Managing the Hidden Costs of Car Depreciation
Time is no friend to the car owner. Unlike many assets, a car’s value generally decreases over time. This is called depreciation. While it’s an expensive part of the total…
Nicole Arata
Nicole is a former staff writer for NerdWallet who dealt with financial topics related to car buying and ownership, with a goal of helping buyers get the best possible deal. Her work has appeared in USA Today, Yahoo Finance and the Los Angeles Times.
Posts by Nicole Arata:
How to Trade In Your Car
Trading in a car is the Achilles’ heel of the car-buying process because it’s tough to get the dealer to give you the full value of your old car. But…
How Much Routine Car Maintenance Costs
Regular car maintenance keeps your engine running smoothly and many serious car problems at bay. It’s also relatively inexpensive — basic services can start at less than $100 per year —…
How Do I Find a Good Mechanic?
Developing a good relationship with your auto mechanic can put your mind at ease. When your car starts making an unusual noise, or refuses to start, you’ll have somewhere you can…
Turbocharge the Tax Benefits of Donating Your Car
There are perks to donating that outdated car languishing in your driveway: The charity often picks up the car for free, and you get to support a worthy cause. And…
Why You Shouldn’t (Usually) Buy a Salvage Title Car
If the term “salvage title” stops you in your tracks, you’re not off base. Salvage title cars attract some buyers because they’re priced significantly below market. They might seem like…
What Your Car Color Reveals About the Real You
After all the tough choices associated with buying a new car, choosing a color can feel like the cherry on top. But what most people don’t realize is that your choice can also…
Car Repairs: Independent Mechanics vs. the Dealership
Say the warranty on your trusty minivan or sedan just ran out. You’ve been having it serviced at the dealership for years with no problems. Your friends say, “Why change?” The…
Emailing the Dealership: Getting a Quote on Your Dream Car
If you walk onto a car lot and ask for a price, you may get a long song and dance before you get an actual out-the-door number. It could be…
Car-Buying Services: Let Someone Else Negotiate
If you’ve ever dreaded going to the car dealership, you’re not alone. That’s why services exist that help people buy a car without ever setting foot on a lot. Once you decide…
