Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

Some people question if regular oil changes are really necessary. Depending on the vehicle, owners can feel that oil changes are pricey and a little inconvenient. Well, in our humble opinion, skimping on your oil changes is “penny wise and pound foolish”.   For those unfamiliar with what goes on in the engine compartment when infrequent oil changes take place, here are a couple of eye-opening videos that will help you better understand the importance of regular oil changes. Though we did not create these videos, we are happy to share this useful information.     Video 1:  Why It Is Important To Change Your Oil We feel this mechanic’s video is right on the money. However, if you are using synthetic oil, you may only need to change it every 6,000 miles.     Video 2:  What Happens When You Don’t Change Your Oil Part 1 This video clearly shows all the work needed to remove the sludge made by the dirty oil ... read more

Robert’s Collision & Repair believes in giving back to our community here on the Monterey Peninsula. Over the years, we have sponsored Little League baseball teams and have been active participants in the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. In recent times, we have been helping to feed Sunday breakfast to the homeless at Del Monte Beach with the guidance of Al Siekert & Friends.     Sunday Breakfast on the Beach is a weekly event spearheaded by Alvin Siekert, of Al’s Catering, who donates his time to feeding healthy food to the homeless every Sunday morning. There are a number of sponsors who support this good cause, and thanks to encouragement from one of our very own staff members, Michelle Mitchell, we are one of the newer sponsors. The sponsors on the Monterey Peninsula that donate to Breakfast on the Beach include:   Tillie Gorts Pixels Graphic Design Grove Market John Troia and Troia Foods, Inc. Loulou's Griddle In the Middle Le ... read more

Throughout February, we have been in a romantic mood about our vehicles. To finish this month’s theme, here are some of our five favorite classic car love songs.   Billy Ocean - Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car   The Clash - Brand New Cadillac   Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway   Janis Joplin - Mercedes Benz   Don McLean - American Pie   At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we love to help you any way we can with your vehicle, and we hope you enjoyed our favorite songs. For high-quality auto body repair, mechanical repair, oil changes, auto paint, auto detailing, and tire service, come see us at 234 Ramona Avenue in Monterey, CA. For your conve ... read more

A lot of us love our cars. For some of us, they are our babies. Our pride and joy.   But over time, our love for our cars may wane, especially if they don’t run like they should, don’t look as great as they used to, and they need a lot of repair. This is when new cars tend to lure us away from our old, beloved vehicles. For those of us who really, really want to keep that love alive with their vehicles, there is a way to rekindle that passion, and Robert’s Collision & Repair can help. Let’s say you really adore love your vehicle and want to make it look shiny and new again. Robert’s Collision & Repair has a few solutions for you, including:   Paint correction and dent repair Auto detailing Mechanical restoration   Paint correction and dent repair: If your vehicle looks like it has been scraped up, been in a few accidents, and has suffered at the hands of everyday wear and tear, paint correction and dent repair is a great s ... 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

There’s something appealing and sexy about cars. For generations, America has had a passion for automobile, and today, we want to examine our cultural love affair with cars.   Sleek Sex Appeal: Open any Car & Driver magazine, and you’ll see beautiful photographs of sleek, sexy, fast cars. The images of any featured automobile play with light bouncing off the curves, or a blurred background evoking speed. Sex sells, and auto manufacturers know how to make vehicles look slick and beautiful.   Power: There’s something hot about raw power. What car aficionado doesn’t love gripping the steering wheel, putting the car in gear, and revving the engine? I remember driving my husband’s Mazda Miata around the Santa Cruz Mountains one day, and I felt like I was driving a rocket. I loved driving that tiny car with the top down, hugging the curves of the winding road, and feeling like I was the coolest chick on wheels!   Assets: When we are k ... read more

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

We are in the midst of the rainy season and that means a lot of people are out on hazardous roads. Unfortunately, accidents happen frequently during this season. If you are involved in a traffic accident, here are some suggestions on what to do:   Before an Accident -- Be sure to carry your driver’s license, current proof of insurance, pen, paper, and a mobile phone with a camera. These items will help make the post-accident process much easier. Also carry a set of cones, warning triangles, or emergency flares in your trunk to help alert traffic. Immediately after an Accident -- 1. Stay calm. Take a deep breath. Think about your safety and those around you. 2. If someone is injured, call 911 immediately. Additionally, call police if there is significant damage to your vehicles. 3. Get off the road as quickly as possible. If you had a minor fender bender, you don't have to leave the cars where they are. If you cannot move your vehicle, alert approaching drivers by ... read more

Winter is here and that means rain (Yay!) and cold temperatures. When the temperatures drop, here are a few things that car owners should be aware of for safety’s sake.   Tire pressure may drop on cold days and your tire pressure sensors may say you have a flat. Chances are high that the air inside your tire is compressed, so stop by any gas station and make sure you refill to the proper amount of air in your tires. Speaking of tires, how is your tread? If your tires are worn or balding, avoid dangerous hydroplaning and bring your vehicle in for a new set of tires. Make sure all your lights are working. In wintertime, most of us spend more time driving to and from work in the dark. Be sure your license plate light, tail lights, head lights, interior lights, and other safety lights are operating properly. Be sure your antifreeze levels are where they should be. Antifreeze prevents pipes from bursting due to expansion when water freezes. Having plenty of antifreeze is a s ... read more

Editorial Note:  We can’t help but publish this love letter from your vehicle each 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 2016.   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 ... read more

2015 has been an exciting year, and we are looking forward to ringing in 2016. The Robert’s Collision & Repair team wishes all of you a safe and happy New Year’s Eve. Here are some important things to remember so you will all arrive alive, safe and sound, back at home in the new year.   Have a plan before you go out. If you plan to drink, be sure you have a designated driver. Also, take plenty of cash with you in case something happens to your designated driver. Download the Uber app on your smartphone. In case your designated driver bails, you can contact Uber to send a driver over to pick you up. Lucky for you, you brought cash with you, just in case. Call a taxi in case the Uber waiting list is too long. Taxi drivers are numerous and are easy to spot. Good thing you have that cash...and some take credit cards if you’re cash poor.  Here are some of the taxi companies serving the Monterey Peninsula: Yellow Cab ... read more

Holiday travel can be stressful. We know. Especially when you have many places to visit and people to see in the short time span of one or two days. Here are some holiday tips that should help save your sanity.   Pack a scarf. It can keep you warm, serve as a pillow, or add some style to your outfit. Scarves are smart to travel with and they don’t take up too much space.   Stock your safety kit. You’ll be glad you have a safety kit in the event of a breakdown or closed roads. Stock your safety kit with the following items:   Ice scraper Tow rope Blankets Flashlights A bag of sand or rock salt First aid kit Change for toll roads Water Snacks Travel on “off” days. If you can plan to leave super early or super late, you’ll face less traffic. Can you take the time to travel late at night or on the actual holiday itself? You might endure less travel stress if you do.   Get your vehicle serviced and repaired. Wouldn’t yo ... 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

Are you a packing expert, or are you a packing mess? If you want to pack a bunch of stuff, plus passengers, plus the family pets, and still have some legroom, here are some tips for packing your car for the holiday road trip.     Keep in mind the size of your vehicle. If it’s small, you will be more limited in what you can take with you. Whatever vehicle size you have, see how many non-essentials you can remove from the vehicle, like in the trunk and back seats, before you load it up for the holiday road trip. Be selective about the number of suitcases you take and how much will go into them. If you can, travel lightly and purchase the toiletries and other disposables when you arrive at your destination. Place heavier items on the bottom so they do not crush the lighter items. This is important, for sharp turns and sudden stops can shift your cargo around, so plan carefully when loading. Keep valuables, like computers, phones, and wrapped gifts out of sight. If y ... read more

Now that we are officially in the Christmas holiday season, it’s time to start decorating! If you’re looking to buy the family Christmas tree, here are seven helpful tips on how to transport it from the lot to your living room.   1. Bring gloves to protect your hands from sharp pine needles and tree sap.   2. Wrap a net around your Christmas tree to protect it from the wind.   3. Place a protective barrier, like a blanket or a tarp, on the roof of your automobile or the bed of your truck to protect the paint.   4. Strap the tree to the roof with the trunk facing toward your engine. Or, place the tree in the truck bed with the trunk facing toward the cabin. This position will make the tree more streamlined throughout the drive.   5. Know how to tie a Christmas tree to the roof of your car. Here’s a helpful video.   6. Resist the urge to place the tree inside your car, v ... read more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We love laboring over the vehicles of our clients. It is both an honor and a privilege to serve our customers with outstanding auto body repair, tire service, mechanical repair, auto detailing, and waterborne paint services. This Labor Day, we are celebrating the near-completion of our renovations to our 26,000 square foot auto repair facility. If you have been a client of ours for a while, you probably have noticed how our look has evolved over time. Sprucing up our shop with new equipment, a new exterior, and a new interior design, has certainly been a labor of love for several years. In honor of Labor Day, we want to celebrate by offering our clients a 10% discount up to $100 for any mechanical repair or service from Tuesday, September 1 through Friday, September 11, if you mention this blog. Call David Robinson of Robert’s Collision & Repair at 831-373-1534 to book your appointment for any of the following mechanical services or repairs: Remember to contact David Robinson a ... read more

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

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

If you want to see the full schedule for Monterey Car Week, click here for the official website. However, if you want tips on how to enjoy Auto Week on a budget, watch this helpful video: If you need auto body, mechanical repair, tire service, detailing service, or auto paint service during Monterey Car Week, we invite you to visit us at Robert’s Collision & Repair, located just off Highway 1 at the Del Monte Blvd. Pacific Grove exit. Our shop address is 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. Call 831-373-1534 to schedule an appointment

Summer is here, and nothing adds to a road trip better than awesome music! These are our five favorite songs about cars. Enjoy! :-) #5 -- “I Can’t Drive 55” by Sammy Hagar#4 -- “Panama” by Van Halen#3 -- “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman#2 -- “The Distance” by Cake#1 -- “Drive My Car” by The Beatles If you need auto body, mechanical repair, tire service, detailing service, or auto paint service on your vehicles, we invite you to visit us at Robert’s Collision & Repair, located just off Highway 1 at the Del Monte Blvd. Pacific Grove exit. Our shop address is 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. Call 831-373-1534 to schedule an appointment

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

Want to know more about how your vehicle works? Here are some helpful videos that will educate you about your car and make you a smarter driver. Enjoy! How Does Your Internal Combustion Engine Work? How To Check Your Oil Level and Other Car Fluids How To Change a Flat Tire How To Tow a Camper Trailer How To Drive a Manual Transmission How To Check Your Tires Would you like to make sure everything on your vehicle is working properly? Robert’s Collision & Repair is here to help. We offer full auto body repair, mechanical repair, tire service, detailing service, and auto paint service for your vehicles. We invite you to visit us at Robert’s Collision & Repair, located just off Highway 1 at the Del Monte Blvd. Pacific Grove exit. Our shop address is 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. Call 831-373-1534 to schedule an appointment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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