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

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.

a couple smiles while signing paperwork in a car dealer's showroom

Car Shopping

How to Negotiate a Car Deal: What You Need to Know

Chris Hardesty-July 21, 2025July 21, 2025

Learn expert tips for negotiating with car dealers, including how to research prices, set a budget, get loan preapproval and secure the best deal.

Car Shopping

How Much Car Can I Afford?

Chris Hardesty-July 18, 2025July 18, 2025

Learn to determine how much car you can afford with expert tips on budgeting, loan terms, down payments, and total ownership costs to shop confidently.

Car Shopping

Things to Know About Taxes When Selling a Car

Chris Hardesty-April 28, 2025April 28, 2025

Learn the tax rules before selling your car or buying one. Find out who pays sales tax, when capital gains tax might apply, and how donations or trade-ins work.

A technician installing car window tint.

Car Shopping

Ceramic Window Tint: Is It Worth the Cost in 2025?

Chris Hardesty-April 21, 2025April 21, 2025

Learn the pros and cons of ceramic window tint. This guide covers ceramic tint cost, UV protection, heat rejection, and how it compares to regular, carbon, and metallic tints.