Chantel Wakefield

Chantel Wakefield is an Advice Contributor, specializing in finance, electric vehicle, and state regulation content. She joined the editorial team in June 2022 and offers over a decade of experience writing instructional content and managing social media strategies. She was previously a DIY contributor at The Home Depot and freelance writer for various publications. Chantel also has experience as a visual storyteller, including photography and video content production. She has a bachelor’s degree in English, Creative Writing from Georgia State University.

preapproval

Auto Loan Preapproval: Everything You Need to Know

Chantel Wakefield-September 18, 2024December 5, 2024

Obtaining car loan preapproval can help secure the best interest rates and potentially help with negotiating the deal.

a person giving a car key to another person

Things to Know About Taxes When Buying a Car

Chantel Wakefield-August 8, 2024December 5, 2024

Car buyers must be aware of potential taxes collected on their vehicles because it may impact their overall car budget.

Selling a car and tax implications

Things to Know About Taxes When Selling a Car

Chantel Wakefield-March 4, 2024December 3, 2024

If you sell a car, did you know you could face tax implications? We’ll give you all the details.

Electric vehicle at a charging station

Used Electric Car: What You Need to Know Before You Buy

Chantel Wakefield-October 25, 2023December 3, 2024

If considering a used electric car, learn about key factors to be aware of in our essentials guide.

a sign for pre-owned vehicles

Certified Pre-Owned vs. Off-Lease Cars: Where Is the Value?

Chantel Wakefield-July 6, 2023November 29, 2024

The benefits of Certified Pre-Owned vs. off-lease depend on what’s important to you.

A car key on top of a keyboard

Buying a Used Car Online: How to Find the Perfect Vehicle

Chantel Wakefield-March 17, 2023December 5, 2024

Get all the details on how to purchase a vehicle online.

Couple shopping for a car

Car Financing Glossary: Finance Terminology Explained

Chantel Wakefield-January 26, 2023December 4, 2024

We know it can be intimidating to buy a car — so we’ve explained some of the more complicated terms.

A trickle charger connected to a car battery

What Is a Battery Tender?

Chantel Wakefield-December 20, 2022November 21, 2024

A Battery Tender and similar devices called trickle chargers help keep a car battery charged during extended periods of inactivity.

car finance: taxes and fees

How Soon Can You Trade In a Financed Car?

Chantel Wakefield-December 8, 2022December 5, 2024

Avoid trading a financed car too soon. Trade-ins should offset the cost of a new car, not increase what you pay.

Auto loan contract with cash and car key

What Does It Mean to Finance a Car?

Chantel Wakefield-December 2, 2022December 5, 2024

Learn about financing a car to let you make monthly payments toward buying a vehicle.