Ronald Montoya

Manager, Consumer Advice

Ronald Montoya has worked in the automotive industry since 2008. He has written over a thousand car related articles and bought and sold over 100 vehicles over the course of his career. Ronald is a senior consumer advice editor and content strategy at Edmunds and has also contributed to the Associated Press. He has also been featured on ABC, NBC and NPR on a number of car shopping topics. He got his start in the auto industry by taking a part-time job at a car dealership, where he worked in the service and accounting department.

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How Long Should a Car Loan Be?

Nov 19, 2025

Car Loan

The longer the loan, the more interest you will have to pay on it, both in terms of the rate itself and the finance charges over time. Edmunds recommends a 60-month auto loan if you can manage it.

By Ronald Montoya

$1,000 Car Payments Hit Record Highs

Nov 18, 2025

Car News

New car shoppers borrowed more money over longer loan terms and at higher rates in the second quarter of 2025.

By Ronald Montoya

A Shopping Plan for Holiday Car Deals

Nov 17, 2025

Car Buying

The best way to buy a car over a three-day holiday weekend is to break the task into a series of do-able steps. Do the right thing each day and you'll get a screamin' deal on your next car.

By Ronald Montoya

Car Wrap: Pros and Cons of Wrapping a Car

Oct 31, 2025

Car Maintenance

Vinyl car wraps are a great way to change the look and color of your car without committing to a more expensive and permanent paint job.

By Ronald Montoya

Car Wrap: Pros and Cons of Wrapping a Car

What Is Trim on a Car?

Oct 23, 2025

Car Buying

What does SE, LX or SEL mean on a car? Here are the basics on car trim levels, styles, options, packages and accessories.

By Ronald Montoya

Out-the-Door Price for Cars

Oct 15, 2025

Car Buying

An out-the-door price quote will reveal any hidden fees or extras in the contract, including taxes, title and registration. It’s always better to learn about them before a deal is final. Here's how to get an out-the-door cost preview.

By Ronald Montoya

Electric Vehicle Tax Credits Are Gone in 2025: What You Need to Know

Sep 30, 2025

Fuel Economy

How does the electric car tax credit work? When did it expire? Read our analysis, plus see a full list of cars that qualified for an EV tax credit. We also cover alternatives on how to still save money on an electric car purchase.

By Ronald Montoya

Electric Vehicle Tax Credits Are Gone in 2025: What You Need to Know

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Used EV

Sep 30, 2025

Car Buying

Used electric vehicles can be a bargain, with the bonus of inexpensive charging and low maintenance costs. But EVs aren't for everyone. Here are a few reasons you might — or might not — want to buy an electric car with some miles on it.

By Ronald Montoya