Chris Hardesty

2 weeks ago | ajc.com | Chris Hardesty

The car market is changing. New tariffs on imported vehicles and auto parts, imposed at a 25% rate on many vehicles and key components assembled outside North America, threaten to reshape prices and consumers’ financing options. Understanding these changes is essential to making an informed and financially sound decision when using a loan to purchase your next vehicle. Tariffs are taxes on imports.

1 month ago | autotrader.com | Chris Hardesty

Thanks to its advanced nanotechnology, ceramic tint provides exceptional UV radiation protection, heat rejection, and glare reduction compared to other types. Ceramic window tint is more expensive upfront, but its durability and long-term effectiveness make it a cost-effective investment over time. Consider your budget, vehicle type, and local climate when deciding if ceramic film is the right choice for your needs.

1 month ago | ajc.com | Chris Hardesty

The automotive landscape is a dynamic mix of rapid technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences and shifting economic conditions. Still, the question remains: Should you lease or buy your next car? With the average price of a new vehicle close to $50,000, deciding to buy a car or lease one for a few years has significant financial implications. And now, car shoppers must also navigate the marketplace with tariffs on imported vehicles.

1 month ago | autotrader.com | Chris Hardesty

Uncommon exterior colors sometimes offer better resale value than mainstream colors due to supply and demand. Some studies suggest dark-colored cars have a higher accident risk compared to light-colored ones. Certain colors, such as black and blue, are harder to keep clean, while gray and silver tones hide dirt and imperfections well. Selecting a car color is a personal preference.

2 months ago | ajc.com | Chris Hardesty

For years, the biggest hurdle to widespread electric vehicle adoption was thought to be “range anxiety” — the fear of running out of battery power with no charging station in sight. However, as EV battery technology improves and charging infrastructure expands, a new concern is taking center stage: time anxiety. Time anxiety refers to the worry that charging an EV will take too long and disrupt daily routines, making the ownership experience less convenient than that of a gasoline-powered vehicle.