Russ Heaps

Russ Heaps is an author specializing in automotive, financial and travel news. For nearly 35 years he has covered the automotive industry for newspapers, magazines and internet websites. His resume includes The Palm Beach Post, Miami Herald, The Washington Times and numerous other daily newspapers through syndication. He edited Auto World magazine, and helped create and edit NOPI Street Performance Compact magazines. He supplied financial content and automotive-industry analysis to Bankrate.com and Interest.com.

2018-nissan-leaf

Used Electric Car Buying: Is Mileage Important?

Russ Heaps-January 2, 2025February 25, 2025

We’ll tell you about electric vehicle mileage and if it matters when buying a used electric vehicle.

2024 Ford F-150

Hybrid Trucks: Pros and Cons for 2025

Russ Heaps-December 30, 2024

We delve into hybrid trucks advantages and disadvantages and explore their environmental benefits and drawbacks.

2022 Honda Civic driving on the road.

Best Honda Civic Years to Buy Used

Russ Heaps-November 18, 2024July 8, 2025

A used Honda Civic is a great choice for buyers looking to save money, and we cut through the clutter to tell you about the best years.

2018 Honda Accord parked outside.

Best Honda Accord Years to Buy Used

Russ Heaps-November 15, 2024July 8, 2025

A used Honda Accord makes a great used car choice, but strong resale values means finding one cheap may take some searching.

2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

TRD and TRD Pro: What to Know in 2025

Russ Heaps-October 28, 2024February 6, 2025

Demystify the differences between TRD and TRD Pro in 2024. Explore performance, features, and more.

2022 Kia Soul Front Left Side in Red

Best Kia Soul Years to Buy Used

Russ Heaps-October 17, 2024July 8, 2025

Get to know the best years to buy a used Kia Soul if in the market for a vehicle.

2022 Subaru Crosstrek Front left

Best Subaru Crosstrek Years to Buy Used

Russ Heaps-October 9, 2024July 8, 2025

If buying a used Subaru Crosstrek, use this information to make a smart decision on which generation to choose.

A totaled car in an intersection, presumably after an accident.

Should You Buy Back Your Totaled Car?

Russ Heaps-September 23, 2024February 5, 2025

Only in rare cases does it make sense to buy back your totaled car. Here are some issues to consider.

Selling a vehicle on Private Seller Exchange

Private Seller Exchange Quick Facts for Car Sellers

Russ Heaps-September 19, 2024November 20, 2024

Find out why using Autotrader’s Private Seller Exchange can be safe and save you money when selling or buying a used car.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor in red.

What to Consider When Buying a Used Ford F-150 Raptor

Russ Heaps-September 12, 2024November 21, 2024

Here are some of the top items to consider when buying a used Ford F-150 Raptor.