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.

Rubber ducks on dashboard of blue Jeep.

What’s Up With Jeep Ducks?

Chris Hardesty-March 22, 2024February 25, 2025

We provide the background of why there are so many ducks in Jeep windows.

X-ray view of an electric car's working parts

Electric Car Maintenance: 7 Things to Know

Chris Hardesty-March 6, 2024April 25, 2025

Get to know what you can expect when maintaining your electric car.

2010 Honda Accord Coupe in red.

Buying a Used Car Under $10,000: Should You Do It?

Chris Hardesty-February 29, 2024February 8, 2025

Find out what you need to know and look out for when buying a used car under $10,000.

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