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 window sticker with MSRP, the manufacturer's suggested retail price.

What Does MSRP Mean?

Chris Hardesty-February 8, 2024February 8, 2025

We explain exactly what an MSRP is, along with a few other pricing-related terms you should know before going to a dealership.

Car dealer calculate interest rate and costs of car loan with calculator, explaining details to customer on term and agreement in dealership office.

Car Loan and Lease Terms for Vehicle Buying

Chris Hardesty-January 30, 2024November 21, 2024

Find out what terms you need to know and the lengths of loans for car buying.

A person pumping gas into car.

What Happens if You Overfill Your Gas Tank?

Chris Hardesty-December 27, 2023February 8, 2025

Adding more fuel after the pump “clicks” to indicate a full tank is a habit that can cost you hundreds of dollars in repairs.

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.