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.

A person using computer for car shopping.

Facebook Marketplace Cars: What You Need to Know

Chris Hardesty-December 19, 2023July 16, 2025

Facebook Marketplace has a familiar interface for shopping, but it lacks the security of using Private Seller Exchange to buy a car.

Vehicle with dark rear license plate.

License Plate Cover: Is It Legal?

Chris Hardesty-December 13, 2023February 5, 2025

Smokey gray tint has a cool stealth look but covering a license plate likely violates traffic laws.

2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid in white.

Hybrid Cars: Pros and Cons

Chris Hardesty-November 22, 2023December 3, 2024

We delve into advantages and disadvantages of hybrid vehicles, providing you with insights to make an informed decision.

Can you overcharge an EV?

Can You Overcharge an Electric Car Battery?

Chris Hardesty-November 17, 2023February 8, 2025

We discuss practical charging practices to help you maximize your EV battery lifespan

A lemon on a table with toy cars.

Is There a Used Car Lemon Law?

Chris Hardesty-November 14, 2023February 6, 2025

Repeated automotive repairs are costly and frustrating. Learn what protection you may have if the used vehicle you buy is a “lemon.”

A minivan with dozens of decals and stickers on its windows and body

How to Remove Car Decals

Chris Hardesty-November 2, 2023November 22, 2024

Get a better selling price by removing decals from a car’s windows, bumpers, and panels.

Polestar with Android infotainment

The List of Cars with Android Auto

Chris Hardesty-August 3, 2023November 25, 2024

If you need to know which cars use Android Auto, this is the list for you.

Person washing car with sponge

Should I Clean My Car Before Trading or Selling It?

Chris Hardesty-May 10, 2023February 5, 2025

If you’re thinking of selling or trading in your vehicle, find out if it’s worth it to clean.

Electric car battery pack placed on the vehicle frame

How Long Do Electric Car Batteries Last?

Chris Hardesty-March 31, 2023February 8, 2025

This story provides information about EV battery lifespan, EV battery basics, charging cycles, and warranties.

2023 Ford F-350 Super Duty towing a trailer

Here’s Why Some Trucks Have Those Little Orange Lights on the Roof

Chris Hardesty-December 16, 2022February 22, 2025

Have you ever looked at a pickup truck and wondered why it has little orange marker lights on the roof?