Chris Hardesty

Chris Hardesty is Senior Advice Editor for Cox Automotive. He edits and writes articles for Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader, advising consumers on the financial aspects of buying and selling cars, educating shoppers on safety features in today’s automobiles, and sharing maintenance and ownership tips. 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 was a judge for multiple Emmy Awards News & Documentary competitions. With two children under 10 years old, he’s very familiar with the challenges of keeping minivans clean.

Advice

Are All Tesla Cars Electric?

Chris Hardesty - April 01, 2025

We answer your question about whether all Tesla vehicles are fully electric cars. That includes Model 3, Model S, Model X, Model Y, and Cybertruck.

Advice

Prius MPG: A Solid Choice for a Hybrid

Chris Hardesty - March 31, 2025

Discover why Toyota Prius MPG makes this hybrid a top pick for eco-conscious drivers. Explore the fuel-efficient benefits of this hybrid marvel in our article.

Advice

Why a Plug-in Hybrid Might Be the Right Electric Car for You

Chris Hardesty - March 27, 2025

Learn about plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), their benefits, drawbacks, and how they compare to EVs. Explore brands with PHEV models to see if the option is right for you.

Advice

9 Tips for Driving and Charging an EV in Hot Weather

Chris Hardesty - March 25, 2025

Learn how to maximize your EV’s performance in hot weather. Get essential tips on planning routes, charging efficiently, and maintaining your battery for optimal range and longevity.

Advice

Air Purifiers for Cars: Everything You Need to Know

Chris Hardesty - March 24, 2025

Discover how car air purifiers and built-in HEPA filters can improve your driving experience by removing allergens, pollutants, and respiratory irritants.

Advice

How Much Is the Typical Car Down Payment?

Chris Hardesty - March 21, 2025

Learn the ins and outs of car down payments: what’s average (20%), why it matters, and how it affects loan terms and monthly payments. Discover tips to balance your down payment with overall financial health.

Night vision display in a car's instrument cluster.

Advice

Night Vision in a Vehicle: Is It Worth It?

Chris Hardesty - March 20, 2025

Night vision is a safety feature in cars that aids the driver’s vision in low-light conditions beyond the reach of the headlights.

Advice

What is Wheel Alignment?

Chris Hardesty - March 18, 2025

Learn how wheel alignment prevents uneven tire wear, helps ensure safety, and avoids costly repairs. Symptoms, costs ($100-$200 avg), and maintenance tips to extend tire life and stay safe on the road.

Advice

Here’s How Much the Average Car Repair Now Costs

Chris Hardesty - March 13, 2025

Auto repair costs average $838 across all makes and models. Learn maintenance tips to avoid costly fixes and compare repair estimates for EVs, luxury cars, and budget models.

Advice

Electric Cars for Younger Drivers: Starter EVs You Need to Consider

Chris Hardesty - March 12, 2025

Discover the best electric cars for teenagers with tips on affordability, safety features, charging options, and practical considerations for young drivers.