaint town. Take a drive by Carmel Beach, or even visit the historic Carmel Mission. 17 Mile Drive: Pebble Beach is world-famous for it’s breathtaking 17 Mile Drive. The drive hugs the beautiful Pacific coastline. You and your family will be able to take a look at the famous Lone Cypress tree or Bird Rock. Carmel Valley Wine Tasting: Carmel Valley is full of delectable wine tasting spots. From the elegant Chateau Juli ... read more

To say the least, getting into an auto accident can be stressful. There is a lot to think about it, and there can be a lot to take care of. At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we are here to help. From the moment you step inside our doors, we will evaluate, diagnose, and repair your vehicle. You will be informed every step of the way. Our team will work side-by-side with your insurance company to make sure everything runs smoothly. Actually, many insurance companies, including Farmer’s and Geico, have us on their preferred vendor list. Check out this review from one of our clients, Danielle J. Unfortunately, she was involved in auto accident, but our team was able to help get her back on the road. Here is her 5-star review from yelp.com: “I was referred to Robert's by an insurance company. I was driving on the freeway and I was rear-ended by a Geico policy holder. I was fortunate enough to have a very painless process while dealing with Roberts's. They took care of everything. From ... read more

A text message flashes on our phone. We think to ourselves “oh, it will only take me seconds to respond to that message. What can happen in that short time? “ The reality is a lot can happen in those mere seconds. If you are driving at 55mph, you can travel the length of a football field in no more than five seconds. Imagine what can happen in that distance. It is quite difficult to stay off your phone while driving. It is a lot easier said than done. If you are having problems with this, try one of these tips: Put your cell phone out of reach, such as in your glove box or trunk. It can be as easy turning your phone or putting it on silence. We recommend doing this before even turning your car on. Designate a texter. If you are driving with friends or family, assign someone the task of replying to any important texts you receive. This texter should hold your phone, read any message when it arrives, and reply according to your instructions. Get an app. Many apps have been developed ... read more

A good mechanic can be your car’s best friend, but a bad mechanic can be an absolute horror. When our car has a problem, we turn to our mechanic. Our mechanics should be able to quickly diagnose the problem, and in turn, tell us how they are able to fix it. Next, mechanics should fix the problem safely and efficiently and have us back on the road in no time. Basically, we think a good mechanic should have these qualities: Excellent customer service skills: Mechanics should be able to communicate effectively to clients what the problem, along with soothing any worries and answering any questions that arise along the way. Strong communication skills: A car’s engine is definitely a complex piece of machinery. A good mechanic should be able to translate into plain English what the problem is, why it happened, and how they are going to fix it. Superb work ethic: A good mechanic should have an excellent work ethic. They should be devoted to solving the problem as soon as possible ... read more

Made out of heavy plastic paper, air filters are an impressive piece of technology. Air is allowed to pass through into your engine, but not pesky dust and debris. Think of an air filter as a shield. Air filters are considered an essential part of your car’s fuel supply system. A properly working air filter equates with an excellent fuel economy, and a damaged air filter equates with dirty gas. How often should I replace my air filter? This depends on your climate and driving conditions. If you spend a lot of time driving on dirty, dusty roads, you will need to replace your air filter more often. If you drive more often on paved roads, you can replace it less. However, here are a few guidelines to follow: Replace your air filter every other oil change. Replace your air filter once a year. Replace your air filter every 30,000 miles. By the way, air filters are not the only things that need to be changed or replaced periodically. Robert’s Collision & Repair is offerin ... read more

We keep our owners’ manual in our glove box for safekeeping. We may look at it time to time to answer one of our questions. However, most of us do not take advantage of this wealth of knowledge. The owners’ manual is full of beneficial, useful information. What are some cool things inside my owners’ manual? Take a look at this list: Is your vehicle equipped with remote vehicle start? In other words, can your vehicle’s engine be started from the outside? The answer will be found in your owners’ manual. You may be able to lock or unlock your vehicle from the outside. Have you ever looked a symbol in your car and wondered what it exactly meant? The owners’ manual has this information. You can learn how to store a favorite radio station. Most owner manuals even have tips on how to achieve a better fuel economy, and what type of gas works best for your vehicle. Learn how to enable safety locks in the passenger and back seats of your car. Did you know that some vehicles have v ... read more

The Importance of Regular Vehicle Maintenance While having a roadside emergency kit is crucial for handling unexpected situations, preventing breakdowns in the first place is even better. Regular vehicle maintenance plays a significant role in ensuring your car operates smoothly and reduces the likelihood of encountering roadside emergencies. Here are some key maintenance tasks to prioritize: Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are essential for keeping your engine lubricated and functioning optimally. Check your owner's manual for the recommended oil change intervals and stick to them diligently. Tire Checks: Proper tire maintenance involves checking tire pressure regularly, inspecting for signs of wear or damage, and rotating tires according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This helps prevent blowouts and ensures optimal traction on the road. Brake Inspection: Brakes are critical for your safety on the road. Have your brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid checked regular ... read more

Headlights and taillights are vital to you and your family’s safety. If a tail light or headlight goes out, we don’t lose immediate control of our vehicle. However, our safety is still compromised. The headlights and taillights are just as crucial as your vehicle’s brakes or tires to your overall safety. The million dollar question: when should I have my vehicle’s lighting system replaced? Unfortunately, there is not a specific timeline on when you should have your lights replaced. When you bring your vehicle into Robert’s Auto Repair for maintenance, we will make sure to inspect your vehicle’s lights. Most drivers are aware when their headlights or taillights burn out, but what about all those other lights you need to drive safely? Don’t worry, the team at Robert’s Collision and Repair will thoroughly inspect your vehicle’s entire lighting system. We will inspect and replace, if needed, the following lights: Headlamps Taillights Reverse lights Brake and high mount lights Blinker ... read more

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