Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

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

Tag Archives: fluids

How Servicing Your Vehicle Power System Will Help You Avoid Trouble

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

Categories:

Blog

The Importance of Fluid Exchange

The Importance of Fluid Exchange

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash The Importance of Fluid Exchange It isn’t just our oil that we need to worry about, our vehicles run several types of fluid, and all of them play an important role in keeping us on the road. Our vehicles contain brake fluid, engine coolant, engine oil, transmission fluid, differential fluid, and more.   The loss of fluid from month-to-month use of a car is more than most people might think. Monterey Country sees its share of variables that affect our fluids between the salty coastal air, dusty agricultural roads, and moist driving conditions.    Our vehicles have filters that help sift out some of the airborne particulates and other things that might enter our fluid systems ... read more

Categories:

Blog

Back To School and the importance of brakes

Back To School and the importance of brakes

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

Categories:

Blog

Left, Right, and Left Again: Reliving your first year of driving

Left, Right, and Left Again: Reliving your first year of driving

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

Categories:

Blog

Salvaged, Used and Takeoff Parts

Salvaged, Used and Takeoff Parts

    Used parts from a junkyard can be a fantastic alternative to aftermarket parts, UNLESS that used part is also an aftermarket part. Cars can be in an accident more than once. If a vehicle that is in a wrecking yard, say, from a front-end impact and your vehicle requires a left rear door, this part could be a great option. What if that same car had been in an accident prior and was repaired before the front-end collision which made it a total loss? That used part is now not only pulled from the wrecking yard; it is also an aftermarket quality part. That is like doubling down on alternative parts.   Who finds these parts anyway? Used parts go through many hands before they reach a body shop. First, a vehicle has to hit 70% threshold of the resale value before qualifying as a total loss. Once a car is deemed a total loss, it is then towed to a wrecking yard to await tear down. Salvage yards usually have a big fenced-in area as well as different warehouses to store ve ... read more

Categories:

Detailing

Tags:

Marina , Monterey , Pacific Grove , Pebble Beach , Robert's Auto Repair , Seaside , auto body shop , car maintenance , paint , restore , Del Rey Oaks , fluids , healthy engine , overheating , Radiator repair , Sand City , Carmel Valley , auto body , automobile , education , knowledge , Salinas , truck , auto body repair , green-certified , mechanic , Carmel , family , customer service , detail center , how to , learn , process , products , services , environmentally friendly paint , waterborne paint , older vehicles , repair & process , car repair , free inspection , safety , blog , Farmer's , Geico , Insurance , Triple A , 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 , lighting systems , Brake Service , Brakes and Rotors , Corral de Tierra , Castroville , Prunedale , Watsonville , Acura , North Monterey County , BMW , spot welder , Chevrolet , Chevy , Moss Landing , Dodge , Ford , Subaru , Volvo repair , GMC service , Lexus Service , Infiniti Service , Mini Repair , Mercedes service , Cadillac repair , Volkswagen repair , Buick service , Chrysler Service , Lincoln Service , Hyundai service , Isuzu Service , Jeep Service , Mitsubishi Service , Pontiac Service , Saab Repair , Saturn Repair , Jaguar Repair , Kia repair , Mazda repair , oil changes , Major service , minor service , A/C service , Defense Language Institute , DLI , Naval Postgraduate School , NPS , Robert’s Auto Repair , Oil , Air & Fuel Filters , Chualar , Gonzales , Greenfield , King City , Soledad , South Monterey County , Customer Rewards , body repair , body shop

What is OEM insurance?

What is OEM insurance?

What is OEM insurance?   Updated Blog 1/8/23: When it comes to securing the right auto insurance policy, many factors demand your consideration. One crucial aspect often overlooked is the choice between Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket parts. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the significance of OEM insurance, shedding light on its benefits, alternatives, and how it can impact your overall auto insurance experience. Understanding OEM Insurance OEM insurance stands as a vital add-on to your standard auto insurance policy. It ensures that, in the unfortunate event of an accident, only OEM parts will be used to restore your vehicle. These parts are specifically crafted by your car's manufacturer, adhering to stringent safety and quality standards. Opting for OEM insurance provides a guarantee that your car will be brought back to its factory specifications, maintaining its original integrity. Requesting OEM Parts After an Accident In the aftermat ... read more

Categories:

Car Repair

Tags:

Marina , Monterey , Pacific Grove , Pebble Beach , Repair , Robert's , Robert's Auto Repair , Seaside , auto body shop , detail , alignment , car maintenance , precision , detail service , paint , Coolant Service , Del Rey Oaks , fluids , healthy engine , Radiator repair , Sand City , high-tech , maintenance , Carmel Valley , auto body , automobile , education , knowledge , Salinas , truck , green-certified , mechanic , cars , Carmel , family , customer service , environmentally friendly paint , repair & process , car repair , blog , Farmer's , Geico , Insurance , Triple A , 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 , Tire Repair , Monterey Peninsula , windshield wipers , wiper blades , family car , SUV , van , Tire Balancing , lighting systems , lights , Brake Service , Brakes and Rotors , Corral de Tierra , Rotor Service , Castroville , Prunedale , Watsonville , Acura , North Monterey County , BMW , Chevrolet , Chevy , Moss Landing , Dodge , Ford , Subaru , Volvo repair , GM Repair , Lexus Repair , Infiniti Repair , Mini Cooper , Mercedes repair , Cadillac repair , Volkswagen repair , VW repair , Buick service , Chrysler Repair , Lincoln Repair , Hyundai service , Isuzu Service , Jeep Service , Mitsubishi Service , Pontiac Service , Saab Service , Saturn Service , Jaguar Repair , Kia service , Mazda repair , oil changes , Major service , minor service , A/C service , Air conditioning , Defense Language Institute , DLI , Naval Postgraduate School , NPS , Your Vehicle's New Year's Resolutions , Chualar , Gonzales , Greenfield , King City , Soledad , South Monterey County , OEM insurance

What to do if your car overheats!

What to do if your car overheats!

  Even the most proactive vehicle owner can find themselves dealing with a car that’s overheated. It’s true that if you stay on a regular preventive maintenance schedule, not only will you save yourself money in the long run, you’ll significantly decrease the chances of ending up broken down on the side of the road.     Regardless, if it ever happens to you, make sure you know what to do to minimize the damage that’s already been done. The worst thing you can do is to keep driving it like nothing's wrong.    Your best bet is to pull over immediately. The more you drive after it overheats, the more extensive the damage. Even so, stay safe and pull over in a good location and turn off the engine. Don’t be in a hurry to open the hood. Wait until it’s completely cooled down. You may not be able to see that on your temperature gauge on the dash, so just don’t rush.  Pull out your owner’s manual if you&r ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Flying WHAT? Cars???

 Flying WHAT? Cars???

Flying cars aren’t just for Harry Potter and his friends. When it comes to the future, we don’t always know what it holds, but we do know that flying automobiles will become something real instead of something that’s been relegated to the imagination. From flying delivery trucks to airbuses… okay, so it won’t exactly look like Fed-Ex and UPS trucks with wings, but you will have to look to the skies to see them coming. A lot of the technology being developed focuses on automation as well as the bigger issues our current modes of transportation presents. Boeing is working on numerous technologies that will lead to automated ways to get around in a ride-sharing capacity. So not only will we be flying around when we want to get somewhere, but it won’t even (necessarily) be us doing the flying.   Big companies like Boeing aren’t the only ones diving into the world of aerial travel; plenty of do-it-yourselfers are hitting it hard too. F ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Oil change, shmoil change. Who needs it?!

Oil change, shmoil change. Who needs it?!

If you’re like me, you don’t pay as much attention to the needs of your car as often as you should. For most of us, we know what we like in the way of auto aesthetics and we want to get to where we need to go with as little challenge as possible. Well, that’s all fine and dandy, but if we refuse to provide our vehicle with some much-needed love, then it might simply refuse to love us in return and leave us stranded on the roadside. It’s not just about a pretty face and just like humans, if we don’t take care of what’s under the hood, the results will not be kind to us.  Yes, cars these days can often go much longer than the olden-days-recommended 3,000 miles, but they still need changing once in awhile. Oil is the lubricant your engine needs in order to run. Period. Without it, your engine will seize up and you’ll be looking at either a seriously ridiculous repair bill or you will need to buy a new (to you) car. Preferably one whose owner ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Love Your Car

Love Your Car

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

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Driving with Your Trusty Co-pilot, AKA Your Pet

Driving with Your Trusty Co-pilot, AKA Your Pet

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

What Noises are NOT Good Noises

Just like a human, sometimes your car gives you signs that things aren’t going so well and it’s time to bring your vehicle into Robert’s Collision & Repair before it gets worse. Sometimes, also like a human, they keep it to themselves and just keep moving along. The later situation is exactly why regular maintenance is so important as it gives our auto mechanics a chance to see what might be creeping up before it turns into a real problem. The following, however, is a short list of the sounds that are telling you to get ‘er done sooner than later. Squealing or grinding noise coming from the brakes. Squealing or screeching can mean a worn pad. When it starts grinding, you’re usually talking about metal on metal… pads are gone. You never want to mess with your brakes. The longer you wait, the more dangerous it becomes to drive, because your brakes are no longer working at maximum capacity. AND the longer you wait for the more it’s going to ... read more

Categories:

auto repair

What to ask when you’re trying to choose the right automotive shop for you and your vehicle.

What to ask when you’re trying to choose the right automotive shop for you and your vehicle.

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

Categories:

Car Repair

The Corvette: A look at the original model and what we can expect in the next generation.

The Corvette: A look at the original model and what we can expect in the next generation.

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

Categories:

auto repair

Safety on the Road This Summer

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

Categories:

Car Repair

Barn Finds

Barn Finds

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

Categories:

Auto Paint

Enjoy the Monterey Peninsula With a Road Trip

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

Categories:

Events

The Micro Bus is Coming Back…

The Micro Bus is Coming Back…

In his 1967 song “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree,” Arlo Guthrie mentioned what is probably the quintessential hippy vehicle. To help out restaurant owner Alice, Arlo and his friend decided to take out the restaurant’s garbage:   We took the half a ton of garbage, Put it in the back of a red VW Microbus took shovels and rakes and implements of destruction and headed On toward the city dump   Those iconic 60s buses command high prices today and are in high demand. Despite the fact that they’re slow and not particularly comfortable, they have attained cult status.   And Volkswagen has noticed. During last year’s Car Week the manufacturer unveiled a prototype for an all-new electric version it calls the ID Buzz.     The new design, slated to hit the market in 2022, bears a resemblance to its ancestor--but with a twist. It kind of looks as if it could be a car driven by Marty McFly in “Back to the Future.&rdquo ... read more

Categories:

Auto Body

Winter Car Care Tips

Thankfully, on the central California coast, we enjoy a temperate climate. While we do experience some heavy wind and rain events that cause localized trauma--like the devastating  Big Sur storms of 2017 that led to that area being effectively isolated for months to the rains and resulting mudslides in the Santa Barbara area last month--we don’t get the kind of deep freeze that regularly occurs in the midwest and east coast of the US. But you still need to winterize your vehicles. Wet, slippery roads combined with colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours mean we you keep our cars in tip-top shape. And it’s even more vital if you’re planning a trip to the mountains for some fun in the snow. Here are some tips on how to make sure you don’t get stranded in a storm:   Make sure your vehicle is up to date on the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil, coolant, brake, transmission, windshield wiper and steering fluids C ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

How to Make Long Drives More Comfortable

How to Make Long Drives More Comfortable

  Some drivers get antsy during long drives. Boredom and low energy play a big role in this. Luckily there are ways to keep us comfortable when we’re on the road for miles.   1. Cruise control   When your speed is consistent you save money on fuel. Fewer stops to the gas station might give you some peace of mind. However, don’t forget to stop every few hours to stretch your legs.   2. Keep healthy snacks in the car   Staying away from sugar and fast food will keep your energy up and help you from avoiding a  stomach ache. Protein and fiber will give you a steady flow of energy. Nuts, berries, bananas, apples, carrots, and yogurt are smart choices.   3. Drink plenty of water   A poor mood and fatigue can be the result of dehydration. Have a travel bottle with you and fill it up every time you stop at a rest area.   4. Get a good night’s sleep.   Science has proven that driving tired is almost as danger ... read more

Categories:

Car Repair

Holiday Traffic. Should You Go or Should You Stay?

Holiday Traffic. Should You Go or Should You Stay?

  Christmas is just around the corner and we want to be sure you arrive safely wherever you’re headed. Make sure your vehicle is safe for holiday travel at Robert”s Collision and Repair in Monterey. But how do you know when to avoid the traffic? Good news! AAA and Waze, the consumer-controlled traffic app offer this holiday traffic forecast.   According to AAA, in 2017, more than 100 million Americans will travel between December 23 and January 3. That’s the largest number of cars on the road ever predicted during this holiday.   According to Waze, this year, the worst day to travel will be Wednesday, Dec. 23 with vehicles starting to crawl along the highways as early as 11 a.m. You may as well stay at work and earn points with your boss, especially as the roads are expected to be tied up until at least 6 p.m.   Christmas Eve will be even worse starting at noon and extending all the way through Thursday evening. The return trip also offers ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?

What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?

A lit up check engine light could mean a lot of things. Perhaps it’s a small issue or it could indicate the problem is more serious. If your car is not surging smoke, chances are that you are not in immediate danger. The check engine light is there to keep car drivers aware of engine irregularities and sensory malfunctions. The vehicle’s onboard computer, or engine control unit (ECU), can adjust to make sure that the engine is running efficiently. What do you do when the sensor is getting a bad reading and that “pesky” check engine light turns on?   It’s best to have a professional auto mechanic take a look at your vehicle when your check engine light comes on. They’ll use a code reader that plugs into the vehicle and gives a report. In some cases, there may be an easy solution and you can remedy the problem yourself. For example, not tightening your car’s gas cap all the was could result with a flashing check engine light. If you have ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

The Importance of Preventative Maintenance

The Importance of Preventative Maintenance

No matter what type of car you own, the significance of preventative maintenance is absolutely essential. The team at Robert’s Collision & Repair feels that all responsible car owners need to be very mindful of preventive maintenance. Our highly skilled auto mechanics are happy to inspect your vehicle to see if any repairs should be done to prevent malfunctions, dangerous situations on the road, and hefty costs down the line.   Safety Preventative maintenance lets drivers have some peace of mind because it’s comforting to know that your automobile is in good working order. For example, if your brakes are inspected regularly, you’ll know that they are operating within safe operating limits. If you wait until something goes wrong, you’re putting yourself, your passengers, and other drivers on the road at risk.   Extend lifespan of car Preventative maintenance is one of the easiest things you can do to prolong the life of your vehicle. When you ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

Tags:

Marina , Monterey , Pacific Grove , Pebble Beach , Repair , Robert's , Robert's Auto Repair , Seaside , car maintenance , precision , restore , Coolant Service , Del Rey Oaks , fluids , healthy engine , Radiator repair , Sand City , feeling good , high-tech , maintenance , Carmel Valley , automobile , education , knowledge , Salinas , truck , green-certified , mechanic , cars , Carmel , family , Robert , customer service , services , older vehicles , repair & process , car repair , brakes , free inspection , safety , blog , Farmer's , Geico , Insurance , Triple A , children , 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 , windshield wipers , wiper blades , Antifreeze , crossover , family car , SUV , van , Brakes and Rotors , Corral de Tierra , Rotor Service , Wheel Service , Castroville , Prunedale , Watsonville , Acura , North Monterey County , BMW , 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 , Saturn Repair , Jaguar Repair , Kia repair , Mazda repair , Laguna Seca , oil changes , Major service , minor service , A/C service , Mileage Service , Defense Language Institute , DLI , Naval Postgraduate School , NPS , Drive Belts , Hoses , Complete Tune-Ups , Filter Replacement , Lube , Oil , Air & Fuel Filters , Chualar , Gonzales , Greenfield , King City , Soledad , South Monterey County

November 2017 Special: 10% Off Transmission Service

10% Off Transmission Service. Offer valid through November 30, 2017. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other specials and offers.   For many car owners, transmissions are one of the most overlooked and often forgotten components of a vehicle. Why? We’ve been trained to change your 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 prob ... read more

Categories:

Auto Maintenance

How To Keep Your Cool In Monterey's September Weather

As you know, the Monterey Peninsula is known for its cool weather. Our cool weather is what attracts people from all over so they can give their sweat glands a rest. But September is our warmest month, and when it’s Autumn everywhere else, it’s like Summer here. That’s why we’ve come up with a few reminders about how to keep cool in your car while you’re commuting around Monterey, Seaside, Pacific Grove, Carmel, Marina, Salinas, Big Sur, and Moss Landing.   Have your air conditioning system checked. If your car’s A/C unit is blowing hot, or takes a while to cool down, come into Robert’s Collision & Repair for an inspection. Your air conditioning system may need more refrigerant, or it may have some leaks that need repair, but we won’t know for sure until we’ve inspected it. Don’t leave the kids or the dogs in the car. All too often, we take our cooler weather for granted and allow the dogs and kids to stay in the c ... read more

Categories:

Events

What Does It Mean to be ASE-Certified?

At Robert’s Collisions & Repair, we’re proud to be ASE Certified. There are a lot of certifications and organizations out there in the automotive industry, serving to raise auto care across the nation up to a higher standard. ASE, or the National Institute for Automotive Excellence, is one of them. ASE has been up and running since 1972 as an independent, non-profit organization that certifies individual technicians and service advisors, not the auto shop as a whole. They grant certification based on tests, skill level, and the ethics and community involvement of each worker on a case by case basis. This means that, in order to be considered an ASE Certified location, you must have multiple mechanics and supervisors on site who are ASE Certified.   This system is very helpful across the board. For the technicians, it’s a way for them to show evidence of their skill and professionalism to potential employers. For shop managers, it can help them promote the ... read more

Categories:

Car Repair

Road Trip Ideas for Scuba Divers

Road Trip Ideas for Scuba Divers

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

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

New Year Resolutions for You and Your Car

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

Categories:

Events

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

Popular Summertime Songs For Your Next Road Trip

Popular Summertime Songs For Your Next Road Trip

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

Tags:

Marina , Monterey , Pacific Grove , Pebble Beach , Repair , Robert's Auto Repair , Seaside , auto body shop , alignment , car maintenance , tire service center , tires , Coolant Service , Del Rey Oaks , fluids , healthy engine , hydration , overheating , Radiator repair , Sand City , feeling good , high-tech , maintenance , Carmel Valley , auto body , automobile , Salinas , Carmel , Summer Accidents , car shows , events , August , Laguna Seca Raceway , Summertime , summer , brakes , safety , blog , car repair monterey , auto repair monterey , Auto repair Pacific Grove , Auto repair Seaside , Big Sur , Car repair Pacific Grove , Car repair Seaside , Corral de Tierra , Castroville , Prunedale , Watsonville , North Monterey County , Moss Landing , Laguna Seca , A/C service , Defense Language Institute , DLI , Naval Postgraduate School , Corral de Teirra , Lube , Oil , Chualar , Gonzales , Greenfield , King City , Soledad , South Monterey County , Saving money during summer road trips , travel , all major vehicles , auto service , auto maintenance , Carmel Highlands , tire changer , Tire balancing machine , Toro Park , 234 Ramona Avenue , Save gas this summer , vehicle maintenance , Car Week , August Car Events , Indian Summer , Montero , Monterra , pet , Road trip games , clean car , Bluetooth devices , California , collision , MINI , road trip car , Robert's Collision & Repair , CSUMB , better gas mileage , road trips , USA , auto show , Hot August Nights , Enterprise , rental car , good for your car , Labor Day , students , Aptos , Capitola , La Selva Beach , Santa Cruz , Soquel , Monterey Bay , Spreckels , Live Oak , auto mechanic , Rio Del Mar , tire pressure , headlights , SUVs , tail lights , trucks , vans , convertible , emergency kit , Freedom , minivan , Canyon Del Rey , air filters , Monterey County , River Road , Wine tasting , Hyatt Regency , breakdowns , Pasadera , car , Tehama , Auto Show Season , summer heat , Aromas , Favorite songs about cars , Cannery Row , romantic weekend , Santa Lucia Highlands , wineries , safe driving , drivers , car safety

July Specials: 10% Off Coolant Flush & $100 Off Auto Body Repairs Over $700

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

How To Avoid Summertime Overheating

Summer is unfolding. Temperatures are rising across the country. Many people are traveling to the Monterey Peninsula to enjoy our cool breezes. Regardless if you live here during “June Gloom”, or travel to hotter places like Fresno, Sacramento, Phoenix, or Las Vegas, we must stay vigilant toward servicing our vehicles during the summer months.   If your vehicle is prone to overheating, Robert’s Collision & Repair wants to make sure a breakdown doesn’t happen to you and your family. Here are a few ways our auto technicians help your vehicle avoid summertime overheating:   Ensure your vehicle has enough coolant fluid: This fluid flows through the engine and keeps everything cool as a cucumber. Without the right amount of coolant fluid, your vehicle would be prone to overheating. Check the coolant fan: The coolant fan does exactly what its name entails. It keeps your engine cool. Our technicians check out your vehicle’s coolant fan and ma ... 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

Top Automobile Trends

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

Top Must-Have Automotive Apps

There is an app for literally anything your heart desires. All it takes is a press of your button, and within minutes, your life is made marginally easier. This does not end with cars. In fact, we have compiled a list of the seven most helpful and innovative automotive apps out there:   GasBuddy: Tired of driving around town searching for inexpensive gas? This will show you the ten closest and cheapest gas stations. This app would be great for road trips. My Max Speed 2.0: Worried about your kid out on the road by herself? This app will ease your worries. Designed to monitor your car’s location and speed, this app is an excellent way to keep your children safe and out of harm's way. Drive Safe.Ly: Have you ever been driving, heard an alert, and then had resist reaching for your phone to check that important message? This app solves that problem beautifully. From Twitter updates to email, Drive Safe.Ly reads the message to you, and you will not have to press even a ... read more

Fluids and Staying Hydrated

All the health experts agree...make sure you drink 8 glasses of water each day to stay healthy. When you have enough fluids in your body, toxins get flushed out, your wrinkles diminish, and you feel better. Well, the same can be said about your car. Obviously, your vehicle doesn't drink 8 glasses of water each day, but think about all the fluids your car requires to run "healthy". There's gasoline to make it go, there's water to cool it down, there's oil to keep it lubricated, and so on. Periodically, these fluids need to be flushed and replace in order to get rid of the "gunk". Changing the fluids in your radiator is especially important. Most of us are aware that radiator coolant keeps your engine from overheating and corroding, but did you know that the same fluid can corrode your engine if you leave it in too long? Over a significant period of time, the static charge of the engine makes the fluid acidic and it eats up the aluminum pipes, making your engine vulnerable to major ... read more

Categories:

Uncategorized
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.