YOUR AUTO COLUMN Presented by Kevin & Sue Anne Donohoe When families and friends go for rides, it is a time-honored tradition to stake an early claim on the “shotgun” position (the front passenger seat). However, if you find yourself relegated to the middle of the backseat, you can take consolation in the knowledge that it is the safest seat in the vehicle. According to researchers from the University of Buffalo, people riding in the middle of the back seat are 25 percent safer than other backseat passengers. They are also 59 percent to 86 percent safer than front-seat passengers. The reason for this is that the backseat middle is surrounded by the largest crush zone, which is the area of the vehicle that absorbs shock during an impact. This column on safety is brought to you by our entire staff. We take safety very seriously, always treating your vehicle with the utmost care because we know how much you and your passengers rely on your vehicle. We appreciate your bus ... read more

Having a leaking sunroof in your vehicle is enough of a nuisance to pose a safty hazard. This kind of problem should be addressed right away. In most cases, a clogged sunroof drain is directly responsible for the steady stream of water entering the cabin. If the hose that runs from the sunroof's drainage trough down through the windshield pillars is plugged or kinked, water will overflow the trough. In some cases, the auto technician can remove a blockage with a blast of compressed air. If not, running a "snake" down the hose may dislodge any problematic matter. If the track is lost at the upper end of the original hose, replacement may involve removing the headliner. If you have any issue with your vehicle, whether a leaky sunroof or engine problems, we want to help! We have the knowledge and skills to handle all your automotive needs. At the first sign of an automobile problem, it is a good idea to have it looked at by a professional. Call  ... read more

We would like to thank our customers that donated non-perishable food items to our Salvation Army Food Drive. We had 220 pounds of food donated to our Monterey shop! Thanks again, The Pacific Motor Service and Eco Smog Team

Wiper blades may not be the most exciting topic for most Monterey auto owners – but they are pretty important. Most of us Monterey drivers have had an experience when a sudden snow or rain storm hits while we’re driving; then when we turn on the wipers – nothing but streaks. This can be especially disconcerting at night when the glare of on-coming headlights distorts your vision. Simple answer: change your wiper blades BEFORE they fail. Check them out every couple of months just to see how they are working. Of course, the more you use your wipers, the sooner they’ll wear out. Monterey drivers with lots of storms or those who drive a lot in CA where there are bugs and road grime will use their blades more. But even when you’re not using your blades, they are exposed to sunlight, ozone, soap, and extreme hot and cold CA temperatures which lead to deterioration. Your blades can just rot away and fall apa ... read more

Tis the season to give to our community! This holiday season we at Pacific Motor Service are partnering with The Salvation Army and collecting food for families in need on the Monterey Peninsula. At all three of our locations, we have a donation bin for our customers to come donate any canned or non-perishable food items. To show our appreciation for your donations, we are offering 10% off any service to our customers that bring in a non-perishable food item. So come join us as we show our community that we care! To make an appointment with us in Pacific Grove and Monterey, Request Online Appointment or call us. Sincerely, The Pacific Motor Service and Eco Smog Team