As an automotive professional with more than 25 years in the industry, I have seen this shift firsthand. I have also seen how easily consumers can feel overwhelmed, pressured, or uncertain when making one of the most significant financial decisions of their lives. That is precisely why services like The Car Mentor was created.

Car buying is no longer a one-size-fits-all experience. Before COVID, most consumers visited a dealership, braced for haggling, and drove home after hours of paperwork. Fast forward to 2025, and the landscape has transformed. From showroom floors to online screens, buyers now have multiple paths to their next vehicle.

Being under water in a car loan doesn’t have to mean sinking deeper. Here are a few strategies that can help:

This drop in resale value is what we call diminished value. And in Virginia, if the accident wasn’t your fault, you may have the right to recover that loss through a third-party diminished value claim.

If you drive a Chevy or GMC, this lawsuit could hit close to home—and your wallet.

Ford Recalls June 2025

Get you car ready for that summer road trip.

What automotive features women are looking for in 2025

In today's global economy, tariffs can hit closer to home than you might expect—especially when it comes to your next car purchase.

New, Used, or Certified Pre-Owned Cars: What’s the Best Option for You?

When it comes to purchasing a vehicle, the process can be overwhelming and time-consuming. Whether you are a first-time buyer or a...

As women take on more prominent roles in car buying, manufacturers and dealerships are adapting to meet their preferences and expectations.

"we believe that purchasing a vehicle should be an exciting and rewarding experience, not a stressful one."

Introduction For decades, drivers have been told to let their car warm up in cold weather before driving. The belief is that idling the engine for several minutes helps the vehicle perform better and prevents engine damage. But is that really true? As an automotive expert in Richmond, VA, I’m here to set the record straight. Where Did This Myth Come From? The practice of warming up a car dates back to when most vehicles had carbureted engines. These engines required time to r

Popular non-Tesla models such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E crossover had 7,363 registrations in December 2024 EV Registrations Surge in December 2024 Amid Tax Credit Concerns The U.S. electric vehicle (EV) market saw a significant surge in December 2024, with registrations climbing 25% compared to the previous year. According to S&P Global Mobility, new EV registrations reached 144,070, up from 115,217 in December 2023, bringing EV market share to 9.9% of total light-vehicle

Why Electric Vehicles and Hybrids Are Growing The growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles has become a defining trend in...

The Pros and cons of electric and hybrid vehicles.

Here's a look at these at these common pitfalls-and how an automotive consultant can help you avoid them.

If you're considering purchasing a vehicle or looking to sell, it might be time to consider using an automotive consultant.