Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

Robert's Collision & Repair(831) 920-0815
Mon - Fri: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Tag Archives: family car

4th of July Celebration & Traffic Safety

4th of July Celebration & Traffic Safety

The 4th of July is one of the most highly anticipated celebrations of the summer, from the cookouts on the beach to the sparklers to the 4th of July parade that marches down Alvarado Street in Monterey each year. However, it can become extremely dangerous pretty quickly.   Given the road closures, drinks, and fireworks that we enjoy each year, the potential for harm is pretty high. According to the United States Department of Transportation, in 2015 over 200 people were killed in car and motorcycle accidents involving alcohol. On top of that, according to the National Fire Protection Agency, fireworks caused more than 15,000 fires in 2013, and a quarter of all the fires reported that year were reported on, you guessed it, the 4th of July. Surprisingly, the most common cause of fire-related injury is sparklers! In short, it is not uncommon to have serious consequences from being unsafe on the 4th of July. Including a few safety boundaries is a necessity for keeping your friends ... read more

Categories:

Events

5 Things Every Car Owner Should Know (And How To Find Out!)

5 Things Every Car Owner Should Know (And How To Find Out!)

Owning a car is a big responsibility for both new and seasoned drivers. In order to reduce stress further down the line, there are a few key things every driver should know. Luckily, these necessary basics are pretty easy to find out!   Learn the basics of maintenance. That means checking things the oil brake fluid, antifreeze, and windshield wiper fluid. Even better, learn to jump your car in case the battery dies and replace a tire. Everything you learn becomes a tool in case of emergency. Why not invest a little bit of time for less of a headache later on?   Find your car’s manual and read it. Read it again! Put it in a place where you can easily locate it again. Why? There is a lot of information specifically for your make, model, and year. Your manual will tell you which maintenance tasks should be prioritized, as well as how often those things should be addressed. Some critical ones to keep in mind are oil changes, wiper blade replacement, filter changes, fl ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Most Common Car Repairs During the Summer

Most Common Car Repairs During the Summer

For many families, the car gets a lot more mileage during the summer than during the fall, winter, and spring. As many field trips and daily commutes as there may be, the road trips to visit family and four-wheeling up to the very best camping site are far more rigorous for most vehicles. That’s why we recommend scheduling a trip to see us at Robert's Collision and Repair as soon as possible so that we can check out your car from top to bottom. We want to make sure you don’t get any surprise breakdowns coasting along 17-Mile Drive.   So to prep for summer, it’s good to know what the most frequent culprits for summer breakdowns are. From our experience, here are the most common reasons that cars come to us at Robert’s Collision & Repair in Monterey for repairs during the summer:   Overheated Engine Repair During the warmer season, your car has to work even harder to keep the engine cool, which results in many engines overheating very quic ... read more

Categories:

auto repair

How to Make Sure Your Vehicle’s A/C is Summer-Ready

How to Make Sure Your Vehicle’s A/C is Summer-Ready

The summer is finally here! Let’s hope that the Monterey weather will grace us with more sunny days than overcast ones this year. With the beautiful weather, comes that summer heat! And there’s nothing worse than being packed like sardines into a car that has a broken A/C when you’re trying to enjoy the summer months. Before you hit the road take some advice from your friendly local collision and repair shop; make sure your car’s air conditioner is ready for the trip! There are several ways to test the range of your A/C before bringing the summer fun begins.   Turn up the air conditioner as high as it can go. Test to see if there is a steady increase in cool, dry air flow from the lowest setting all the way up to full blast. If it jumps from 0 to 100 with no middle range, or if the air is damp, moldy, or smells off, this could indicate a need for a filter change or repairs. Even if you notice small differences, for instance, if it doesn’t get quite ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

June 2017 Monthly Offer -- Free Brake Inspection

June 2017 Monthly Offer -- Free Brake Inspection. Offer valid through June 30, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   Do your brakes stop on a dime? If yes, you’re in good shape. However, if your brakes are acting sluggish, or creep along when you push down on the pedal, we encourage you to take advantage of our Free Brake Inspection during the month of June.   A free brake inspection can mean a big difference in your vehicle’s safety. When you come in for a free brake inspection, we will:   Measure material of brake pads/shoes Measure thickness of brake rotors/drums Visually inspect for damaged/overheated brake components Check hydraulic system for leaks, brake fluid condition, and fluid level Check operation and condition of parking brake Visually inspect all brake system components such as calipers, master cylinder, hoses, seals, etc.   With all the summer road trips you have planned, doesn’t it make ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

How To Jump your Car

How To Jump your Car

  One of the most important things to know as a driver is how to jump your car safely. At Robert’s Collision and Auto Repair, we consider it a very basic skill but important to do properly. It is inconvenient to be unable to jump your car on your own, but even worse to attempt to do so and misfire. So perhaps this seems like a silly reminder, but we consider safety to be more important than anything else. Here are some quick directions on how exactly to jump your car.   If you don’t already have a set of jumper cables in the car, then consider investing in some for your own ease. Sometimes college campuses and large businesses will have on-site assistance in case your car battery dies that you can borrow. For example, the Del Monte shopping center has a traffic patrol that has jumper cables for you if you need to use them. Track down a buddy or flag down a friendly stranger to jump your car from. Once you have your cables and a friend’s vehicle to ju ... read more

Categories:

Car Repair

Paint is Discolored and Wearing Away: What Does it Mean?

Paint is Discolored and Wearing Away: What Does it Mean?

    As cars age, you often begin to see discoloration, staining, peeling… all sorts of problems appearing with paint. Although these can be staved off with regular washing and waxing, many have specific, sometimes preventable causes. At Robert’s Collision and Repair, we’ve seen it all when it comes to paint job problems, and we have all the tools and talent to sand down, repaint, repair, and wax your car’s paint job until it is seamless and shiny again. But just in case you’ve got some professional curiosity about how paint problems develop, here’s a few common reasons paint can wear:   Craters and air pockets can develop and mess up a vehicle’s paint job. These are a result of a bad paint job, to begin with. To paint cars, we use a spray gun to coat the vehicle evenly, but if the gun is too close to the car or is moved too slowly, air bubbles can form and when they pop, it peels back that paint. This happens pretty quickly a ... read more

Categories:

Auto Paint

Buying a New Car: Steps to get you Started

Purchasing a new car is a huge endeavor, but don’t let the overwhelm of the task deter you from finding a new vehicle if you really need one. Here are a few suggestions from everyone at Robert’s Collision about getting started on the car search.   Do your research. The first step is simply going online and searching for the features you need in a car and a price range you can manage. Do you need a 4-door or can you manage with a 2? Do you go off-roading or work in any vocation that would require a truck or something with a solid 4-wheel drive? Or do you need a compact car that allows you to buzz around the city and get in and out of tedious parking spots? Search for what you need in a car, and find the makes and models that best provide for those minimums. Consider the cost. Now that you’ve got an idea of what you’re looking for, dig more into that price tag research. How much can you afford in monthly payments? Will you buy new or used? What year model ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

May 2017 Monthly Offer -- $25 Off repairs totaling $150 or more in labor expenses.

May 2017 Monthly Offer -- $25 Off repairs totaling $150 or more in labor expenses. Offer valid through May 30, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   If you need help saving money during the month of May, take advantage of our monthly offer: $25 off repairs totaling $150 or more in labor expenses.   This offer includes important things your car needs, like:   Shocks & strut replacement Axle (CV) boot replacement Brake replacement Spark plug & wires replacement Timing belt replacement​   Folks, don’t miss out on this major money-saving opportunity! If you’ve been putting off auto repair for a while now because you think it’s going to be expensive, now is the ideal time to bring your vehicle in.   To take advantage of this May monthly deal of $25 off repairs totalling $150 or more in labor expenses, schedule an appointment with our Service Department at 831-373-1534 and mention this offer. We ... read more

Categories:

auto repair

The Interesting History of Windshield Wipers

The Interesting History of Windshield Wipers

It’s raining, it’s pouring... and before you know it, you’ll need new wiper blades! As little as we think about windshield wipers up until we need them, we virtually never question their origin.   When you think about it, windshield wipers are actually an incredible invention, and critical to driver safety. They were first invented and patented in 1903 by Mary Anderson, who observed an issue with visibility after a trolley ride one year prior. Anderson was born in Alabama, but moved to Fresno, California in 1893. A handful of others had attempted a device like this, but none were successful enough to warrant a patent until Anderson’s. By 1920, her original hand-crank windshield wiper design was a standard for automobile production.   Working in the auto industry as we do at Robert’s Collision and Repair, we have a lot of respect for all the contributors throughout history who have improved the safety and functionality of cars. We carry that m ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

It’s All In The Detailing… The Ultimate Facial for Exterior Paint

If you just made your final car payment and want to celebrate this milestone, why not treat your vehicle to an Ultimate Facial? Robert’s Collision & Repair offers an Ultimate Facial for Exterior Paint that will help bring back the showroom floor luster your vehicle had when it was brand new.   This Ultimate Facial for Exterior Paint is only $250.00, and is available by appointment. Rental cars are available as needed. Here’s what the Ultimate Facial for Exterior Paint includes:   Platinum Wash -- Full Service Hand Wash Paint Protection Package Wheel Bright / Tire Shine Clean Glass Air Freshener Vacuum Leather Protectant Complete Micro Buff Clay Magic Complete Carnauba Wax ​   If you want to do something else for your vehicle, you’re welcome to choose from our other detailing services, such as:   Interior Complete Carpet OR Seat Shampoo Interior Complete Carpet AND Seat Shampoo Gold Wash Silver Wash Paint Touch Ups D ... read more

Categories:

Auto Paint

What You Should Know Before Making a Road Trip to Big Sur This Spring

What You Should Know Before Making a Road Trip to Big Sur This Spring

Big Sur is a popular travel destination for adventurous road trippers and vacationers alike. For those who’ve never been, Big Sur is simply the coast south of Carmel-By-the-Sea, and north of San Simeon, and sequestered by the Santa Lucia Mountains. The area is best known for hiking, camping, beaches, and all sorts of opportunities for adventure. Tourism in this area is essential for the modest community of families and small businesses who call Big Sur their home. But, even with blue skies and cleared roads, the drive can easily become treacherous for unprepared travelers. In order to facilitate the happy travel of as many consumers, customers, and commuters as possible, we have a few resources we’d like to share to help ensure you have a safe trip! Regardless of where your starting point is, you’ll have to take Highway 1 to get into Big Sur (unless you’re a fan of mountain climbing, of course!). Unfortunately, due to the recent extreme weather conditions, many ... read more

Categories:

Events

April 2017 Monthly Offer -- $10 Off Service

April 2017 Monthly Offer -- $10 Off Service. Offer valid through April 30, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   It’s Tax Time, and in an effort to help our customers save money, we are offering a flat $10 off service. Which service? Any service.   It doesn’t matter if it’s an oil change or a major 60,000-mile service. We are willing to knock $10 off any service you need. Yep, that’s how we help you stretch your dollars so you can pay Uncle Sam and remain safe on the road, all at the same time.   This offer is good for the month of April only, so don’t miss out on this grand opportunity to save. To take advantage of this special $10 Off Service, schedule an appointment with our Service Department at 831-373-1534 and mention this offer. We look forward to seeing you soon!  

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

My Car is Not Accelerating: What Does it Mean?

At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we hear about this particular issue very frequently. So from the experts, here are a couple reasons why your car might not be accelerating. Emergency Brake First things first, check if your emergency brake is on. This prevents you from moving at all, and it’s a pretty common mistake. Neutral Similarly, if your car is set in neutral, it may stay at a stand still just as with an emergency brake or roll away unintentionally. This is another easy mistake with a pretty easy solution. Electrical Issues This is not so much an easy solution. Electrical issues will require a maintenance professional to take a look at your car. Often, it has to do with the car misreading its own pollution error. Luckily, we know a great mechanic! (hint: it’s us!) Worn Timing Belt This simply means that you’ll need your timing belt repaired or replaced. As you accelerate, the whee ... read more

Categories:

Car Repair

5 Steps to Declutter Your Vehicle

There are many ways to clean and organize your car, but all of them start with some good, old-fashioned spring cleaning. Here are our 5 steps to de-cluttering your car!   Cleaning. Yes, it’s the top of the list. Vacuuming the seats and floors, wiping down the dash and console, vacuuming the floor mats, washing your vehicle, and protecting it with wax or a sealant. All these regular cleaning tasks may be chores, but it’s the best place to start when tidying and sorting out the goodies from the trash in your car. Next, consider what you really need to have in your car. Return your mugs and water bottles, and miscellaneous containers to their rightful place indoors for a good wash. It would also do some good to go through your glove box, center console, and other storage compartments in your car. Do you really need every single paper evidencing your car’s SMOG from 2003 until now? Keep the necessary paperwork, and store or shred the rest. Tackle the trunk. I ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

March 2017 Special: Free Check Engine Light Scan

March 2017 Special:  Free Check Engine Light Scan Does not include diagnosis or repair. Offer valid through March 31, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   Does your “Check Engine” light turn on when you start your vehicle and stay on? If yes, your vehicle is trying to tell you something’s up. It may be as simple as your gas cap isn’t sealed properly, or something more serious. Either way, it is important to get to the bottom of what’s happening, and that is why we are offering a Free Check Engine Light Scan during the month of March.   Robert’s will connect our diagnostic equipment to your vehicle and perform a scan for any system faults. Any fault codes will be recorded and documented. Charges will apply for actual diagnosis and repair. To take advantage of this March special of a Free Check Engine Light Scan, schedule an appointment with our Service Department at 831-373-1534 and mention this o ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

10 Most Common Car Repair Problems

At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we’ve seen the whole range of car troubles! Here’s a handful of the most common problems that auto repair shops like us see. Our list here happens to also be backed by several studies done on auto repair too. If you’re having any trouble with any of these parts of your car, come see us!   10. Driver-Installed Add-Ons Often, when drivers install extras like alarm systems, radios, or wireless devices in their car, it will divert power from other necessary car systems and cause problems. It’s best to have these things installed at the store or at an auto shop to ensure this doesn’t become a problem.   9. Gaskets Although certainly not the most common culprit of automotive issues, improperly functioning gaskets can reduce the fuel efficiency of your car.   8. Ignition Coils These work together with spark plugs to get your car moving, and are not very driver-friendly when it comes to repairs an ... read more

Categories:

Car Repair

February 2017 Special: $50 Off Timing Belt Replacement.

$50 Off Timing Belt Replacement. Offer valid through February 28, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   How’s your timing belt? Is it time to be replaced? If yes, Robert’s Collision & Repair has a deal for you that’s perfectly timed… $50 off timing belt replacement, good through the month of February.   Regardless of how many puns we can make about time, your vehicle’s timing belt is a highly critical component that must not be overlooked. If your timing belt breaks, it could mean catastrophic damage to your engine, and that could run you thousands of dollars in repair.   To stay on the safe side, be proactive and replace your timing belt when your vehicle requires major service before it becomes cracked, worn, torn or loose. Our offer of $50 off timing belt replacement is a sweetheart deal, and it’ll help keep you and your passengers the major inconvenience of a breakdown on a highway or by ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Tags:

Marina , Monterey , Pacific Grove , Pebble Beach , Robert's Auto Repair , Seaside , car maintenance , precision , Del Rey Oaks , healthy engine , Sand City , feeling good , high-tech , maintenance , Carmel Valley , automobile , education , knowledge , Salinas , truck , dealer , green-certified , mechanic , cars , Carmel , customer service , older vehicles , car repair , blog , Honda , Toyota , car repair monterey , Nissan , auto repair monterey , Auto repair Pacific Grove , Auto repair Seaside , Big Sur , Car repair Pacific Grove , Car repair Seaside , Monterey Peninsula , crossover , family car , SUV , van , Corral de Tierra , Castroville , Prunedale , Watsonville , Acura , North Monterey County , car service , Chevrolet , Chevy , Moss Landing , Dodge , Ford , Subaru , Volvo repair , GM Repair , GMC repair , Lexus Repair , Infiniti Repair , Mini Cooper , Mini Service , Mercedes repair , Cadillac repair , Volkswagen repair , VW repair , Buick repair , Chrysler Repair , Lincoln Repair , Hyundai repair , Isuzu Repair , Jeep Repair , Mitsubishi Repair , Pontiac Repair , Saab Repair , Customer Rewards Card , Saturn Repair , Jaguar Repair , Kia repair , Mazda repair , Major service , minor service , Mileage Service , Defense Language Institute , DLI , Naval Postgraduate School , NPS , Get your 60K Service at Robert's Auto Repair , Engine Service at Robert’s Auto Repair , Robert’s Auto Repair , Timing Belts , Drive Belts , Complete Tune-Ups , Chualar , Gonzales , Greenfield , King City , Soledad , South Monterey County

4 Tips for Driving With Your Dog

A road trip with your best friend! Your best furry friend, that is. Nothing can top the utter, childlike joy of a dog’s smiling face out the window as you drive along. As much as driving your beloved pet around with you can be fun for them and sometimes necessary (visiting the vet, the groomer, moving, etc.) it can become very dangerous, very easily. We’re going to let you in on a few safety tips for your canine companion, for puppies and for full grown dogs alike.   1. Bring Supplies Regardless of whether you’re going for a long trip or a short run to the groomer and back, make sure you have everything you need for your dog, especially puppies! Collars, ID tags with a current phone number/address, water, doggie bags, and even some kibble and treats. Puppies can’t exactly “hold it.” You never know if you’ll be in an accident or delayed in another way, so be prepared. If something does happen with and your dog is with you, it’s one ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Survival Tips While Stuck In Your Car

Being stranded with your car is undoubtedly a scary experience. Being stuck in your car is particularly scary if you are caught in a blizzard, stuck in a flash flood, riding through a major earthquake, or drive over a cliff. Believe it or not, if you are prepared, the situation can seem a lot less scary and much more manageable.   Robert’s Collision and Repair has compiled a list of survival tips if you and your family are ever stuck in your car:   Don’t abandon your car in a blizzard or storm: If you are far away from a town or city, walking away from your car can be very dangerous. If you are caught in a storm or blizzard, your car is excellent shelter. Do abandon your car if you are caught in a flood or enter a body of water.  Roll down the windows or break the windows to escape, in case the water pressure won’t allow you to open the doors. Use a flag: If you are stranded on the side of the road, tie a flag on your antenna to alert upcoming d ... read more

Categories:

Events

Don’t Ignore It When You Hit a Curb

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

Categories:

Auto Body

How to Make Your Tires Last Longer

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

Categories:

tire service

What Happens When The Alternator Dies?

How is the health of your vehicle’s alternator?  Do you know what happens to your car, truck, or SUV when the alternator dies? Here are six signs that your alternator may be having challenges:   You need to jumpstart your vehicle on a frequent basis. The lights on your vehicle are dim and not as bright as they should be. The battery light on your dashboard is on. The smell of burning rubber may indicate that a belt is not working properly. You hear odd grinding or whining noises. Your electrical system is not operating properly.   So, what contributes to alternator failure?  The alternator is the generator for your vehicle’s electrical system. Here are four things that could lead to alternator failure.   If your battery is going bad, it could contribute to alternator failure. Dirty battery terminals could cause the alternator to not start. If your cables and connections are worn out, they can cause alternator failure. An alternator belt ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Top 5 Reasons Robert’s Collision & Repair Is The Premiere Auto Repair Center on the Monterey Peninsula

Robert’s Collision & Repair has earned the reputation as the leading auto repair center on the Monterey Peninsula, but what exactly separates us from our competitors? We have a compiled a list of reasons:   Estimators located on site at our facility make the process of auto repair much easier. They can quickly estimate the cost and extent of the damage, so we begin repairing your vehicle that much faster. We’re a preferred vendor for several insurance companies, including GEICO, Farmers, State Farm, Progressive, USAA, and several other auto insurance carriers. In order to become a preferred vendor, you need to meet several standards and requirements. Basically, it is a big deal. Insurance companies trust us to properly repair your car. Our customer service is both professional and personable. We pay close attention to effectively and efficiently service your vehicle, while keeping you informed each step of the way. We boast an on-site Enterprise Rent-A-Car ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

November Special: 10% Off Transmission Service

10% Off Transmission Service Offer valid through November 30, 2016. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   For many car owners, transmissions are one of the most overlooked and oft forgotten elements of a vehicle. Why? We’ve been trained to change our oil, change our spark plugs, change our windshield wipers, etc., but we often forget to notice the transmission until the car won’t go.   To prepare your vehicle for the upcoming holiday shopping and road trips, we are offering the following November special:  10% Off Transmission Service.   Transmission service is important and here are four reasons why:   Transmission service prevents “lock up”. Lock up happens when your vehicle’s transmission gets so hot that your vehicle simply shuts down. Transmission service saves money in the long run. Changing your automatic transmission fluid when it turns black can help prevent most transmission problems f ... read more

Categories:

Car Repair

5 Driver Safety Tips for Halloween

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

Categories:

Events

How To Protect Yourself When Selling Your Car

It can be quite the challenge to sell your vehicle.  We have to worry about so many things, from finding the right price to writing the appropriate ads, that sometimes we overlook our safety. Robert’s Collision & Repair can help. We have compiled a list of tips to help you protect yourself when you are selling your car:   Be friendly: It helps to maintain a positive and friendly attitude during meetings with potential buyers. Try not to meet at your house: For obvious reasons, it is probably not the best idea to meet at your house. Meet during the day: It is not the smartest idea to meet in the dark. Daytime is the best time to meet a potential buyer. Do not carry excess cash with you: If you have any cash with you, keep it in your locked car or somewhere safe and out of sight. Meet at a police station: If you are looking for a safe place to meet, try your local police st ... read more

Categories:

Events

What Could Cause Engine Misfire?

What exactly is engine misfire? When your vehicle’s check engine appears on your dashboard, essentially, your engine is misfiring. There are a number of reasons why your engine could be misfiring. However, at Robert’s Collision & Repair, many of our customers face a similar problem.   If this scenario sounds at all familiar, we encourage you to bring your vehicle into our shop as soon as possible:   You are driving home in a heavy rainstorm one night, and you accidently drive through a puddle. This, of course, results in a wave of water washing over your car’s hood and window. Your check engine light immediately begins to flash, and your engine begins to misfire. Fortunately, you get home safely, but the next morning the check engine light appears again. After a few minutes, the light goes away. This pattern goes on for a few days and then stops. However, next time it rains, you are faced with the same problem. As you can see, this is a complex iss ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Tags:

Marina , Monterey , Pacific Grove , Pebble Beach , Robert's Auto Repair , Seaside , car maintenance , Del Rey Oaks , healthy engine , Sand City , maintenance , Carmel Valley , automobile , education , knowledge , Salinas , truck , green-certified , mechanic , cars , Carmel , customer service , older vehicles , blog , Honda , Toyota , car repair monterey , Nissan , auto repair monterey , Auto repair Pacific Grove , Auto repair Seaside , Big Sur , Car repair Pacific Grove , Car repair Seaside , Monterey Peninsula , crossover , family car , motorcycle , SUV , van , Corral de Tierra , Castroville , Prunedale , Watsonville , North Monterey County , BMW , car service , Chevrolet , Chevy , Moss Landing , Dodge , Ford , Subaru , Volvo repair , Volvo service , GM Repair , GM Service , GMC repair , GMC service , Lexus Repair , Lexus Service , Infiniti Repair , Infiniti Service , Mini Cooper , Mini Repair , Mini Service , April Showers , Mercedes repair , Mercedes service , Cadillac repair , Cadillac service , Volkswagen repair , Volkswagen servie , VW repair , VW service , Buick repair , Buick service , Chrysler Repair , Chrysler Service , Lincoln Repair , Lincoln Service , Hyundai repair , Hyundai service , Isuzu Repair , Isuzu Service , Jeep Repair , Jeep Service , Mitsubishi Repair , Mitsubishi Service , Pontiac Repair , Pontiac Service , Saab Repair , Saab Service , Saturn Repair , Saturn Service , Jaguar Repair , Jaguar Service , Kia repair , Kia service , Mazda repair , Mazda service , Laguna Seca , Major service , minor service , Defense Language Institute , DLI , Naval Postgraduate School , engines , Complete Tune-Ups

What’s Wrong With the Wipers?

What’s Wrong With the Wipers?

The rainy season is around the corner. This means we need to make sure our wipers are in tip-top shape. It is easy to forget about our windshield wipers, compared to our car’s brakes or transmission. For clear visibility, you must stay vigilant and take care to replace your windshield wipers as needed.   It is important to keep an eye on our windshield wipers. When you notice these signs, we recommend contacting Robert’s Collision & Repair to schedule a windshield wiper replacement:   Streaking left on the glass. Your windshield wiper makes noises when in use. When operating, your windshield wipers slightly bounce.   Sometimes windshield wiper replacement will not solve the problem, so it begs the question: What exactly is wrong with my windshield wipers? There can be a myriad of issues causing your wipers to act up. However, this is a common issue we see our customers struggling with. Their windshield wipers work perfectly fine on the intermi ... read more

October = 10% Off Labor for Car Battery Replacement

10% Off Labor for Car Battery Replacement. Offer valid through October 31, 2016. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   October is Car Care Month and that is why Robert’s Collision & Repair is offering the following special:  10% Off Labor for Car Battery Replacement.   With all the electronics and systems pulling power from the car battery, it’s no wonder that batteries die more quickly. Today’s automobile electrical systems are getting more intricate and are stressing the limits of current technology, but they are generally designed from the same principles used 30-plus years ago. The battery is the vehicle’s power storage device used to start the engine and help operate the electrical accessories installed on your car. Average battery life has become shorter as energy requirements have increased. Lifespan depends on usage, which now averages 6 months to 48 months, yet only 30% of all batteries actually reach t ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Tags:

Marina , Monterey , Pacific Grove , Pebble Beach , Repair , Robert's , Robert's Auto Repair , Seaside , car maintenance , Del Rey Oaks , Sand City , maintenance , Carmel Valley , automobile , Salinas , truck , green-certified , mechanic , cars , Carmel , Robert , customer service , Laguna Seca Raceway , older vehicles , repair & process , car repair , safety , blog , car repair monterey , Halloween , Auto , auto repair monterey , Auto repair Pacific Grove , Auto repair Seaside , Big Sur , Car repair Pacific Grove , Car repair Seaside , Monterey Peninsula , family car , SUV , van , Corral de Tierra , Castroville , Prunedale , Watsonville , North Monterey County , Chevrolet , Chevy , Moss Landing , Dodge , Ford , Subaru , Volvo repair , Volvo service , GM Repair , GM Service , GMC repair , GMC service , Lexus Repair , Lexus Service , Infiniti Repair , Infiniti Service , Mini Cooper , Mini Repair , Mini Service , Mercedes repair , Mercedes service , Caddys , Cadillac repair , Cadillac service , Volkswagen repair , Volkswagen servie , VW repair , VW service , Buick repair , Buick service , Chrysler Repair , Chrysler Service , Lincoln Repair , Lincoln Service , Hyundai repair , Hyundai service , Isuzu Repair , Isuzu Service , Jeep Repair , Jeep Service , Mitsubishi Repair , Mitsubishi Service , Pontiac Repair , Pontiac Service , Saab Repair , Saab Service , Saturn Repair , Saturn Service , Daewoo , Jaguar Repair , Jaguar Service , Kia repair , Kia service , Mazda repair , Mazda service , Laguna Seca , oil changes , Major service , minor service , Defense Language Institute , DLI , Naval Postgraduate School , NPS , Automotive Electrical Systems , Chualar , Gonzales , Greenfield , King City , Soledad , South Monterey County , Why Won't My Car Start? , Falling Leaves , Time To Prepare Your Vehicle For The Holidays , money , save , inspection , travel , all major vehicles , Carmel Highlands , Toro Park , 234 Ramona , 234 Ramona Avenue , CA , Espanol , Spanish , End of Summer Auto Maintenance , Autumn , Fall

Top Autumn Road Trips on the Central Coast

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

Categories:

Events

How to Protect Your Vehicle’s Paint

You can think of your vehicle’s paint as its skin. Just like how we have to protect our skin from harm, we have to do the same for our car’s paint. The first step in protecting your car’s paint is to recognize what you should avoid, as a car-owner. The team at Robert’s Collision & Repair has compiled a list of what you should be wary of:   Sun: Just like our skin, the sun’s UV rays can cause severe damage to your vehicle’s paint. In the hot sun, your car’s paint actually expands, which means it can absorb more dirt and grime. Bird droppings: Not only do bird droppings look less than pleasant, they are also harmful to our car’s paint. In fact, they are very acidic, so they are able to easily erode paint and clear-coat finishes quite easily. Tree Sap: It is easy to see why sap is an enemy to our car’s paint. It is sticky, difficult to remove, and an absolute magnet for ... read more

Labor Day Special Offer

10% discount on labor up to $100 for any mechanical repair or service. Offer valid through September 9, 2016. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   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. Call it a labor of love, but we want our customers to know how much they mean to us, and that is why we are discounting 10% off labor up to $100 for any mechanical repair or service.   What could you do for your vehicle that would qualify for this offer? Here are a few mechanical repairs or services that could extend the life of your vehicle and save you money at the same time:   Drive belt replacement Transmission oil service Power steering fluid service A/C system check & charge Coolant flush With all the back to school activities and preparations for a busy Autumn, doesn’t it make sense to take advantage of our September offer, which ends Septemb ... read more

Tags:

Marina , Monterey , Pacific Grove , Pebble Beach , Repair , Robert's , Robert's Auto Repair , Seaside , car maintenance , Coolant Service , Del Rey Oaks , fluids , healthy engine , Sand City , maintenance , Carmel Valley , automobile , Salinas , Carmel , customer service , services , repair & process , back to school , safety , blog , car repair monterey , service , brake check , auto repair monterey , Auto repair Pacific Grove , Auto repair Seaside , Big Sur , Car repair Pacific Grove , Car repair Seaside , Monterey Peninsula , family car , SUV , van , Brake Service , Corral de Tierra , Castroville , Prunedale , Watsonville , North Monterey County , Moss Landing , September , oil changes , Major service , minor service , A/C service , Air conditioning , Defense Language Institute , DLI , Naval Postgraduate School , NPS , Corral de Teirra , engines , Manual Transmissions , Clutches , Drive Belts , Hoses , Complete Tune-Ups , Filter Replacement , Lube , Oil , Air & Fuel Filters , Chualar , Gonzales , Greenfield , King City , Soledad , South Monterey County , money , save , all major vehicles , auto service , auto maintenance , Carmel Highlands , 234 Ramona Ave , Toro Park , Montero , Monterra , California , Robert's Collision & Repair , CSUMB , Labor Day , mechanical repair , Aptos , Capitola , La Selva Beach , Santa Cruz , Soquel , Monterey Bay , Spreckels , Live Oak , Rio Del Mar , SUVs , trucks , vans , convertible , Canyon Del Rey , Monterey County , River Road , Hyatt Regency , Pasadera , Tehama , Aromas , Cannery Row , Santa Lucia Highlands , Collision & Repair Advice

August Specials: 10% Off Labor for Tire Rotation Service

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

Monterey County’s Top Road Trips

Why not start summer off with a fun road trip through Monterey County? Monterey County is home to beautiful, scenic drives, and June is the perfect time to take advantage of it. We have compiled a list of Monterey County’s top road trips:   Highway One: Known to be the best scenic route in Monterey County, Highway One is a road trip not to miss. In fact, it has been named one of the top scenic drives in the world. This road is literally in our background. Why not enjoy it? 17 Mile Drive: 17 Mile Drive has earned a reputation for being one of the most beautiful places in the world. From gazing upon magnificent mansions to beautiful beaches, 17 Mile Drive has a little something for everybody. Old Coast Road: Before Highway One, this road was the only way to get into Big Sur. This historic road is similar to a time-machine. It will transport you back to the olden days, complete with a single lane dirt road and beautiful s ... read more

Get Your Vehicle Ready for This Year’s Car Shows & Festivals

This year’s car show and festival season are just around the corner. Is your car in tip-top shape, both exteriorly and interiorly? Our team would be delighted to answer that question. When you bring your vehicle in Robert’s Collision and Repair, our team will:   Detail and wash your car to perfection. At our 26,000 square foot facility, we will thoroughly detail your vehicle. Your car’s paint will sparkle. Your wheels and tires will shine. Your car’s carpet will smell and look fresh. Our detailing service is the ultimate facial for your beloved vehicle. We boast the latest and most advanced technology in the industry to service and repair your vehicle. From digital photo imaging to computerized paint mixing, we have it all, and we are not afraid to use it. Your car will in pristine condition for the upcoming show and festival season. Does your vehicle need new tires? Look no further than Robert’s Collision & Repair. Our tire center is here t ... read more

Where to Off-Road on the Central Coast

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

Five Signs Your Vehicle Needs A New Battery

With all the high-tech functions in today’s newer vehicles, the car battery often loses power faster than expected. Why? Your car battery is already supporting the vehicle’s sophisticated electrical system, but it wears down more quickly after you plug in your phone, your portable music players, your portable video players, etc.   If you’re not sure when your car battery is wearing out, here are five signs it’s time to install a new one:   Your engine is slow to start, or the cranking seems sluggish. Your check engine light is illuminated. You can see through the transparent casing that your battery’s fluid level is low. Your battery is covered in gunk or is bloated, which means there could be a fluid leak or it’s enduring excessive heat. Your car battery is three or more years old. Don’t be caught with a dead battery. Bring your vehicle into Robert’s Collision & Repair for battery replacement and service. We will be ... read more

Are Oil Changes Really That Important?

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

Rekindling An Old Love: How To Make Your Vehicle Feel Fresh & New Again

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

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Thanksgiving Weekend

Many families hit the road during Thanksgiving Weekend, and your family may be part of the traffic heading out of town. What is the safest time to travel? Here are some helpful tips to make your Thanksgiving Weekend fun and safe. According to a AAA estimate, 81 percent of Americans will travel to their Thanksgiving destination via car this year. Surprised by this number? The weakened economy will force more people to stay home this Thanksgiving, but those that can travel will still do so by car. Preparing Your Vehicle For Thanksgiving Travel
Robert’s Auto Repair will be happy to do a FREE vehicle safety check if you call 831-373-1534 for your vehicle's next appointment and mention this blog. Your safety is our priority and we would be honored to have the opportunity to make sure your vehicle is hazard-free. Preparing Yourself for Thanksgiving Travel
W

... read more

Categories:

Events
12
Robert's Collision & Repair - Auto body is committed to ensuring effective communication and digital accessibility to all users. We are continually improving the user experience for everyone, and apply the relevant accessibility standards to achieve these goals. We welcome your feedback. Please call Robert's Collision & Repair (831) 373-1535 if you have any issues in accessing any area of our website.