Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

If you’ve recently been in a car accident, one of the first questions that comes up is: How much is this going to cost? That’s where a collision repair estimate comes in. Whether you’re paying out of pocket or working through insurance, understanding how these estimates are built and what affects the final number can help you feel more informed and less overwhelmed. At CARSTAR Robert’s Collision in Monterey, we believe in transparency, education, and honest service. In this blog, we’ll explain how collision repair estimates work, what affects the cost, and how you can make smarter decisions when choosing a repair facility. What Is a Collision Repair Estimate? A collision repair estimate is a detailed breakdown of the parts, labor, and services required to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. It’s essentially a roadmap for your repair. Most repair estimates include: Parts needed (OEM, aftermarket, or recycled) Labor costs (body, p ... read more

When your vehicle is in for collision repair, one of the most important decisions you or your repair shop will make is about the parts used. If you've heard terms like OEM parts, aftermarket, or recycled components, you may be wondering: What’s the difference? And more importantly, why does it matter for your vehicle? At CARSTAR Robert’s Collision in Monterey, we prioritize transparency and quality in everything we do. That’s why we believe it’s essential for every driver to understand what OEM parts are, and why they play a critical role in safe, factory-quality repairs. What Does OEM Mean? OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. In simple terms, OEM parts are the same components your vehicle came with when it rolled off the assembly line. They are made by or for the car’s original manufacturer and meet all the same specifications for fit, performance, and safety. So when you install an OEM bumper, headlight, or fender, it’s the part ... read more

A collision is stressful enough without wondering whether your car’s frame is damaged. You may see dents on the surface, but the real question is: Is the structure beneath intact? Knowing how to spot signs of frame damage early can keep you safer, prevent costly repairs later, and help ensure your car is restored right the first time. In this blog, we’ll walk through how to tell if your car’s frame is damaged after a collision, what it means for your safety and insurance, and what steps you should take next. Why Frame Damage Matters Your car’s frame is like its backbone. It supports the entire structure, keeps the body aligned, and plays a huge role in how your vehicle handles and protects you during a crash. After a collision, even if the car looks fine from the outside, frame damage can still exist. Ignoring it can lead to: Uneven tire wear Pulling to one side when driving Misaligned doors or gaps in body seams Compromised safety in future collisions T ... read more

A car accident can turn an ordinary day into a stressful, confusing experience in seconds. Your heart is racing, your thoughts are scattered, and you may not know where to start. Knowing what to do immediately after a car accident can make a huge difference in protecting your safety, your insurance claim, and your vehicle’s repair outcome. At CARSTAR Robert’s Collision in Monterey, we help drivers every day who wish they had clearer guidance right after an accident. This guide walks you through the exact steps to take before heading to a repair shop, so nothing gets missed, and nothing becomes more complicated than it needs to be. Start With Safety First The very first priority after any collision is your well-being. One of the most important safety steps after a car crash is checking yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If the vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move them out of traffic. Turn on hazard ligh ... read more