Chris Hardesty

Chris Hardesty is Senior Advice Editor for Cox Automotive. He edits and writes articles for Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book 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 panelist for the 44th Annual News & Documentary Emmy Awards competition. He has two children under eight years old, so he’s very familiar with the challenges of keeping minivans clean.

Advice

Car Trade-in Tips: How Can I Maximize My Car’s Value?

Chris Hardesty - March 03, 2025

Get valuable information for car trade-ins at a dealership. Find out how you can get the most value out of your vehicle by using our tips.

Advice

How to Create a Good Classified Car Ad

Chris Hardesty - February 28, 2025

Craft effective classified car ads with expert tips on transparent vehicle descriptions and photo best practices to attract buyers and sell faster.

Surprised car shopper looking inside vehicle

Advice

7 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Bought a Car

Chris Hardesty - February 27, 2025

Learn essential car-buying insights from Kelley Blue Book experts, including test drives, budget strategies, cargo considerations, and ownership costs to avoid common pitfalls and make a confident purchase.

One hand holding money and another holding a car.

Advice

5 Best Ways to Sell a Car

Chris Hardesty - February 25, 2025

Explore the top five ways and effective strategies to get the best deal when you sell your car using tips in our comprehensive guide.

Advice

Buying a Used Electric Car: 10 Things to Know Before You Buy

Chris Hardesty - February 24, 2025

Explore the pros and cons of buying a used electric car, key steps for evaluating battery health, cost savings, charging access, and incentives to make an informed decision.

A technician pouring transmission fluid.

Advice

When Do I Need to Change My Transmission Fluid?

Chris Hardesty - February 18, 2025

Wondering when to change your transmission fluid? See best practices, how to check the fluid and get maintenance tips.

Advice

Does My Car Need a New Water Pump?

Chris Hardesty - February 17, 2025

Get information about water pumps, how long they last, how to know when they need replacing, how much they cost, and more.

Advice

Do I Need a Coolant System Flush?

Chris Hardesty - February 12, 2025

Get information about flushing a coolant system in your car. Find out about this often neglected but important system in your car.

Advice

Cars Over 6,000 Pounds: How to Get a Section 179 Business Tax Break

Chris Hardesty - February 12, 2025

Maximize 2024 business tax savings with Section 179 vehicle deductions. Learn how to claim write-offs and bonus depreciation for qualifying vehicles weighing over 6,000 pounds. Discover eligibility rules and strategies to avoid IRS recapture risks.