Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

Auto body repair has come a long way since its inception. From rudimentary techniques to sophisticated, high-tech solutions, the industry has continuously evolved to meet the demands of modern vehicles and discerning customers. At the forefront of this evolution is Robert’s Collision & Repair, a business that not only keeps pace with technological advancements but also leads the way in eco-friendly practices. Today, we explore how Robert’s Collision & Repair sets the standard in the auto body repair industry. The Cutting-Edge Facility Robert’s Collision & Repair boasts a state-of-the-art, 26,000 square foot facility equipped with the latest in repair technology. Our shop’s commitment to precision and efficiency is evident in its use of computerized estimating systems with digital photo imaging. This technology allows for accurate and transparent estimates, ensuring customers understand  Commitment to Quality and Zero Comebacks At Robert&rsqu ... read more

Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash 3 Essential Steps to Prepare Your Vehicle for Fall Weather Your safety means the world to us. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures start to dip, it's time to get your vehicle ready for the challenges of fall weather. At CARSTAR Robert's Collision, we understand the importance of ensuring your car is well-prepared for the changing seasons, and we're here to help you make the transition smoothly.    While we don't experience extreme winter conditions in sunny California, the shifting weather can still affect your vehicle's performance later this year. Whether you plan to hit the road for holiday travel or stay closer to home, taking the time to prepare your car for fall can save you from unexpected issues down the road. So, let's dive into three crucial steps to prepare your vehicle for the upcoming fall seaso ... read more

Photo By Wes Hicks on Unsplash How To Prepare Your Vehicle For Rainy Conditions Rainy weather can be challenging for drivers, and we want to help you stay safe on the road while protecting your vehicle from potential damage. As an established auto shop, it is our priority at CARSTAR Robert's Collision to help you understand how to maintain your vehicles for optimal performance and safety.  That's why today, we'll dive into the essential topic of preparing your vehicle for rainy conditions. We’ll discuss the impact of rain on vehicles, tips for preparing your vehicle for rain, and give you insider tips for maintaining the safety of your vehicle! The Impact of Rain on Vehicles Before we delve into the preparation tips, it's crucial to understand how rainy conditions can affect your vehicle.  Rain can creat ... read more

How Do My Brakes Work & How Can They Help Me Avoid A Collision? Brakes are essential to any vehicle, ensuring your safety on the road. They allow you to slow down or bring your vehicle to a complete stop whenever necessary. Understanding how your brakes work and their role in collision avoidance is vital for every driver. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of the brake system and how it contributes to your safety on the road.   Introduction When you press the brake pedal, a series of complex mechanisms come into play, converting your foot's force into stopping power. The brake system works by transforming kinetic energy into heat energy, effectively reducing the speed of your vehicle. Let's delve deeper into the brake system and its various components.   Understanding the Brake System Brake Components The brake system comprises several key components, including brake pads, rotors or drums, calipers, brake lines, and the master cylinder. Each ... read more

Vehicle Maintenance: Why a Well-Maintained Vehicle is a Safer Vehicle Keeping your vehicle well-maintained is crucial not only for its longevity but also for your safety on the road. Regular maintenance ensures that your vehicle functions properly enhances its safety features, and prevents unexpected breakdowns. In this article, we will explore the importance of vehicle maintenance and the key tasks involved in keeping your vehicle in optimal condition.   Importance of Vehicle Maintenance Ensuring Proper Functionality Regular maintenance allows for early detection and resolution of potential issues. This ensures that all components of your vehicle, including the engine, brakes, suspension, and steering, are in proper working order. Proper functionality minimizes the risk of accidents and provides a smoother driving experience. Enhancing Safety Features Well-maintained vehicles have various safety features that require proper maintenance to function effectively. This include ... read more

  How Servicing Your Vehicle Power System Will Help You Avoid Trouble Your vehicle's power system is a critical component that ensures the proper functioning of electrical systems, ignition, and overall performance. Regular servicing and maintenance of the power system can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, extend the life of your vehicle, and save you from costly repairs.   In this article, we will explore the importance of servicing your vehicle's power system and the steps you can take to ensure trouble-free driving. Understanding the Vehicle Power System The vehicle power system comprises various components that provide electrical power and ensure smooth operation. These components include the battery, alternator, starter, belts, pulleys, fuses, ignition, and fuel. A well-functioning power system is essential for powering electrical components, starting the engine, and maintaining proper ignition. Regular Maintenance and Inspection Regular maintenance a ... read more

When Do I Replace My Tires & Where Do I Go To Replace Them? As a car owner, knowing when to replace your tires is important for ensuring the safety of yourself and others on the road. In this article, we'll go through the signs that indicate you need new tires and where to go to replace them. Signs you need new tires Your tires are the only part of your car that comes in contact with the road, so it's important to make sure they're in good condition. Here are some signs that indicate you need new tires: Tread wear indicator bars Most modern tires have tread wear indicator bars that are designed to help you determine when the tire has worn down to the point where it needs to be replaced. These bars are located in the grooves between the treads and become visible when the tire is worn down to 2/32 of an inch. Low tire tread depth If the tread depth of your tires is below 4/32 of an inch, it's time to replace them. You can check the tread depth using a tread dep ... read more

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio   We proudly serve Coast Auto Insurance customers We're excited to serve Coast Auto Insurance customers at our collision repair shop. Our team is dedicated to providing quality collision repair backed by service you can trust, and partners like Coast Auto insurance are integral in that process!   Why a partnership brings you value At CARSTAR Robert's Collision, we work with all major insurance companies to help you through the process of getting your vehicle repaired after an accident. We understand that dealing with insurance can be stressful, so we do everything we can to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.   Coast Auto Insurance is one of the many insurance companies we work with to bring you the best possible collision repair experience. We are proud to partner with Coast Auto Insurance and provide our customers with the high-quality repairs they deserve. If you have any questions about how we work with y ... read more

Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash Tire tread is often an overlooked aspect of vehicle maintenance, yet it plays a crucial role in ensuring safety on the road. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of tire tread, what it is, how it can get damaged, the symptoms of worn tread, and a simple test you can perform at home to check your tire tread depth. What is Tire Tread? Tire tread refers to the pattern of grooves and channels on the surface of a tire that makes contact with the road. This design serves several purposes, including providing traction, dispersing water to prevent hydroplaning, and enhancing overall stability and handling. Ways Tire Tread Can Get Damaged: Wear and Tear: Over time, the friction between the tire ... read more

    Photo by Holly Mandarich on Unsplash  For this week's blog, we want to highlight some of the more common causes of auto collisions so that you can avoid being in an accident yourself. While commuting to work or going about your day, you may have witnessed an accident on the road and wondered why it happened. At CARSTAR Robert's Collision in Monterey, we care about your safety and want to point out some things to avoid while on the road.  Being able to identify hazards on the road or having the ability to react to avoid accidents requires attention and focus. It is important to remember that your life, your passenger's life, and the lives of other drivers around you can be affected ... read more

Photo by Deleece Cook on Unsplash    Is your vehicle ready for back-to-school season? Going back to school in person after being away for a long time can be exciting! And because of this it is important to have your vehicle ready and make sure everything is working perfectly, especially the brakes.    Having your car ready for back to school can save you lots of time and money. Your kids or probably yourself are going back to school, which means the hours you spend in the car have just significantly increased! You will be driving from home to school, to work, and back and forth. Below are some of the steps you should consider to have your vehicle and brakes ready for back to school:   Keep an eye on your tires: Your vehicle tires are like your feet; they need to be in go ... read more

Photo by Jan Baborák on Unsplash    Welcome to our August blog! For this blog, we will be talking about relieving your first year of driving and some of the things you can do to calm your nerves and help you drive, like if you have been doing so for years.    The fear of driving is incredibly common among first-time drivers and can be mild or severe. It takes its time, probably up to three months or even more. Even if you start driving on the regular roads, it might take months before becoming really good, but it's all about practice. We all had the experience of having one family member or friend yelling at us while trying to teach us how to drive, but in the end, we all learned how to do it successfully.    Our friends at CARSTAR Robert's want you ... read more

California has been struck by fire after fire in the last few years, and 2020 is up there with the worst fire season our state has ever seen. Along with smoky orange and grey skies and poor to dangerous air quality, California residents have had days and days of ash falling from the sky. With no end to the fires in sight, it’s important to make sure that you keep your car from accumulating long-term damage as a result of the fire season. Keep reading to find out how to keep the air pollution from ruining your car’s paint job, and how to keep the air in your car as clean as possible.  After driving, you’ll likely arrive home with some ash residue. This can be removed quickly and easily by gently wiping down your vehicle with a long-handled car duster to remove any soot and ash that have accumulated. Make sure to pay particular attention to your headlights and taillights to ensure you have maximum visibility. If you have access to a garage where you can park your ... read more

  It may be too late for full-on maintenance before heading home for the holidays, but there’s a few things you can do yourself to help get you where you are going safely and without a breakdown. While most of us don’t have to worry about snow, we want our cars as roadworthy as possible. Check your wipers and if they are deteriorating or simply not doing their job, replace them Check all of your fluids to make sure they are at proper levels Check all hoses and belts to make sure they aren’t loose or deteriorating If you are heading to a snowy areas, have good chains at the ready Check your tires for proper inflation as well as for tread depth and sidewall damage  Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times just in case you get stuck in traffic Have an emergency kit that is updated Your emergency kit should include: current medications, snacks, water, gloves, warm blankets, jumper cables, shovel, flashlight with extra batteries, and a well-stock ... read more

Before you hit the road and head out for Thanksgiving travel, make sure to take the time to prepare for your trip. One of the most important things to do that is often overlooked is some simple preventive maintenance. You want to be prepared for the road ahead and that can help decrease the likelihood of getting stranded or worse. Here’s a short list of some of the things you can do to be prepared:  Replace worn out wiper blades Check your tire pressure regularly Also check tread depth, wear, and for anything that’s penetrated a tire Keep your gas tank at least half full  Check to make sure your rear window defroster is working Have your vehicle serviced before long drives Have an updated safety/emergency kit Keep your eye on the weather. Remember that even here on the coast, the weather can surprise us. Even more so if you’re heading inland and through any mountain passes. This will help you stay prepared and ready for the unexpected. If you are head ... read more

  Fuel efficiency can easily start with your tires. When we head into the colder months, even though we live in a temperate climate, it still affects your tires and your fuel efficiency. In general, the colder weather can greatly affect your vehicle’s fuel economy. It takes longer for your​ engine to warm up and reach its best fuel consumption temperature.  When the weather changes, make sure you regularly check the air pressure in your tires because they fluctuate with the weather. When the air pressure is just right, you’ll get the most out of your tires and your fuel efficiency will improve.  When you are looking for more ways to improve fuel efficiency, try these suggestions: Whenever possible, park in the warmest place. If you have an option to park in a garage, do so. Any shelter will help with warmth.  Even on cold days, don’t warm up your car too much. The longer you idle, the less fuel-efficient your car. Combine your trips. Planning a ... read more

Some people just can’t help themselves when it comes to decorating their cars for Halloween. And even if we aren’t one of those people, most of us certainly enjoy seeing what others have done. It’s fun to see a car that’s all dressed up and ready for some trick-or-treating. Take a look at what we’ve spotted that are easy ways to dress up your car for this Halloween… or maybe for year-around fun! Just click on the photo and it will take you to the Amazon page so you can start dressing up YOUR car!     ... read more

  When you need quality auto repair services, whether it’s for the outside body or what lays under the hood, you’ll want to turn to a reputable shop you can trust. It can be scary to leave your vehicle with just any shop and that’s why CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair has worked so hard to earn a solid reputation for not only quality workmanship, but for also delivering the very best in customer service experiences. We are here for you and it shows in all that we do.  The entire team at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair follows up on our mission to ease your worries and help to decrease the stress around having your vehicle worked on to bring it back to its original splendor or simply help you get the most out of it in a way that you remain safe. We work on gaining and keeping your trust from the moment you drive onto our property and well beyond the moment you pull away. It’s a lifelong endeavor and one we take seriously. Th ... read more

When is it time to replace your tires? You’ll want to partner with your auto repair experts to get the most out of your tires. If you properly care for your tires, not only will you get better gas mileage, but you’ll be able to get many more months and miles out of them before having to invest in a new set. Take a look at the photo below to see signs of a problem before it gets any worse.    Here are some tips on what to look for and how to get the most out of them: Get in the habit of looking for wear and tear on your tires. The more you know your tires, the easier it will be to identify a problem. Regularly check the air pressure in your tires and when you do that, take that time to give the rest of your tire a once over.  Inspect the tire tread depth and wear. Use a penny to help you assess the depth. If you can’t see Lincoln’s head because it’s well nestled into a deep tread, you’re good to go. If it’s completely exposed ... read more

  A curb can look innocuous, but even the small ones have the potential to cause you grief. If you drive, then it’s a matter of when not if when it comes to hitting a curb. Whether it’s bad weather, distracted driving, or another driver that causes you to swerve right into or over a curb, it can still cause significant unseen damage. The speed you were going, the angle at which you hit, and the height of the curb are all factors that will affect the extent of the damage to your vehicle. There’s no way to tell just by looking, and that is why you need to take into a professional mechanic to have it properly inspected. From tire and wheel damage to a completely wrecked suspension and other potential damage in between, once you’ve hit the curb, it’s important that you get your vehicle back on track.  Tire damage: This might be the most notable. It wouldn’t be unusual for you to experience an immediate flat tire. Even if it&rs ... read more

Life might be a highway, but when you’re speeding along, you’re probably not getting the most out of your fuel consumption. Do you want to know some great ways to increase fuel efficiency? Everyone wants to save money, but oftentimes we throw it away because we are careless or just don’t know how best to do it. When it comes to fuel efficiency, here are some solid suggestions that has the power to improve yours 5-25%: 1.       Don’t road rage. When you are flying past the guy that was just ahead of you or your slamming on your breaks, not only is that bad for your blood pressure, it’s also bad for your gas mileage. Set your cruise control so it keeps you even-steven. 2.       We know this won’t work on the freeways, but keep in mind you get the best gas mileage when you’re going around 50 miles an hour. This is currently the best speed for the best gas mileage. We know that it won’t always matter ... read more

  The Valentine season is upon us and it is not reserved for humans alone. Sometimes we love our cars more than most humans we know and they give us love that simply cannot be offered from a guy or a gal. Who knows what I’m talking about? The feel of the steering wheel under our grip, the way we mold into the seats as she hugs a tight curve, the power we experience as we navigate our way through 17 Mile Drive… these are the gifts our car gives us every day. How can we reciprocate, you ask?   Take your car out for a drive. Hit 17 Mile Drive and let ‘er rip down our beautiful coastline. There’s no better feeling for you and your car than hitting the open road. We live in such a beautiful part of the world and there are so many wonderful places to explore right here in our own backyard. So, fill up your gas tank, check your fluids and your tire’s air pressure and hit the road for a freedom-filled afternoon or pedal-to-the-metal fun! A ... read more

Okay...if you’re going to drive a BMW or even TALK about them, then you’d better get this straight right away, or you’re just going to look silly. If you are talking about a BMW motorcycle, then yes, go ahead and refer to them as Beemers or Beamers. HOWEVER, if you are talking about your BMW automobile, please for the love of the brand, call it a BIMMER. Yes, that’s right. B. I. M. M. E. R. Bimmer it is! Whew. Now that we have that out of the way let’s dive into a brief history of the Bimmer. You want to seem in-the-know at your next cocktail party, don’t you? For instance, did you know that the origin of BMW is traced back to three different German companies: Rapp Motorenwerke, Bayerische Flugzeugwerke, and Automobilwerk Eisenach. The first engine they produced was the Illa aircraft engine known for its good fuel economy and high-altitude performance. The BMW came from Bayerische Motoren Werke when it was renamed such in 1917. Even though the first ... read more

For most of us, our pets aren’t just our pets; they are a beloved part of our family that we want to protect just as much as any other family member. We also want them happy and healthy. We love having them with us as we head out on our many life adventures and there is much we can do to keep our loyal travel buddies’ tails-a-wagging’. Unless of course you’re traveling with cats, and then the tail wag isn’t so good. Just like we need our stuff, so do they. And since they can’t pack for themselves… well, here’s a basic list of what they might need/want with them: favorite toy/toys; their regular food so not to upset their delicate intestinal balance; food and water dishes; bedding; litter box and litter; any meds they’re taking; collar and tags; grooming supplies; and fresh drinking water.  Have them microchipped but also make sure they are wearing a collar with appropriate tags at all times. Make it as easy as possible for a ... read more

  What do you think about when buying a car? Money is usually the number one consideration, but safety falls right in behind. The average American will be in 4 automobile accidents in their lifetime. Knowing that makes a person want to find a car that is not only cost-effective, reliable, but SAFE!  So, what makes a car safe? A lot more goes into answering that question than most people think: Seat belts: adjustable upper belts to adjust for a person’s size; seat belt pretensioners to take the slack out (almost instantly) in a crash; energy management features to let the seat belt adjust during a crash to take the load off certain areas; rear center seat belts for those stuck riding in the middle. Airbags: front and side impact airbags should be used in conjunction with seat belts. Keep kiddos out of the front seat when an airbag can actually cause harm due to the height of a child. Keep 10 inches or more distance between you and the front airbag.  Anti-lock br ... read more

There’s so much that goes into choosing the right mechanic and the right automotive repair shop. Don’t be afraid to get in there and ask questions. This is a big decision that will impact you (your wallet!) and the health and longevity of your vehicle. Protect yourself and your auto as much as possible by digging into some tough questions. And if the shop is uncomfortable answering your questions or doesn’t have the time to talk to you, that should be your answer right there. Here are some suggestions of questions to ask, but don’t be afraid to ask anything! Do you specialize in my make of vehicle? What certifications/training do your mechanics have? How much experience do they have? How much will the diagnostic cost? Do you have a warranty on parts and labor? If so, what are the details? Can you help me prioritize the work that needs to be done? Are there extra fees with any of your services? How do you communicate with me throughout the repair/service ... read more

  What American does not LOVE a Corvette?? Okay… there may be a couple, but they are few and far between. This car represents the American dream, baby. Sleek in design and fast on the road, able to hug the tightest curves and, damn, do you look good in the driver’s seat! Let’s go back to 1953 when Chevrolet drove its first Corvette off the assembly line. $3,490 would have put you in one of the 300 Corvette’s produced that first year. They were all white convertibles with red interior and a black canvas top. This was the first all-fiberglass-bodied American sports car. If, by chance, you happen to have one of these originals hanging out in your garage, it currently carries a low estimated value of $187,000 and a high value of $363,700. Back in 2014, one sold at auction for $660,000! That one was in pristine condition and still had pretty much everything original down to its spare tire and had less than 10,000 miles on its speedometer.  A Corvette rep ... read more

Typically when we think of unsafe driving conditions, we think of winter driving. Yet the statics show that there are far more fatal accidents over the summer months, most likely due to people getting out on the road for vacations and an increase in road work. There’s a lot you can do, however, to minimize your risk of getting in an accident. A little bit of prevention can go a long way!   More teens on the road: Not only does this add to the sheer number of vehicles on the road, but also the number of inexperienced drivers makes for more reasons to proceed with caution. Encourage your teen to follow safe-driving practices such as no cell phones or eating while driving. Motorcycles, bikes, pedestrians: We are sharing the road with an increase in not just teenagers, but other folks wanting to take advantage of the sunshine. Give yourself 4 seconds behind a motorcycle and make sure to keep your sunglasses handy to that the glare won’t keep you from seeing cyclists a ... read more

  By now, just about everyone on Earth knows that Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk chose to launch his red Tesla Roadster into space on February 2, 2018, atop the maiden flight of that company’s Falcon Heavy rocket. It carried a mannequin named “Starman” dressed in a space suit and the car’s dashboard screen displayed the message “Don’t Panic” while David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” played on the car’s sound system. Hmm. Some might find this a bit odd…others think it’s kind of intriguing while others still think it’s a monumental waste of a cool car. Whatever the public opinion, one thing is absolutely true: the stunt generated a huge amount of interest in SpaceX and its new generation of a launch vehicle, a rocket that is now the most powerful rocket now operational. For its first flight, a weighted payload was necessary, and typically, NASA would have used concrete blocks to simulate the weight of car ... read more

  We’ve all heard the stories about someone going into their grandparents’ barn to discover a rare classic car buried under a coating of dust and junk. One would think that by now, all those lucky finds would have been found, but they’re still cropping up. For instance, last year a one-of-a-kind 1969 Ferrari Daytona was found in a garage in Japan. The GTB/4, originally sold to a close friend of Enzo Ferrari himself, is the only remaining aluminum bodied example in existence. The odometer read 22,500 miles and it sold at auction in September 2017 for $2.17. Not bad for a car covered in dust and bird poop.   There are many more examples. Mad Lab posted an interesting YouTube video. Take a look here.   If you are lucky enough to have a barn find of your own, we at Robert’s Collision & Repair can help make it look new again. Call us or ... read more

We didn’t really experience much of a winter this year--there were weeks that felt more like spring in San Diego than winter in Monterey. And because the snowpack in the Sierra was below average, many Bay Area residents forsook the mountains chose to visit us instead. If you needed proof, just drive down and see the lines of cars parked along Highway 1 outside of Point Lobos on any given weekend day.   Now that the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has folded up its tent for another year, we have a short period when tourism typically slows down a tad. And that means we can get out and enjoy our precious little slice of heaven without fighting the crowds that will be arriving in the coming months. And what better way to see the sights around here than from behind the wheel of your favorite car? Here are some suggested road trips.   Carmel Valley The route starting from Highway 1 and Carmel Valley is sublime. The valley enjoys some of the best weather in the area, and the ... read more

  Before there was Car Week, there was the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. For many years the golf tournament founded by crooner Bing Crosby was one of the biggest visitor draws of the year. The Monterey Peninsula’s typically sleepy winter streets burst into life as golf enthusiasts and celebrity watchers came to town. And that was the idea.   Bing had started his tournament in Rancho Santa Fe in 1937. It was a relaxed affair, a way for the singer to hang out with his celebrity buddies and pro golfers while getting in a few rounds (of golf and cocktails). A highlight of the event was the clambake--hence the tournament’s nickname. The shindig was suspended for the duration of World War II. After hostilities ended, Ted Durein, a Monterey Peninsula Herald sports writer teamed up with some community leaders to pitch the idea to Der Bingle of bringing the tournament north to Pebble Beach. In the late 1940s, Monterey’s sardine industry was waning, and tourism was ... read more

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

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

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

For us, it’s become a tradition to share a few New Year’s Resolutions with you. Sometimes resolutions are tough to stick to, but these 5 simple car care routines are quick and easy to maintain. Little reminders to do the simple things to keep your car running until next year! 1) Get your car washed regularly This is one of those little things that fall to the side after a while. Keeping your car washed and clean can help maintain visibility and extend the life of your paint coat! 2) Check the oil Making sure you always have enough motor oil in the engine is a simple thing to check, and cheap to maintain. And it’s great for your engine! 3) Check your tires Just a couple extra minutes in the morning, make sure your tires aren’t going flat on you. You can even use the penny trick! 4) Take it in for maintenance Yes, we know. You hear this all the time. Even still, we can’t stress enough how important regular maintenance like oil changes are to the life ... read more

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

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

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

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

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

10% Off Labor for Tire Rotation Service. Offer valid through August 31, 2016. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   Did you know that tire rotation can extend the life of your tires up to 20 percent? That means if you have tires that are rated for 50,000 miles, you may be able to squeeze an extra 10,000 miles out of them if you rotate those tires at the factory’s recommended rate.   To extend the life of your tires, take advantage of our monthly special in August:  10% Off Labor for Tire Rotation Service.   Our tire rotation service is not only good for your tires, but it’s good for your vehicle, too. Yes, a tire rotation allows us to inspect the health of your tires, but it also alerts us to other issues that may be going on with your vehicle. For example, the wear on your front tires may indicate under inflated tires, or worn out struts. Seeing what is going on with your tire wear means that we could pinpoint potential ... read more

10% Off Coolant Flush.  Offer valid through July 31, 2016. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   If you’re planning to drive to warmer climates this summer, prepare your vehicle for the sizzling heat with our July special:  10% Off Coolant Flush.   Summertime temperatures in the Central Valley can literally bake cookies in a vehicle that’s parked out in the sun. Imagine what those soaring temperatures do to your engine if you don’t have fresh coolant flowing through your radiator.   When you leave coolant in your pipes too long, it becomes acidic, and it eats away at your engine’s innards. Like used engine oil, coolant breaks down and needs to be replaced for maximum lubrication and cooling performance. New coolant helps keep the engine operating at its most efficient temperature regardless of operating conditions and outside temperatures.   Don’t wait until your coolant fails you on a blis ... read more

If you have come to the Monterey Peninsula to celebrate Independence Day Weekend, welcome! To celebrate the 4th of July, here are some local tips on how to enjoy our nation’s independence while you’re visiting:   There are no firework shows scheduled, and fireworks are not allowed. Call us crazy, but the California drought has put people on the edge when it comes to errant sparks from fireworks setting buildings on fire. If you were planning for a fireworks show, sorry to disappoint you, but there will not be any in the foreseeable future in Monterey. If you must see a fireworks show, head over to Salinas, or to the Bay Area.   Spend the day on our beaches. Del Monte Beach is the most popular beach over July 4th weekend. You’ll see many families and groups of friends parked on the beach with tents, beach chairs, sand castle building tools, beach balls, etc. We want you to have fun, but we ask you to please use sunscreen, pack your trash, and leave the be ... read more

Summer is here, so it is time we start thinking about ways to stay cool and comfortable in our car. Fortunately, Robert’s Collision and Repair has you covered. We have compiled a helpful list of how to stay cool as a cucumber in the summer heat:   Park in the shade: Not only will you car thank you, but you will also feel much cooler. Use a sunshade: These windshield covers keep the harmful UV rays at bay. Cover up the leather: Ouch! Sitting on hot leather is painful, to say the least. To counteract this, cover up your car’s  leather with towels. Keep an eye on the seat belts: The metal on the seat belts can get very hot. It is important to keep an eye on this before put them on you or your family. Stay Dehydrated: Bring large bottles of water and ice to keep you and your family cool and hydrated during the summer heat. We love to bring wine, food, or any other perishable ... read more

California is covered in hilly terrain, which is absolutely perfect for off-road fun. If you are looking to off-road your way into summer, we have compiled a list of the best places on the California coast:   King’s Canyon: This canyon boasts tons of off-road trails. In fact, a couple of them are over twenty miles long. Most of these trails require only two-wheel drive. However, it is an excellent site to practice your four-wheel driving skills as well. Johnson Valley: If you are an avid off-roader, then, more than likely, you know about Johnson Valley. This beautiful place has something for everybody, from ATV to motorcycles. There is literally 190,000 acres for you and your family to explore. Big Sur: Big Sur is known for its breath-taking views. Most people don’t know about its fabulous back roads. The road is narrow with spellbinding twists and turns, along with boasting beautiful Sequoia to gaze upon. Big Sur is the absolute go-to place for off-roaders. Hu ... read more

Automobiles are constantly improving. Safety features are continually being upgraded. Acceleration is becoming quicker. There are few changes and trends on the horizon that will completely change the way you drive. Here are the five top automobile trends:   Personalization: Because of complex algorithms and software, cars are becoming much more personalized. Basically, cars will adapt and understand their driver’s preference and habits. This will make driving much safer and easier than ever before. ​ Algorithms for everything: From car insurance to car sales, everything will have an algorithm. For example, your specific driving abilities and the area you live in will be used to analyze the cost of your insurance premium. Basically, everything will become a lot more personalized to you and your vehicle. Ethernet in your car: Soon, you will be able to watch movies and television in your cars, thanks to the emergence of th ... read more

A lot of auto repair customers question the importance of wheel alignment. Is it really necessary?  Yes, it is. Here are three reasons why:   Proper wheel alignment helps keep your vehicle’s suspension system in top working order. Wheel alignment affects fuel efficiency, tire wear, tire performance, vehicle handling and maneuverability. Wheel alignment is a big factor in a vehicle's steering response.     If you don’t believe us, we found a helpful, 4 minute video that clearly shows why wheel alignment is important.   The Importance of Proper Wheel Alignment   At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we use factory-recommended wheel alignment systems to make certain the wheel alignment is on par with factory standards. Why have we invested in such high-tech equipment? With all the auto body repair and mechanical repair work we do here, we (and your insurance company) want each vehicle restored to factory-specified conditions. Thes ... read more

Whether you are single, married, or if “it’s complicated”, we have a Valentine’s Day gift idea your love won’t forget.   Some claim that “they way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”, and that “diamonds are a girl’s best friend”. While some may agree, we feel that giving a Valentine’s Day makeover to your lover’s automobile is a gift that will get a lot of mileage.   What do we mean by a Valentine’s Day makeover? We are suggesting a day at the car spa, also known as Robert’s Collision & Repair. Depending on what your love’s vehicle requires, here are some services we provide:   Minor or major service, to make sure your love’s vehicle is operating at peak performance. Auto body work and paint correction to remove dents, scratches, dings, and scrapes. Wheel alignment and tire rotation, or a new set of tires to keep them safe on the road. Brake repair, so ... read more

We’ve been saying it all year, but El Nino is here and we all need to be prepared. Is your car equally ready for the havoc El Nino and the winter storms will bring? Here are some ideas about how to prepare your vehicles for winter.   Get your vehicle serviced regularly. Every 15,000 miles, your vehicle requires either minor or major service (odd numbers tend to be for minor service, while even numbers tend to be for major service). If your vehicle requires service, we will follow the steps to make certain your automotive oil is free of debris, your filters are clean, your brakes and tires are in good shape, your systems are operating properly, and your engine is in good shape. Our goal is to meet all the manufacturer service recommendations so your vehicle performs to factory specifications; keeping you safe while you traverse the wet roads and windy conditions. Protect your paint job. If you want to protect your vehicle’s paint fro ... read more