Chris Hardesty

Chris Hardesty is an author specializing in general car tips and electric vehicles. He spent more than 25 years in newspapers, including leading editorial research efforts at The News & Observer in North Carolina, The Mercury News in California, and Newsday in New York. After that, he was an online news editor at The Wall Street Journal before moving to the Atlanta area. He didn’t have a vehicle while living in New York City, but suburban life has given Chris the need for a multipurpose Chrysler Pacifica to haul children and plywood.

Car Shopping

Car Specs Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Chris Hardesty-October 20, 2025October 20, 2025

Use our car specs terminology guide to understand several important terms for car measurements when you shop for a new or used vehicle.

Car Shopping

What’s the Catch With 0% Financing Car Loans?

Chris Hardesty-September 24, 2025September 24, 2025

Learn how 0% APR car financing works, who qualifies, pros and cons, and when it’s smarter to choose rebates with a low-interest loan instead.

Car Shopping

How to Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection Before Buying a Used Car

Chris Hardesty-September 23, 2025September 23, 2025

Buying a used car from a long distance? Learn how pre-purchase inspections work, which services simplify the process, what to check for EVs and tech-heavy models, and how to avoid scams before you buy.

Car Shopping

Should You Consider a Car With an Engine Replacement?

Chris Hardesty-September 5, 2025September 5, 2025

Learn the pros, cons, and key considerations of buying a used car with a replaced engine, from potential warranty benefits to hidden risks and essential inspection tips.

Car Shopping

Should You Buy an Extended Warranty for a Used Car?

Chris Hardesty-August 28, 2025September 3, 2025

Considering buying an extended warranty for a used car in 2025? Learn when it’s worth it, what it watch for, and tips to save money.

Car Shopping

Buying a Used Hybrid Car: Pros and Cons

Chris Hardesty-August 14, 2025August 14, 2025

Considering a used hybrid? Explore depreciation savings, fuel-economy gains, battery lifespan costs, and expert buying tips to see if it’s the right choice.

Car Shopping

Can You Buy a Car With a Credit Card in 2025?

Chris Hardesty-August 11, 2025August 11, 2025

Learn the pros and cons of using a credit card to buy a car and see why a traditional auto loan is often the smarter financial choice.

Car Shopping

Should I Buy a Hybrid Car in 2025?

Chris Hardesty-August 6, 2025August 7, 2025

Thinking about buying a hybrid vehicle? Learn if now is the right time with this guide to hybrid tech, fuel efficiency, costs, pros and cons, and how they compare to gas cars and EVs.

Car Shopping

Car Payment Guide: Calculating What You Can Afford

Chris Hardesty-July 23, 2025July 23, 2025

Learn how to budget for a new or used car, estimate monthly payments, and get tips to lower your auto loan costs. Make smart car buying decisions with expert advice.