Monterey Collision & Auto Repair

By SecondSide Progressive Insurance: A Partner You Can Trust  When the unexpected happens, and you need your car repaired, you want to ensure you're getting the best service possible. That's why CARSTAR Robert's Collision, we pride ourselves on our long-standing partnership with Progressive Insurance. Let's take a closer look at why we trust Progressive insurance for our collision repair customers.  Quality Service  The cornerstone of any business relationship is trust. Whether it's help with filing a claim or navigating the often confusing world of auto insurance coverage, Progressive stands out as a company that puts its customers first. With 24/7 customer support and knowledgeable representatives who are always available to help answer questions, customers can rest assured that Progressive will take care of their needs in a timely manner.  Value for Your Money  Progressive Insurance offers value for your money when it comes to auto ... read more

By Paolese The 5 Must-Have Qualities For Any Collision Insurance Provider After being involved in an auto accident, the last thing you want to worry about is the financial burden of repairing your vehicle. Fortunately, most car owners have collision insurance, which can help cover the cost of repairs.   But what should you look for when choosing a collision insurance provider? Read on as we discuss five key points you should consider when selecting a collision insurance provider.  1. Reputation Before signing up with any insurance provider, be sure to do your research. Check online reviews from current and former customers and see what other people are saying about the company's customer service, claims process, and overall satisfaction. If you are still unsure about a particular provider, it may be wise to speak directly with someone at their office so that you can ask questions and get more details about their services.  2. Coverage  It's important ... read more

By JJ Gouin Tire Tread & Collision Avoidance: What You Need to Know  Driving is a daily activity for most of us, but one that can be dangerous if we don't take proper precautions. One of the most common causes of collisions is a lack of maintenance on our vehicles, particularly regarding tire tread.   Many people don't realize that servicing your tires can actually help you avoid a collision. Keep reading to learn more about why this is so important and how servicing your tires can keep you safe on the road! What Is Tire Tread?  Your tire's tread is the patterned part of the tire that contacts the ground when driving. It is designed to provide traction between the surface of the road and the tire by dispersing water and increasing friction. Tire tread helps to improve braking, turning, and overall control performance on both wet and dry surfaces.   Tire tread is an important part of driving safety because it provides traction between your tir ... read more

By Thinglass Five things you might want to know about collision repair If you've been in a car accident, you know that the aftermath can be stressful and overwhelming. Between dealing with insurance and trying to get your car repaired, it's easy to feel like you have a lot on your plate. But have you ever stopped to think about what actually goes on at a collision repair center?   Whether you're looking to get your car repaired or just want to know more about the process, here are five things you might not know about collision repair: The repair process starts with an evaluation Before your collision repair center can make any repairs, they must conduct a thorough evaluation of the damage to your vehicle. This typically involves a visual inspection as well as computerized measurements using equipment such as laser scanners or frame alignment machines. The information gathered during this evaluation helps technicians determine the extent of the damage and create a ... read more

By Adobe Photo Stock CARSTAR Robert's Collision - GEICO Insurance Partnership We have been working with GEICO for years now, and in that time, we have come to know them as a company that shares our commitment to customer service and satisfaction.   There are many reasons why you should consider GEICO insurance for your vehicle's collision coverage, but today we wanted to focus on three of the main reasons: their competitive pricing, their 24/7 customer service, and their nationwide network of certified repair shops. Competitive Pricing GEICO is well-known for its competitive pricing, and they offer a variety of discounts that can save you even more money. For example, they offer a military discount, a safe driver discount, and a multi-policy discount. They also have a variety of payment options, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. 24/7 Customer Service G ... read more

By Adobe Photo Stock 5 Common Causes Of Collisions (And How You Can Stay Clear Of Them) Car collisions are never a fun experience, even minor ones. Not only is it stressful and often scary, but it can also be expensive to repair the damages. The good news is that there are some things you can do to help avoid collisions altogether. Keep reading to learn about the five most common causes of collisions and how you can avoid them. 1. Distracted Driving Distracted driving is one of the most common (and preventable) causes of collisions. Anything that takes your attention away from the road, even for just a few seconds, can be dangerous.   So, what counts as distracted driving? Some of the most common examples of distracted driving are:  Talking or texting on your phone  Fiddling with the radio  Eating or drinking  Talking to passengers  Daydreaming  Looking at something outside of the car To avoid distracted driving, put away ... read more

By Adobe Photo Stock   Top 3 Reasons Why You Should Repair Your Collision-Damaged Vehicle If you've been in a car accident, you may wonder whether it's worth repairing your vehicle or if you should just cut your losses and get a new one. It's stressful, we know, but there is a multitude of factors why repairing your vehicle might be the best option.   Here are the top three reasons why you should opt to repair your collision-damaged vehicle! 1. Maintaining the Safety of Your Vehicle Your safety is always the number one priority, which is why you should repair any damage to critical safety components of your vehicle immediately. Even if the damage doesn't seem severe, it could have long-lasting effects on the safety of your vehicle.  2. Preventing Further Damage If you don't repair collision damage as soon as possible, it will only get worse over time. Problems like rust and corrosion find their way into scratches, dents, and cracks, and befor ... read more

By Adobe Photo Stock You've Been In A Vehicle Collision, Now Here's What To Do No one ever expects to be in a collision, but unfortunately, accidents happen. If you've been in a collision, there are a few things you need to do to ensure you take care of yourself and your vehicle.  1. Get yourself to a safe place.  If you can, move your car to the side of the road or to a nearby parking lot. If your car is not driveable, turn on your hazard lights and wait for help to arrive. Getting yourself out of harm's way before anything else is important. 2. Check for injuries.  Once you're in a safe place, take a moment to check yourself for injuries. If you're injured, or if you think you may be injured, it's important to seek medical attention right away. Even if you don't think you're injured, it's always best to err on the side of caution and get checked out by a doctor. Whiplash is a common injury following a collision, and sometim ... read more

The Benefits of Working with Farmer's Insurance for Collision Repairs If you've been in a car accident, the last thing you want to deal with is insurance paperwork. Thankfully, if you have Farmer's Insurance, they help take care of the paperwork for you.   Here are just a few benefits of working with Farmer's Insurance for your collision repairs and why we want to highlight them as our valued partner of the month. Quality Repairs When you work with Farmer's Insurance for your collision repairs, you can rest assured knowing that you'll receive high-quality repairs. Farmer's Insurance works with some of the best shops in the business to make sure your car is repaired to the highest standard. Selecting preferred repair vendors, like CARSTAR Robert's Collision. Convenient Payment Options Farmer's Insurance understands that paying for r ... read more

By Adobe Photo Stock Follow These Steps After Any Vehicle Accident Getting in a car accident is never a pleasant experience. But even if the accident wasn't your fault, there are still some things you need to do to protect yourself and your interests. Follow these five steps after any car accident, and you'll be in good shape. 1. Check for Injuries The first thing you need to do after any car accident is to check for injuries. If you or anyone else involved in the accident is injured, call 911 immediately. Don't try to move an injured person unless necessary, as this could worsen their injuries. 2. Move to a Safe Location Once you're sure everyone is okay, the next step is to move your vehicle (if possible) to a safe location away from traffic. If your car is not driveable, turn on your hazard lights and wait for help to arrive. 3. Call the Police  Even if the accident appears to be minor, it's still a good idea to call the police so they can document w ... read more

By Adobe Photo Stock The Peace of Mind a Direct Repair Vendor Brings Have you ever wondered what goes into repairing your car after an accident? Many people are unaware of the process and assume their insurance company will take care of everything. However, that is not always the case.   Depending on your insurance company, they may refer you to a specific auto body or collision repair shop for repairs; or give you a list of pre-approved shops to choose from. But what does it mean to be pre-approved, and how does that benefit you? What Does "Direct Repair Vendor" Mean? The term "direct repair vendor" (DRV) refers to an auto body shop that an insurance company has approved to provide repairs for their policyholders. DRVs are held to a higher standard than other auto body shops because they are vetted and approved by the insurance company.   This means that they must meet certain criteria to be considered a DRV, such as being up-to-date on the latest ... read more

By Adobe Photo Stock Why Should You Choose A Collision Repair Shop Over A Standard Auto Repair Center? When your car is involved in a collision, it can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. You may not know where to take your car to get it repaired or who you can trust to do a good job. That's why we've put together this list of 3 benefits of getting your car repaired at a collision repair shop. 1. They use the latest tools and techniques.  Not every auto repair shop equips itself with the latest and greatest in collision repair technology. From special buffing tools to complex compounds, a high-quality collision repair shop will have the tools to fit the task at hand; and then some. 2. They have a highly trained and experienced team.  Collision repair requires a totally different skill set than typical auto repair. Technicians train in skills specific to vehicle damage, paint, coats, and more. From paint-less dent removal to advanced interior detailing te ... read more

By Adobe Photo Stock Why You Shouldn't Ignore a Dent in Your Car We've all been there. We're driving along and suddenly hear a loud 'thump!' We pull over to investigate and find a large dent in our car. Our first impulse is to ignore it.   After all, it's just a cosmetic issue, right? Wrong! While it may not seem like a big deal, that dent can actually cause some serious problems down the road if you don't take care of it immediately.  Structural Damage One of the most important functions of your car's exterior is to provide structural support. In a minor fender bender, that dent can cause your car's frame to warp. That might not seem like a big deal, but a warped frame can lead to all sorts of problems, including alignment issues and a decrease in the overall integrity of your car. Not to mention, it'll make your car look like junk! Decreased Resale Value Even if you're not planning on selling your car any time soon, it ... read more

By Tada Images Another Year In Partnership With USAA Insurance We are excited to highlight our partnership with USAA Insurance! As a collision repair customer, this is great news for you because it means that you will now have an insurance provider that caters specifically to the needs of the military community and beyond.    USAA is a leading insurance provider for the military community and their families. They offer a wide range of insurance products, including auto, property, and life insurance. They are also known for their excellent customer service. In fact, USAA was rated as one of the best insurance companies in the country for customer satisfaction.  What Our Partnership With USAA Means for You As a collision repair customer, this partnership provides you with a number of benefits: USAA offers very competitive rates on its auto insurance products. This is important because it can help you save mo ... read more

By Checubus Differences Between Interior and Exterior Auto Detailing Regarding auto detailing, most people think only of the exterior. But there's more to it than just washing and waxing the paint. Interior detailing is just as important, if not more so. Here are some of the key differences between interior and exterior auto detailing.   The main difference between interior and exterior auto detailing is obvious—one deals with the vehicle's inside, while the other focuses on the outside. But there are other important distinctions to keep in mind as well. Exterior Auto Detailing Exterior detailing involves more than just washing and waxing the car. It also includes polishing, special finish treatment, headlight restoration, dent removal, and so much more. In short, anything that has to do with the visible parts of the car's exterior is fair game. Interior Auto Detailing On the other hand, interior detailing takes care of all the parts of the car's inte ... read more

By Methaphum Avoiding Winter Weather Woes Winter weather can be tough on your car. From the cold to the rain and slick road conditions, many situations could lead to an accident. But with a little bit of planning and preparation, you can avoid winter weather woes and keep your car running smoothly all season long. Plan Ahead One of the best ways to avoid winter weather problems is to plan ahead. Before the cold weather hits, take your car in for a tune-up. This will ensure that all of your fluids are topped off and that your battery is in good working order. You should also have your tires checked and rotated if necessary. Winter weather can be tough on tires, so it's important to ensure they're in good condition before the first rains.   If you live in an area that frequently gets snow or ice, consider investing in winter tires. Winter tires are designed to provide better traction and grip in cold weather conditions. They can help you avoid slipping and sliding on i ... read more

By Adobe Photo Stock 6 Tips For Our New Drivers If you're a new driver, congratulations! You're about to embark on a great adventure. But before you hit the open road, you should know a few things about keeping your car running smoothly. Here are seven tips for new drivers that will help you keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. 1. Get to know your car's owner's manual This may seem like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people don't bother to read their car's manual. Your car's manual contains important information about your vehicle, so take the time to read it from cover to cover. Not only will this help you be more familiar with your car, but it will also help you troubleshoot any problems that may arise. 2. Get regular oil changes One of the most important things you can do for your car is to get regular oil changes. Depending on your vehicle type, your car's manufacturer will recommend a specific interval for oil changes. But as ... read more

By Puwait Inyavileart   CARSTAR Robert's Collision & Esurance: Partnering For You We are delighted to highlight our partnership with Esurance and tell you a little about what makes them so great and what a direct repair shop relationship can do for you. Navigating difficult insurance-related issues is difficult enough without the added pain of finding a shop or insurance company that works well together; our partnership with Esurance simplifies that process and brings peace-of-mind to you and your vehicle.   Why Should You Consider Esurance? Esurance has been providing quality auto insurance coverage to consumers for many years. With a deep understanding of the automation of processes and the importance of using modern technologies to save customers time, Esurance offers affordable rates, reliable customer support, and comprehensive coverage options.   Whether you need basic liability protection or ... read more

By Denis R.   Road Rage Cures: How to Stay Safe and Calm During the Holiday Season It's the most wonderful time of the year but also the most hectic. With shopping, parties, and travel, the holidays can be a stressful time for everyone. That stress can manifest itself in some not-so-wonderful ways, like road rage.   According to a study by AAA, 66 percent of respondents reported having driven when angry or aggressive in the past year. Don't let holiday stress turn you into a Scrooge behind the wheel. Check out these road rage cures to help you stay safe and calm on the road this holiday season.   Plan Ahead to Avoid Road Rage One of the best ways to avoid road rage is to plan ahead. If you know you're going to be driving in heavy holiday traffic, leave earlier than you need to so you don't feel rushed. Rushing leads to stress, which can quickly turn into road rage. If possible, avoid peak travel times altogether. For example, if you're driving ... read more

By Weyo   Holiday Traffic Is Here The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and fun. But all that traffic on the roads means it's also a time when accidents happen. In fact, statistics show that more accidents happen during the winter months than at any other time of year. So what can you do to stay safe on the road this holiday season?   4 Tips To Keep You Safe On The Road This Holiday Season  Service Your Vehicle - Make sure your car is in good working condition before you hit the road. This means getting an oil change, checking your tires, and ensuring all your lights are working properly. Don't wait until the last minute to get your car serviced—if you do, you may end up stranded on the side of the road. Plan Your Route - Before you start driving, take some time to map out your route. This way, you'll know exactly where you're going, and you won't have to make any sudden turns or lane changes. Planning your route will also hel ... read more

By NopponPAT   As the temperatures start to dip and the days get shorter, it's important to winterize your vehicle. A few simple steps will help ensure that your car is ready to face the cold seaside weather head-on, keeping you safe and comfortable all season long.    Winter Weather Can Be Hard On Your Vehicle The cold weather, road salt, and other winter hazards can take a toll on your vehicle's exterior. But you can take some easy steps to protect your car or truck from winter damage. In this blog post, we'll give you tips on keeping your vehicle looking good all winter long.   Here are a few tips on how to winterize your vehicle Inspect your tires. This is one of the most important things you can do to prepare your car for winter. Check the tread depth and tire pressure, and if necessary, invest in a set of all-weather tires. They may cost more upfront, but they'll be worth it when you find yourself driving on icy roads.  Wash and w ... read more

By Andrey   CARSTAR Robert's Collision & Sentry Insurance Working with an insurance company you can rely on that makes your collision repair experience easier is everything. Sentry Insurance is a beloved partner with CARSTAR Robert's Collision, bringing ease of use and compassion to the collision repair industry.   The Sentry Insurance Difference Sentry Insurance has provided quality collision repair services for over 25 years. Sentry is a nationally recognized leader in the industry, and our team of highly skilled technicians is proud to call them a partner.   Sentry's 24/7 claims hotline means you can report your claim anytime, day or night. And their online claims center allows you to track the status of your claim from start to finish. Sentry offers rental car programs, so you can get back on the road while we repair your vehicle. Sentry is here to make your life easier when it comes t ... read more

By anoushkatoronto Spooky Season Is Here That's right, everybody, our favorite time of the year is here!   It's spooky season, and everyone's rushing to find the best costume for the party. Well, don't leave your vehicle out of the fun! There's still time to grab an awesome Halloween costume for your favorite car and show up to the party in style.   Halloween Costumes For Your Vehicle You might not know this, but there are tons of options to adorn your vehicle with Halloween spirit. Maybe you design a whole theme around the family costumes and include the family care? The possibilities are endless!   Here are three Halloween costume ideas for your vehicle ... read more

By globalmoments   Calming Our Inner Demons (Avoiding road rage) Road rage is a common occurrence on the roads today. It can be dangerous and cause accidents. Typically, it all comes down to ego. Those little inner demons who want us to "save face" or "have the last word." We know there is a better way to keep yourself and your family safe on the road. So how can you avoid road rage and stay calm while driving?    5 Tips To Help You Avoid Road Rage Tips to Avoid Road Rage:  Don't take things personally. If someone cuts you off, they may not be doing it intentionally. Assume that they're just having a bad day, and brush it off your shoulder. Avoid making assumptions. If someone is driving slowly, they may have an ill passenger or be new to the area. It's impossible to know another person's circumstances and stresse ... read more

By JJ Gouin   Tire Tread & Fender Benders One of the most common causes of collisions is poor tire tread. When your tires don't have enough tire tread, they can't grip the road as well, which can lead to accidents. Luckily, there are ways to avoid this. By regularly checking your tire tread and keeping an eye out for warning signs, you can help keep yourself and your loved ones safe on the road.  How to Check Your Tire Tread It's important to check your tire tread regularly, especially if you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow.   There are a few different ways to do this:  Warning Signs that You Need New Tires  In addition to regularly checking your tire tread, it's essential to be on the lookout for signs that you need new tires.   If you notice any of the following, it's time for new tires:  Cracks or c ... read more

By chartphoto   Dents, Dings, Damage, & Disaster Whether you just bought a new car or have been driving the same one for years, you want it to look its best! Unfortunately, dents, dings, and scratches are an unavoidable reality of car ownership. But don't despair!   This blog post will tell you about some of the most common causes of exterior car damage and what you can do to avoid them. Armed with this knowledge, you can keep your car looking great for years to come. Common Causes Of Exterior Vehicle Damage One of the most common causes of dents and dings is other drivers. Whether it's someone opening their door into your parked car or a shopping cart ramming into your bumper in a strong wind, there's not much you can do to prevent this type of damage altogether.   However, you can minimize the risk by: Parking in well-lit areas away from ... read more

Photo by Pixabay   Regular maintenance can help prevent a collision If you're like most car owners, you probably don't think about your vehicle's maintenance until something goes wrong. And unfortunately, by that point, it can be too late - the damage has already been done, and you're left with a hefty collision repair bill.   But if you take a little time to plan, you can avoid these costly surprises and keep your car running smoothly for years to come. Here are a few simple tips to get you started.   What is Preventative maintenance? Preventive maintenance is any action performed on a vehicle to avoid a future repair. This includes routine oil changes, tire rotations, and brakes checks. By keeping up with these simple tasks, you can help to prevent more serious and costly problems down the road, like a collision. In addition to preventive maintenance, there are other steps you can take to avoid expensive repairs. For example, be sure to drive ca ... read more

Photo by Luis Villasmil on Unsplash   21st Century Insurance is a longtime partner of CARSTAR Robert's Collision We're excited to highlight our partnership with 21st Century Insurance! Our partnership makes things easier for our customers by giving you a turnkey, one-stop-shop experience with insurance navigation and processing.   Collisions are traumatic, and they are made worse when you have to navigate insurance coverage on your own. We make that process easier through our partnerships with trusted companies like 21st Century Insurance! This means that if you're in an accident and your vehicle needs repairs, you can bring it to us, and we'll take ... read more

Photo by Sigmund on Unsplash   Don't Overlook Check Engine Lights! If you're like most people, you probably don't think much of your check engine light. After all, it's just a little light that comes on occasionally - no big deal, right? Wrong. Your check engine light could be a sign of a serious problem with your car, and if you ignore it, you could end up stranded, or worse.   What should I do if my check engine light comes on? So, what exactly is your check engine light trying to tell you? Well, it could be a number of things. It could be something as simple as a loose gas cap or something more serious, like a faulty oxygen sensor. There are many potential causes, but the only way to know for sure is to h ... read more

Photo by Patti Black on Unsplash   Back To School, We Go! Summer is winding down, meaning it's time to get back into the swing of things with school. If you have a new driver in the family, now is a great time to get their car ready for the back-to-school season.   For many new drivers, the back-to-school season can be a nerve-wracking time. There are so many things to remember: new classes, meeting new people, and of course - driving in traffic for the first time.   If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't worry! We're here to help. In this blog post, we'll discuss some tips that will help you get ready for the back-to-school season. Follow these tips, and you'll navigate the roads like a pro i ... read more

Photo by Orkun Azap on Unsplash   6 Tips For Our New Drivers Congratulations on getting your driver's license! This is a huge accomplishment, and it's time to celebrate. But before you hit the open road, there are a few things you need to do to prepare for driving.   It's tough to let the baby take its first flight, but alas, here we are! They have to learn how to fly on their own sooner or later. Just make sure they cover some of the basics before that first jump!   Get yourself ready for the road! Here are our six tips for new drivers: Get plenty of practice driving in different conditions - practice in various weather conditions and on different types of roads. This will help you become a better dri ... read more

Photo by Orkun Azap on Unsplash   A Road Trip Checklist To Save The Day The sun is out, the weather is warm, and road trip season is looking better by the day! A road trip can be a lot of fun, but it can also be stressful if you're not prepared. Let's help each other avoid any last-minute surprises and list a few things you'll want to consider!   No one wants to spend their road trip stressed out and worried about everything that could go wrong. By being prepared, you can avoid most of the potential problems and focus on having fun! Here are a few tips to help get you started:   Make a Road Trip Checklist! 1. Make a checklist: This is probably the most important step! A road trip checklist will help you make ... read more

Photo by Josh Applegate on Unsplash Tailgate Treats For Independence Day Happy Independence Day, Monterey! Is everybody ready for the bright lights, smells, and family fun? We know we are. But in that spirit, you want to wow your guests this year; you want them to leave saying, “man, the food was amazing this year!” Here are some awesome recipes for tonight’s festivities and the rest of the tailgate season! Incredible Independence Day Hits Jalapeno Poppers Nothing says a warm summer afternoon chillin’ by the tailgate like some spicy jalapeno poppers! Let’s do a ham and cheese stuffing and celebrate the holiday with a bang! Grab canned whole jalapenos (the vinegar brine goes great with the other fl ... read more

Sunburnt paint. We've all seen it. That beautiful brightly colored car paint fades and chips away when exposed to the elements for too long. Most people would say that this is a process everybody goes through sooner or later. However, it should not be like that! If we just followed a couple of simple steps, we could prevent ourselves from the headaches of repairing the car paint of a sun-damaged car. Here's what to do. Park under trees.  In most cases, wherever you go, there's usually a tree or two by the parking lot. The trees help shade your car, which keeps your car cooler. But watch out for tree sap getting on your paint job!  But what if there are no trees?  Whenever possible, seek out covered parking lots or garages that block out the sun's UV rays. These covered parking places may not be offered for free. However, most stores allow you to park for free for 2 hours. This is more than enough time to conduct your business and keep your car fresh ... read more

Photo by Foundry Co from Pixabay   California is arguably one of the most iconic states. Besides incredible opportunities to do business and a high standard of living, California is also known for its tourist-friendly cities and places.    In this article, we’ll reveal a couple of the best travel destinations if you want to see the beauty of our “Golden State”!   Enjoy the ride, and drive safely!   San Francisco Besides the well-known Silicon Valley area and Alcatraz Island, San Francisco is a cultural paradise. It houses the ... read more

Photo by Victor He on Unsplash Staying physically active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic. For many people, especially during the summer, physical activity is usually something they’d be doing outside at parks, beaches, campgrounds, and a host of other summer destinations. Keep reading for places to go and ways to stay active, even while shelter-in-place restrictions are in place! Visit parks that are close to home! Places you can and should visit will ideally be close by and won’t require much traveling. Visit those parks that are closest to you and check with the park or recreation area well in advance to learn how to prepare safely. Find out if there are bathroom facilities and other services that are still open and available to the public. Beaches and othe ... read more

Photo by Maxwell Ridgeway on Unsplash Depending on where you live and what you do for a living, you might find that you spend an awful lot of time in your car on your way to and from work, drives to school, and every other little errand you might have. Unfortunately, commuting for more than 20 minutes a day can cause chronic stress. That's why the CARSTAR Robert's Collision and Repair team wants to help you de-stress and decompress while you drive with this list of tips and tricks to try! Healthy Habits While Driving: Most of us hop in the car first thing in the morning, with some toast or a bagel and coffee to try and beat the morning traffic. Try getting up a little earlier so your morning routine is calm, and you have plenty of time to make a healthy breakfast. You might even want to pack some snacks for the road, or blend up a sm ... read more

Photo by Luca Peng on Unsplash At CARSTAR Robert's Collision and Repair, we know that traveling with your beloved pets can be a constant struggle. To help you make the most of your driving time with your pets and keep your family's smaller extensions safe and happy, take a look at this list of tips and tricks to traveling with pets! Before any extended travel, you should always make sure your pets are healthy to do so. Take them to the veterinarian for a checkup, make sure all their vaccinations are up-to-date and copy those records with you. If you're planning on flying with an airline, these records are required. Making sure your pets stay healthy means you also need to bring along enough of their regular food, medication, and water for them to last the duration of the trip. Traveling for humans and pets is a little different depending on what kind of a ... read more

Photo by Frank Zhang on Unsplash Summer is in full swing, and unfortunately, big vacations might not be a possibility with continued shelter-in-place orders on the horizon. Luckily, there’s nothing like a family road trip to brighten everyone’s spirits and get out of the house. But because road trips involve extended time in the car, it can be tough to keep the kids occupied. Keep reading for some ideas to keep the kids entertained the next time you head out on a road trip! First up on the list is the ever-popular backseat-turned-movie theater. This tip is especially easy for those cars with built-in DVD players for the backseat. If you don’t have this nifty little feature, portable DVD players built for the vehicle ... read more

Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash With COVID-19 causing record numbers of disinfectant and cleaning supply sales (and shortages) around the world, it’s natural to worry about getting your car’s interior clean as a whistle. The team at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair knows your family’s safety is your number one priority. Still, we don’t want you to ruin your car in the process! Read on to find out the best practices to use when disinfecting your vehicle.  First, a little bit of information about how COVID-19 reacts to certain surfaces: the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is passed from person to person when they cough or sneeze. Tiny droplets are released, carrying the virus, which a healthy person ... read more

Photo by Jim Strasma on Unsplash   Before having kids, you may well have kept your car in fantastic condition. But kids can be rough on vehicles, especially when they’re young and don’t know any better. While they’ll (hopefully) understand how to keep the car cleaner as they get older, here’s a list of 5 tips and tricks from the team at CARSTAR Robert’s Collision & Repair to help kid-proof your car.   Organize, Organize, Organize There are a million gizmos and gadgets on the market to keep your car neat and tidy. Still, the biggest lifesaver when you have kids is knowing where everything is in your vehicle. But before you can figure out where everything is, you need somewhere to put ... read more

Photo by Tai's Captures on Unsplash With COVID-19 on everyone’s minds and shelter-in-place orders predicted to remain in place for the foreseeable future, masks and gloves have become commonplace. Though social distancing includes staying 6 feet apart and wearing surgical masks and gloves when around others, you may have noticed that some people are continuing to wear them while driving around. Is this necessary? Read on to find out! Since the COVID-19 crisis began, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have recommended that people follow all social distancing guidelines, which includes wearing a cloth face covering while out in public. These face coverings range from scarves to N95 respirators, but the main question is, do we n ... read more

This COVID-19 pandemic has really changed our “normal” way of life here on the Monterey Peninsula, hasn’t it? Since March, we have been encouraged to Shelter In Place, stay at home, only travel for essential business, and stay in our neighborhoods. Multiple events have been canceled, and one of them is our beloved Monterey Car Week. Monterey Car Week is an annual event that many of us -- especially die-hard auto enthusiasts -- look forward to every year. We have made it an annual tradition of sending our marketing gal out to the various open-to-the-public car shows to take photos and share them with our car buddies. We are truly going to miss celebrating Monterey Car Week, for it is an event that brings in approximately $50 Million in annual revenue for the hotels, restaurants, venues, and supporting industries on the Monterey Peninsula. With deep respect, we honor the intention of reducing the risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus, and we do encourage everyone to ... read more

Happy Memorial Day. Today is a day to thank and remember the military personnel who gave their lives so we could enjoy our freedoms. Before we go any further, we want to encourage you to take a moment and reflect on all of the people in your life who have sacrificed and served our country. If you have the opportunity to say a prayer and thank them, that would be a wonderful way to let them know they are not forgotten. Last week, we suggested 5 ways to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend while sheltering in place on the Monterey Peninsula. We’re curious. Did you go camping in your backyard? Did you get outside and go for a hike? Did you visit a park, get in the water, or have a virtual BBQ with your friends? Look, today is Memorial Day and it’s time for you to have some fun. Even if you don’t go anywhere, take some time for self-care and enjoy the day off. You deserve some down time. After the holiday, that’s when you can jump back into work and find ways to keep yo ... read more

  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

If you live in the Monterey area, you know what a fantastic place it is and how many beautiful things there are to see and do. This time of year is lovely and calls us out to explore. Are you ready to get your adventure on but you want to stay local? Are you tired of the same old, yet fantastic, attractions? Here are 5 of the more obscure, yet relaxed, places you may not have already checked out. Who doesn't love a good pastry or taste of chocolate? The artisans at Parker-Lusseau Pastries bring you the very best of France and the U.S. with decades of knowledge and experience crafting the finest pastries and chocolates. They aim to delight all of your senses and offer a luscious way to start your day or decorate your holiday table. You simply cannot miss with one of their creations, and, they are easy to find, now having three local eateries. Yum! Wowza! Talk about soul-filling beauty. Lonely yet lovely as the ... read more

Car week in Monterey takes place August 11 - 20, and it just so happens to be one of our favorite events here on the Monterey Peninsula! This year’s events will be scattered across Seaside, Monterey, Carmel, Pacific Grove, and Pebble Beach. Monterey Car Week has become one of the most popular car shows in the world. Considering the week-long festivities and famous cars and car designs, it’s no wonder why! The show starts off on Alvarado Street in downtown Monterey with a car show that has over 30 classic cars lining the roads. The events later on in the week at Pebble Beach are so revered that many sponsors and car makers use the stage to introduce new car models and even offer test drives! The sponsors are not only car companies, they are also sponsored by Rolex and a handful of yacht and private jet representatives. It’s certainly a high mark for the attendants to meet, but the great thing about Car Week is that as long as you have a love for cars and make some tim ... read more

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

  We’re pretty lucky that traveling to the beach from Monterey is close and easy to access, but many other summer destinations take a much longer drive. If you’re planning on taking a drive inland for camping or theme parks, or have family members to visit who live a couple of hours away, you’ll want to make the most of your fuel this summer. At Robert’s Collision and Repair, we just so happen to know a thing or two about cars and fuel economy. Here are a few tips from the experts at your favorite auto repair shop in Monterey about conserving fuel this summer:   Engine Oil Quality. Old engine oil can negatively impact your fuel economy and the overall, health of your engine. The first step is to make sure you follow your vehicle's specifications for regular oil changes to save you some money at the pump.   Extra Luggage. Unless you’ve got plans for that suitcase of extra clothes and the mounting pile of garbage accumulating behind ... read more

In Monterey, we are so lucky to have such beautiful beaches and deep waters right in our backyard. Whether you’re headed to any beach along the coast of Marina, Seaside, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel-By-the-Sea, and Big Sur, you know you’re in for a beautiful view. At Robert’s Collision and Repair, we’ve got a few things figured out about what to bring to those beach trips to make the most of them! Of course, there are the beach trip standards, which include: towels, beach blanket, cooler, umbrella, sunscreen, etc. Having lived near the ocean for so long, we’ve got the inside scoop on things you might not have thought of but will make all the difference for your beach trip. That’s why we’ve made this list of beach hacks and car accessories to keep in your car for the next time you head to the shore! Bike Rack If sun tanning and swimming isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy a bike ride along the beach. We recommend t ... read more