Chris Hardesty

Chris Hardesty is Senior Advice Editor for Cox Automotive. He edits and writes articles for Autotrader, advising consumers on the financial aspects of buying and selling cars, and sharing maintenance and ownership tips. His goal is to simplify complex topics to help readers make confident decisions. Chris spent nearly three decades in newspapers, including leading research departments at The Mercury News in California and Newsday in New York. After that, he was the How-to Guides Editor at The Wall Street Journal until moving to metro Atlanta. Chris has judged multiple Emmy Awards in News & Documentary categories. With two children under 10 years old, he's very familiar with the challenges of keeping minivans clean.

Car Shopping

Can You Buy a Car With a Credit Card in 2026?

Chris Hardesty-January 8, 2026January 9, 2026

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

Getting the Most Money for Your Trade-In

Chris Hardesty-December 30, 2025January 5, 2026

Get top dollar for your trade-in with simple steps: Clean the car, fix small issues and dents, address curb rash and tires, and bring service records to strengthen your appraisal.

How to decide whether to buy from private seller or dealer

Car Shopping

Private Seller vs. Dealer When Buying a Used Car

Chris Hardesty-November 26, 2025July 7, 2026

Should you buy your next used car from a private seller or a dealer? We outline the pros and cons of both options.

Car Shopping

Car Specs Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Chris Hardesty-October 20, 2025December 19, 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

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, 2025October 19, 2026

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

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.

Car Shopping

How Much Car Can I Afford?

Chris Hardesty-July 18, 2025October 15, 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.