Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

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

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

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

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

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

It’s September, and it’s time to consider an oil change for your vehicle as we enter into Autumn. One of the best ways to extend the life of your vehicle is to give it regular oil changes. For many vehicles, oil changes are recommended every 3 months / 3,000 miles as part of a regular car maintenance regimen. If your vehicle uses synthetic oil, you may want to change your oil every 6 months / 6,000 miles. To be sure, look up the recommended oil change schedule in the Owners’ Manual of your vehicle, or give us a call at 831-373-1534. You can expect fast & dependable oil changes and car maintenance services at Robert’s Collision & Repair in Monterey, backed up by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Why else should you come to us for your next oil change? We are officially a Green Shop. We can perform your Scheduled Maintenance and still maintain your Factory Warranty. We have a new, state-of-the-art paint and auto body shop. We also offer detailing and tire service. We look forward ... read more

Now that school is starting up again, there are some helpful auto tips for your college-bound kids that will keep them and their cars out of harm’s way. Here are six tips that will help your college-age children feel more confident about handling car problems while they’re away from home. 1. Know how to change a flat tire. -- This is a skill every driver should have, both young and old. 2. Know how to check your oil level and other engine fluids. -- If you learn to check your fluid levels yourself, you can better monitor your car’s health and need for service. 3. Know what your tire pressure should be. -- This video demonstrates how to find this information on your tires. 4. Know how often your vehicle needs an oil change, minor service, and major service. -- Every car is different, so it’s best to check your owners’ manual. 5. Know how to drive a manual transmission. -- This is a handy skill that will allow you to drive any vehicle. ... read more

The Labor Day holiday marks the final days of Summer. For many families, it’s that last chance to go on a road trip before school kicks into high gear. Many people will be hitting the road over the Labor Day weekend, so here are a few safe driving tips to keep in mind. Make sure you have a first aid kit stashed somewhere in your vehicle, just in case someone needs to mend a “boo-boo”. Traffic is going to be heavy, so try to hit the road earlier or later than everyone else. Make sure your tires have plenty of tread, are properly inflated, and that your spare tire is ready to be used at a moment’s notice. To get more fuel into your gas tank, try to fill up with gas in the early morning before the day gets hot. Be sure to pack lots of drinking water in the car so you and your passengers stay hydrated. Pack a few healthy snacks, too. For antsy children, bring some games or toys along to keep them occupied. Carry traveling pillows so your passengers can sleep more comfortably dur ... read more

Many of our clients ask if generic parts are inferior in quality to OEM (original equipment manufacturers) parts. The answer may surprise you. CAPA sets stringent standards for generic or competitive auto repair parts. That means the generic parts are tested for rust resistance, metal composition, welds, screws, and resistance to chipping & scratching before they are allowed to become CAPA-certified parts. Others ask if generic parts are unsafe. Whether parts are generic or OEM, crash parts do not affect the safety of the vehicle. With that said, crash tests performed by the critics of generic parts have shown that these parts perform no differently than OEM parts. All generic parts must pass the stringent tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. So, any generic part that successfully makes it to market is deemed safe. Lastly, we are asked if generic parts can invalidate the OEM warranties on other parts, or on the vehicle itself. The answer is no. When a cra ... read more

Need a rental car? Enterprise and Robert’s Collision & Repair have teamed up to make sure you have a set of wheels to get around...even when your vehicle is in for repair. Enterprise Rent-A-Car is located only a few blocks from Robert’s Collision & Repair. If you require a rental car, our partnership can make certain your rental vehicle is delivered to our facility at 234 Ramona Avenue in Monterey. Or, if you prefer, we can shuttle you to the Enterprise office, located at 1178 Del Monte Ave. If you have questions about renting a vehicle from Enterprise, you are welcome to call them directly at (831) 649-6300. Whether you need a rental car or just a quick ride to your work or home, we’re here to help. Whatever your auto body or mechanical repair needs, Robert’s Collision & Repair is here to make things easier for you. If your vehicle has been involved in an accident or requires regular maintenance service, schedule an appointment with us online or by calling 831-373-1534. We ... read more

It’s time, and we’re off to a “good start”. Get ready for Auto Week on the Monterey Peninsula! This blog is designed to direct you to the scheduled events throughout the week of August 11th through the 17th. Tuesday, 8/12/14
* Automobilia Monterey
Tuesday, August 12, 2014: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Location: The Embassy Suites - 1441 Canyon Del Rey
Admission: Check website for prices * Concours on the Avenue
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Location: Ocean Avenue, Carmel-By-The-Sea
Admission: Free Wednesday, 8/13/14
* Automobilia Monterey
Wednesday, August 13, 2014: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Location: The Embassy Suites - 1441 Canyon Del Rey
Admission: Check website for prices * Gordon McCall's Motorworks Revival 2014
Wednesday, August 13, 2014: 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Location: Monterey Jet Center Admission: Check website for prices * Monterey Car Week Rally
Wednesday, August 13, 2014: 11:30 am
Location: Shoreline Community














... read more

Robert’s Collision & Repair is a preferred repair vendor of GEICO, and we are proud to have a GEICO representative conveniently located on-site. That means if you are a GEICO insurance customer and you want a quick and easy collision repair process for your vehicle, Robert’s Collision & Repair has taken care of the details for you. GEICO is a trusted auto insurance provider and they can process your auto collision claim for you from start to finish. For more information, call Robert’s Collision & Repair at 831-373-1535 to schedule an appointment, or go online at https://www.geico.com/ to get started. To better understand what to expect from Robert’s Collision & Repair when you come in for auto body shop service, here is a helpful video that shows an overview of our repair process

If you love to enter your vehicle into classic car shows, your ride needs to look spectacular. Many auto collectors on the Monterey Peninsula bring their classic automobiles to Robert’s Collision & Repair to spiff up their vehicles. If you are new to prepping your vehicle for the summertime auto shows, here are some tips to get your vehicle ready: Mechanical maintenance-- If your vehicle is in top operating order, it will not fail you as you drive to and fro the auto show. Recently we saw a beautiful classic car stalled on the side of the road, and we felt sorry for the owner. Anything can happen with classic vehicles, so it’s best to make sure everything is in working order before you head to the show. If you come to Robert’s Collision & Repair, we will be happy to offer a free safety inspection with every oil change. Detail work-- Our detailing team does a terrific job of making the paint job on your vehicle look beautiful. From a bas ... read more

Are you and your family thinking about a Summer Road Trip? Here are the top 10 road trips in America, according to Forbes Magazine. Pacific Coast Highway, California -- The winding roads along California's Highway 1 provide unbeatable views of the Pacific Ocean. Lucky for us, we live here and can drive this amazing highway any time we wish. Some of the most scenic parts are right here in Monterey County! Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park, Montana -- This 50-mile road in northwest Montana is a National Historic Landmark and cuts Glacier National Park in half. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina -- This road trip is a must for folks who like to view the beauty of Fall foliage. Olympic Peninsula, Washington -- Loop around the Olympic Peninsula to take in the picturesque shorelines and waterfalls of Washington state, as well as the snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mount ... read more

To help insurance companies recognize that Robert’s Auto Repair is a leading auto body and mechanical repair shop in Monterey County, we have made a small change to our name: Robert’s Collision & Repair Yes, it’s official! We are now known as Robert’s Collision & Repair, but our domain name will remain the same at www.roberts-autorepair.com. As always, you can find us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Yelp, and YouTube, too. Here are the links to our pages: Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/RobertsAutoRepairCATwitter:https://twitter.com/RobertsAutoGoogle+:https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/102203228151382883620/+RobertsAutoRepairMonterey/postsY ... read more

With gas prices continually increasing, stretch your summertime fuel economy by following these three tips to improve your gas mileage: Replace your air filter. Keep your tires properly inflated. Use the recommended grade of oil for your vehicle. For most drivers, your vehicle is one of your most valuable personal investments. With routine maintenance, you can extend the safety and life of your vehicle. If you take good care of your vehicle, it will have a better chance to take care of you and your family. Avoid catastrophic engine failure and breakdowns with regular maintenance and repair. To schedule your maintenance appointment, contact Robert’s Auto Repair at 831-373-1534. We are open from 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM every Monday through Friday, except major holidays. Robert’s Auto Repair is conveniently located off Highway 1 at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. We look forward to serving you soon

Robert’s Auto Repair is offering two money saving specials that expire Sunday, July 6, 2014! Take advantage of these special offers by mentioning this blog article when you make your appointment. Fuel Saver Special -- $40 Off Have you taken advantage of the Fuel Saver Special at Robert’s Auto Repair? It is a terrific service that helps stretch the fuel economy of your vehicle. Here is what the Robert’s Auto Repair Fuel Saver Special includes: Fuel system cleaning Factory scheduled maintenance review Inflate tire pressure to manufacture specs Check air filter Right now, our Fuel Saver Special is offered with a $40 discount, but here are the stipulations: Offer expires 7/6/14. Offer applies to most vehicles. Tax and shop supplies cost extra. To take advantage of this special, you must mention this blog article at the time of your appointment. Oil Change -- $5 Off We are sure you’ll agree that cha ... read more

“It looks kind of small,” she said. “I think we’ll be cramped.” “No, it’s not”, I replied. “Here, get in and I’ll show you.” As my friend and I embarked on a recent road trip in my Mini Cooper Countryman, I showed her how MINIs are the ideal road trip car. I’m a firm believer that MINIs are the best cars for a road trip, and I have the Mini Cooper history to back me up. Why are MINIs the best road trip cars? Here are seven reasons why, as explained on the MINI USA website: MINIs were first designed to be affordable, gas-sipping British automobiles that helped their owners endure the oil crisis. The two most important innovations that were built into the MINI were designed to give more room in the 4-person cockpit: 1) the wheels were pushed all the way out to the corners, and 2) the engine was turned sideways to give the car more stability in tight turns. The unique combination of classic British style in a low-cost, small size, fun and nimble package came to symbolize independence an ... read more

  Since BMW is the manufacturer of Mini Coopers, this advice is helpful for the owners of both vehicle brands. To help shed some light on how often BMW and Mini drivers should maintain their vehicles, our Master BMW Technician, David Robinson, offers some helpful advice: As a rule of thumb, the following timeline/mileage is used for maintenance on BMWs & MINIs: Engine oil & filter + cabin filter replacement = 15,000 miles/1 year (Personally, I tell my friends & family every 6 months to ensure oil is clean of grime & vapors, which can cause seals & gaskets to harden). On MINI Coopers, I recommend replacing the oil drain plug with every oil service (about $5.00). The nylon seal is embedded into the oil drain plug and has a tendency to not seal as well if re-used. Engine intake air filter replacement = 50,000 miles. Transmission ... read more

  Robert’s Auto Repair is proud to announce that we have two Master BMW Technicians on our staff, and to commemorate our good fortune, we will be celebrating the esteemed automaker, Bavarian Motor Works, throughout the month of May. To begin, here are some things you may or may not know about BMWs: BMW stands for “Bayerische Motoren Werke”. However, according to the late, great Bob Marley, he was a longtime BMW fan and owner because in his mind, BMW stood for “Bob Marley and the Whalers”. BMW is the parent company that owns the Rolls-Royce and Mini brands. The roundel logo represents both their days making airplanes and looks like a spinning propeller, but also represents the Bavarian flag. BMW began as an airplane manufacturer in 1917, but after the Versailles Treaty was signed in 1918, they diversified and began making motorcycles; then later, automobiles. The kidney shaped grill that you see on all BMW automobiles was ... read more

This is a question asked often at Robert’s Auto Repair, and the answer depends on your insurance company and your specific auto insurance policy. When you come to Robert’s Auto Repair, here’s how we interact with your auto insurance company during the course of the auto body repair: Generally when you have a claim, you will contact the insurance company and they will issue you a claim number, and let you know what your deductible is. After you receive your claim number, you have the right to go to any auto body repair shop of your choice for estimates and/or repair. Once you choose your auto body shop, you may get started with the repair. If you were to come to us, our estimators will assess the car’s damage and take photos documenting what auto body work needs to take place. We will report to your insurance company our full estimates of the repair cost and will come to an agreement with them about what will be repaired. If your insurance company comes back to us saying that they disag ... read more

Your vehicle’s windshield is designed to provide you with a clear view of the road and surrounding elements. A windshield is designed to be very strong, made like a sandwich of two layers of glass with a vinyl layer in between. Sometimes the windshield will get damaged due to small pebbles cracking the glass or major auto collisions that destroy it. When your vehicle’s windshield is damaged, here is what you should know about windshield repair versus windshield replacement. Windshield Repair: If you have a small scratch, ding, or chip, your windshield can simply be repaired. The auto body technicians at Robert’s Auto Repair will use vacuums and resin to remove air from the damaged area and fill it with resin to seal the crack. The resin is clear and becomes invisible, allowing the windshield to be restored and roadworthy. Windshield Replacement: If you have a large crack or major breaks in your windshield, your vehicle will require a windshield replacement. A windshield replacement inv ... read more

There have been some major automobile crashes that have occurred around the Monterey Bay and Monterey County in recent years. A lot of them are caused by texting. Here is a slideshow we found about some of the worst accidents that sadly, often ended with fatalities: Major Crashes on the Central Coast There is a major campaign to stop texting while driving. There are many statistics that support the fact that texting while driving kills, and here is an informative graphic that talks about it. If you are in an auto accident, Robert’s Auto Repair is here to help rebuild your vehicle and restore it to like-new condition. To schedule an appointment with our auto body service representatives, call us at (831) 373-1535, or request your preferred time online. Robert’s Auto Repair is conveniently located at 234 Ramona Avenue ... read more

Your vehicle’s airbag system is one of the more important safety components of your automobile. Airbags are deployed upon impact and can protect you and your passengers from fatal blows during an accident. Airbags have saved thousands of lives, but in order to do so, they must be checked and maintained on a regular basis. The most important parts of the success of the airbag system are the crash sensors, and these sensors need to be checked by a certified mechanic. There are two types of airbag sensors in cars: electrical and mechanical. According to this article: “Electrical sensors vary in design. Some use an electromechanical "ball and tube" mechanism, which basically consists of a small tube containing a circuit switch and ball that's held together by a small magnet. If a collision occurs, the ball is dislodged from the magnet and rolls forward in the tube, hitting a switch tha ... read more

Bluetooth devices offer an additional level of safety to automobile drivers, and this is a wonderful thing! In fact, Robert’s Auto Repair is happy to say that we have seen fewer auto body repairs in our shop thanks to Bluetooth devices, and that is a win-win for everyone. Bluetooth devices help improve safety by allowing drivers to talk on their cell phones and still keep both hands on the steering wheel. Bluetooth wireless technology not only keeps drivers and their passengers safer, but they also reduce fines from law enforcement agencies. Bluetooth technology is becoming more common in new vehicles, and can be installed in older vehicles, too. Here are some of the ways you can use Bluetooth in your personal or work vehicle: Visor speakerphone. These are often battery powered and automatically connect to your cellular phone when you enter the vehicle. No special installation is required. Wireless Earpieces. These take just moments to set up. The devices also help drivers comply with ... read more

Did you know that when you bring your vehicle in for any type of service, including oil changes, we perform a complimentary Multi Point Preventative Maintenance Inspection? This is a courtesy we do every day at Robert’s Auto Repair, and we do it to make sure everything on your vehicle is operating properly. Here is a list of what the Multi Point Preventative Maintenance Inspection includes: Headlights / Taillights / Brake lights / Hazard lights / Turn signals Interior light Windshield washers and wipers Parking brake Horn Clutch Micron cabin filter Battery check Check fluid levels Air filter Belts and hoses Hydraulic clutch reservoir fluid Brake lines and hoses Shocks and struts / Suspension / Gears / Seals Exhaust system Engine oil / fluid leaks Boots and bands Tire wear Brake condition With this inspection, we mark down if these various parts are working satisfactory, may require future attention, or require immediate attention. It’s just another way we communicate with our clients ... read more

Many people assume that when they wash their cars, a simple vacuum of the interior and a washing of the exterior is all that is required. While a quick vacuum and exterior wash is easy and fast, it is also important to occasionally deep clean with a seat and flooring shampoo. On average, we spend 20% of our time inside cars and this is the reason why car seats go through constant wear and tear. Deep cleaning of car seats is a must on a regular basis, especially if you spend a lot of time eating and drinking if your vehicle. Additionally, if you have kids, pets, or both, a shampoo of the seats and floors will remove stains, pet hair, dirt, and other grime that gets tracked into your vehicle. Robert’s Auto Repair offers two shampoo packages, and these packages are at a flat rate, regardless if your vehicle has cloth seats, leather seats, or vinyl seats. The first package is our Complete Carpet OR Seat Shampoo for just $50.00. The second package is the Complete Carpet AND Seat Shampoo for ... read more

When people buy a new car, they often bring it to Robert’s Auto Repair right away for an Ultimate Facial. This is our premier detailing service that includes a complete micro buff, Clay Magic, and complete Carnauba Wax for just $250. Many people ask us, “Why would I give my brand new car an Ultimate Facial? The paint is perfect already as it is.” The reason many people choose the Ultimate Facial for Exterior Paint is that it protects your car’s paint for up to two years. It seals the paint and reduces the risk of scratches and color fade. Why does Robert’s Auto Repair use Carnauba Wax? Carnauba wax is the preferred car wax of collectors and concours enthusiasts because it creates a rich, warm glow. It doesn’t appear to sit on the paint. It transforms the paint into a deep, liquid pool that shimmers under changing light conditions. The more carnauba wax, the more shine. Even if you purchase a used vehicle, the Ultimate Facial for Exterior Paint will make your “new” used car look shiny a ... read more

Thanks to the low amount of rainfall this Winter, the Monterey Peninsula is now at a “Stage 1” alert of its water conservation and rationing plan. Restrictions in Stage 1 are minor, but many of us want to cut back on our water consumption as we watch this drought progress. To help save water, here are some tips on conserving water when washing your car, truck, SUV, motorcycle, RV, or van: Water your plants and wash your car at the same time by washing vehicles on grass or gravel, not pavement. Not only will you help recharge the groundwater, but the water won’t be running over the pavement and down the storm drains. Use a bucket with soapy water to wash your car instead of a running hose. A bucket helps you conserve water better. When you use a hose, make sure it has a spray nozzle that shuts off while not in use. A hose can use 100 gallons of water during a 10 minute car wash, and a spray nozzle can reduce that water waste down to 10 gallons. Consider taking your vehicle to a profess ... read more

Here on the Monterey Peninsula, we have a few windy roads that go through the hills and peaks. Not everyone is familiar or comfortable driving on mountain roads, so here are a few safety tips from Roadtrip America that can help prevent accidents: Make sure that your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater, and exhaust systems are in good condition. Don't go down a mountain road any faster than you can go up it. On steep upgrades, downshift to a lower gear, watch the temperature gauge in your vehicle, and turn off the air-conditioning if it starts to overheat. Don't "hug" the center line. DON’T EVER CROSS THE CENTER LINE or you could find yourself in a head-on collision!!! Always remember that the car going UPHILL should be given the right of way. Slowing down for any reason, whether it's to view scenery or because of a steep grade, is acceptable road behavior, as long as you maintain awareness. Always carry extr ... read more

For many of us who get motion sickness, we are dumbfounded as to why we get that way. We recently came across a great video that explains why we get carsick: To avoid getting carsick, here are a few tips: Sit in the front seat when possible. Have ginger candies on hand. Roll down the windows for fresh air. When possible, go to sleep. Avoid reading while riding in a car. Avoid riding backwards. Have plenty of drinking water available. To avoid vomiting, try not to eat too much before or during a road trip. Although we cannot prevent car sickness, we can make certain your vehicle is roadworthy and safe. To schedule your pre-road trip safety inspection, contact Robert’s Auto Repair at (831) 373-1534. We are conveniently located near Highway 1 and Del Monte Blvd. at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. We look forward to serving you soon! &nbsp

Road trips are big adventures for kids, and they can create unforgettable memories. To make a road trip remain pleasurable for the duration of the trip, here are some road trip games for kids that will keep them entertained and occupied while you travel: “I Spy” is a road trip game that has withstood the test of time. “I spy with my little eye, something red.” This easy-to-learn game is perfect for preschoolers, and can keep them entertained for unbelievably long periods of time. The directions are simple: One person spies something and recites the line, ending in a clue. Everyone else takes turns trying to guess the mystery item. “Road Trip Bingo” is a fun road trip game that requires a little planning ahead of time, but can be a terrific scavenger hunt. All you need are clipboards, bingo cards, and a bag of pennies. The bingo cards will list various things that may be seen on the road trip. As the gamers see the things listed on their bingo cards, they cover each item with a penny un ... read more

Sometimes it’s tough to leave your furry friends at home while you head out for a road trip. After all, our pets are part of our family and we enjoy their company when we travel. Here are some ideas for safe and comfortable travel with your pets. Dogs: Depending on your dog, it may be best to travel with a crate, especially if they like to run around the car. Crating will keep your dog safe. In addition, the driver will not have as many distractions when a dog is crated. Keep a small bowl of water inside the crate so your dog can stay hydrated. Some dogs are calmer and will be happy to lie down in the back seat. To keep your car cleaner, place a dog blanket in the back seat area to reduce the amount of dirt and dog hair getting into your seats. If you place a small bowl of water on the blanket, it will catch any spilled water and keep your seats dry. Cats: Most cats prefer to be crated while in the car. Like dogs, crating keeps your cat safe and reduces the number of distractions for t ... read more

There are many YouTube videos showing beginners how to drive a manual transmission. On the other end, you can take driving courses at the Skip Barber Driving School at Laguna Seca Raceway to drive a manual transmission like a pro. To help you drive a manual transmission in a way that is easy on your vehicle and gets you the best gas mileage, here are some tips for driving a stick. 1. If you are new to standard transmissions and need to learn how to drive the car, here is a helpful video: <iframe allowfullscreen></iframe> 2. Now that you know how to drive your standard transmission vehicle, begin driving as you normally would in an automatic. Avoid tailgating the vehicle in front of you so you have plenty of time to stop. 3. Shift a few hundred RPMs earlier than normal to save gas. By shifting early, you don't wind the engine up so much. 4. When you are at cruising speed, somewhere around 55 miles per hour, shift to the highest gear to achieve a higher to ... read more

For those of us who live year round on the Monterey Peninsula, snow and ice are not driving hazards we have to deal with on a regular basis. Especially this January, where it has been amazingly warm and sunny. However, for those of us who love to visit ski country, driving safely on snow and ice helps us get back safely to our coastal climate. Here are some helpful tips on how to drive safely through ice and snow: 1. Make sure your car has been serviced and is operating well before your ski trip. Breaking down on the side of a snow covered road is NOT fun. 2. Buy snow tires or add chains to your existing tires. 3. Practice driving on snow and ice before your road trip. If you are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with driving on icy roads, practice in a parking lot before you tackle the highways and byways. 4. Weigh your car down with sandbags directly over the rear axle if you have a rear wheel drive vehicle. These sandbags will serve as ballast and help prevent spinouts. 5. Double the ... read more

Some people forget to change their tires. Others are better about getting regular tire service. Here are the top five reasons to change your tires: Your tread is less than 1/16 inch or 1.6 millimeters thick. Your tires should always have more than a depth of 1/16 inch tread, ideally at a thickness of 1 inch of tread depth. If your tread wear indicator bars are exposed, your tires need to be replaced. Tread wear indicators are parallel bars that run perpendicular to the direction of the tread. Replace your tires if they have cracked and weathered side walls. Cracked and weathered side walls are bad news, showing that the strength of the tire is breaking down. Bulges and blisters on the tires are really bad news, for they indicate a potential blow out. Blow outs are a cause of some major accidents, so never let your tires get to the point of having bulges and blisters. If your tires have too much vibration, it is yet another sign that something isn’t quite right with your tires. At ... read more

Robert’s Auto Repair has developed a solid reputation along the Monterey Peninsula for premier workmanship and service. We go the extra mile in everything we do to make certain our clients receive 100% satisfaction. To help illustrate why we do what we do and how we do it, we thought it would be educational to show a behind the scenes viewpoint of how we do our workflow process on a simple task such as brake service and repair. The brakes on your vehicle are its most important safety feature, and brakes are not something that can be neglected, at all! Due to the braking system’s constant use, brakes may require maintenance after several thousand miles or when your vehicle appears to take longer than it should to come to a complete stop. To better understand our workflow process, here is a typical checklist we run through to provide the best brake system maintenance and brake repair: First, we test to see if the brakes work okay. Next, we determine how the brake system is doing based on ... 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 2014. 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 ... read more

The family of Robert’s Auto Repair wishes you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We will be closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day, but will otherwise be open to serve you. We want to thank all of you, from the bottom of our hearts, for your patronage of our auto body, mechanical, detail, and tire service facility. May you all be safe and healthy over the holidays. We look forward to serving you the next time your vehicle needs any type of auto repair. With love and respect, The Robert’s Auto Repair Team

Okay, we have to confess that we crack a big smile every time we see vehicles around Monterey all decked out for the holidays. Here are some of our favorite photos: Also seen on Thanksgiving Day, Happy Hanukkah, everyone! “Cardolph” the red-nosed 4-door SUV all decked out in lights Not everyone goes to the extreme of decorating their vehicles, but we wanted to celebrate those that do. Happy Holidays, everyone

5 Winter Car Care Tips: 2023 Update As winter approaches, preparing your vehicle for the colder temperatures and potential travel challenges is crucial. While we're fortunate to enjoy milder winters in California, it's essential to implement winter car care tips that can make a significant difference in ensuring your vehicle runs safely and smoothly. In this blog post, we'll explore five essential tips for winter car maintenance, including a special section for those traveling out of state during the holiday season. 1. Check Your Fluids: Ensure that all vital fluids in your vehicle are at the appropriate levels. This includes engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. Cold temperatures can affect fluid viscosity, so it's essential to use the right types of fluids for winter conditions. 2. Inspect Your Tires: Good traction is crucial, even in California's milder winters. Check your tire pressure regularly, as it tends to drop in colder weather. Co ... read more

You got into an accident with your vehicle? Ouch! Automobile accidents are an unpleasant experience for everyone, but we do our best to set things right with your car, truck, or SUV again with our auto body repair service. If your vehicle needs auto body repair work, here is how Robert’s Auto Repair can help your car look like new again: 1. Robert’s Auto Repair is a preferred vendor or approved vendor with multiple insurance companies, so you can feel confident that we are well respected for our auto body repair services. 2. Our friendly and helpful staff will provide you with all the information you need for your insurance company to get your vehicle repaired. 3. If you need a rental car, we have an Enterprise representative on-site for your convenience. 4. Whether your auto body repair is minor or major, we do all of the auto body repair in-house and can restore your vehicle to factory specifications. No problem! 5. We guarantee all our auto body repair work. 6. We have the tec ... read more

Though we love the holiday season, it a time to heighten your awareness of safety. Here are a few tips we found, courtesy of the LAPD, about keeping yourself and your vehicle safe during the holiday shopping season: Driving Avoid driving alone or at night. Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device. If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area. Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows. Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked. Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside. Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight. Be sure to loca ... read more

We’ve all heard it multiple times as drivers. “Make sure you change your oil on a regular basis.” But why are oil changes so important? Here are a few reasons: Removing old, dirty oil and replacing it with clean oil at regular intervals extends the life of your vehicle. Adding fresh oil to your vehicle helps it operate at peak performance. Lubricating all those working parts helps improve their function, and thus, your gas mileage. Oil changes maximize the life of your vehicle. Imagine, if you will, that you decided you were going to give up drinking water for a year. If you do, your body’s cells will eventually get all gunked up with toxins and waste your body cannot flush. Oil changes to your engine are similar to your body drinking water, for the oil allows everything to flow like it should, getting rid of dirt and grime that builds up over time. Fresh oil allows your vehicle to go with the flow! At Robert’s Auto Repair, we highly recommend regular oil changes, and we do our b ... read more

If you love football like we do, you’re probably glued to the television screen, cheering on your favorite team. Over the years, we discovered that football has a lot to do with auto maintenance. Here are a few things football taught us: You cannot accomplish everything yourself. -- It takes a team to handle your auto maintenance. That is why we have all the team members at our facility to handle complete auto maintenance, including the detailing team, tire team, mechanical auto repair team, auto body repair team, painting team, customer service team, insurance estimator team, and our office management team. Overcome losses and figure out what comes next. -- This speaks particularly to our auto body repair and insurance estimator teams. When our clients come to us for auto body repair, they usually range from moderately inconvenienced to devastated from the loss of their vehicle. It is our job to assess the losses, communicate clearly with the insurance companies, and put our client’s ... read more

Welcome, November! Now that you’re here, we are officially in a Halloween candied, sugar-overloaded stupor and heading straight into the throes of the holiday season. Tis the season to be on the roads more often than usual, so here are some helpful reminders to prepare the family vehicle for holiday travel: Oil Changes: If you look at your vehicle’s odometer, do you notice anything? If it has been over 3000 miles since your last oil change with conventional oil, perhaps it’s time for a new oil change. If you have a vehicle that uses synthetic oil, you may need to come in for an oil change if it’s been over 6000 miles. If you’re not sure, check with Robert’s Auto Repair and we’ll give you a status on your vehicle’s recommended oil change time frame. Minor and Major Service: Keep looking at your vehicle’s odometer and see if you notice if it has reached 15K, 30K, 45K, 60K, 75K, 90K, 105K, or 120K miles. If it has passed the odd numbers, like 15K, 45K ... read more

Las fechas de fiesta y celebración se están acercando muy rápido! Como lo hacemos de costumbre, en estas fechas salimos a buscar el mejor disfraz para llevar a las fiestas de Halloween y buscamos las mejores flores y decoraciones para los altares de nuestros familiares que han fallecido para el día de muertos. Aquí en Robert’s Auto Repair, ustedes son parte de nuestra familia y queremos que pasen un divertido y seguro Halloween y un tranquilo Día de Muertos. Por eso les pedimos que tomen medidas de precaución cuando salgan a las fiestas para evitar que le pase cualquier tipo de accidente a usted y/o a sus seres queridos. Algunas medidas de seguridad que les recomendamos en estas festividades son: 1. No maneje en estado de ebriedad El manejar ebrio es una de las causas de accidentes más comunes que ocurren durante fechas de fiesta como lo son Halloween. 2. No maneje con objetos que limiten su vista en el volante Muchas veces escogemos disfraces que incluyen mascaras, botargas, y objetos ... read more

Slick roads are only fun on a go-kart track...not on the freeway, right? When the first rains of the season hit the Monterey Peninsula and Salinas, it is important to be very careful while driving. When the first rains of the season come along, the roads are super slick due to the oils deposited from the traffic. Naturally, when water drops hit the well-oiled roadways, there is a higher tendency for cars and trucks to slip and slide. At best case scenario, your vehicle hits a slick spot and hydroplanes for a second. In the worst cases, your vehicle loses traction altogether, sending your vehicle into a tailspin or fatal crash. To prevent these hazards, here are a few driving safety tips during the first rains of the season: Exercise extreme caution. Allow for more travel time. Do not use cruise control. Brake earlier, and don’t use too much force. Avoid pooling water when possible. Turn on your headlights and wipers at first sign of rain. Be extra careful around pedestri ... read more

Una de las cosas más comunes a las que las personas no le prestan la debida atención e importancia es al servicio y reparación de los frenos de sus autos. El sistema de frenos es el sistema pasivo más importante de un vehículo no solo porque nos ayuda a disminuir la velocidad a la que conducimos y a parar cuando es necesario, pero también porque nos ayuda a prevenir accidentes en una situación de emergencia. Generalmente el sistema de frenos es bastante confiable siempre y cuando se le de el servicio y mantenimiento debido. Por lo general es recomendable que le den un diagnostico o un servicio a los frenos de su auto cuando se le da un servicio general a un automóvil. De esta manera se evita el desgaste del sistema de frenos, se previenen las fallas, y mas importante aun, se puede prevenir un accidente. Una de las señales de que los frenos de un auto necesita atención, servicio o mantenimiento son vibración cuando se pisa el freno, si se oye algún chillido al momento de frenar, si el a ... read more

Ah, our Indian Summer is here. Have you noticed how gorgeous our weather is around the Monterey Peninsula and Salinas region? Simply beautiful. In this brief period of warm, sunny weather, there are several things you can do to enjoy your vehicle to the max during Indian Summer. Here are a few ideas to consider: Make your vehicle shine with a full detail service. -- Robert’s Auto Repair has a full menu of detailing services that will make your ride look shiny and clean again. Not only are we capable of fully detailing the interior, exterior, and engine compartment of your vehicle, we can also remove fine scratches from your paint. Click here for more information on our detailing services. Get a free safety inspection. -- If you’re concerned about the safety of your vehicle, bring it into Robert’s Auto Repair for a free safety inspection. In our FREE Vehicle Safety Inspection, we will provide you a Multi-Point Inspection Report Card as recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. In ord ... read more