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Got Noisy Brakes? Find Out the 5 Most Common Reasons for This Here!

Your brakes play a critical role in keeping you safe on the road. They’re the most important safety system in your car, giving you the ability to slow down or stop in an instant to avoid accidents.

Unfortunately, just like other car components, brakes can experience problems from time to time. There may be times when you’d hear squeaking or grinding noises coming from your brake system, leaving you to wonder what could be wrong.

Goodwill Car Donations identifies four reasons that cause brakes to squeak and what you can do about it:

1. Worn brake pads

The most obvious reason why brakes produce screeching noise is due to thinning brake pads. When you hear such noise, your brakes are telling you that your pads are starting to wear out.

Brake pads are designed with a metal indicator that emits a high-pitched signal when they’re about to give up and begin to damage your rotor. So, don’t ignore the noise and get your brakes checked as soon as possible, especially if it’s persistent. Otherwise, you’re going to need new rotors and brake pads, and this will cost you a huge chunk of money.

2. Overnight moisture

If you encounter an unusual sound from your brakes as you go out for your morning drive, there’s a great chance it’s caused by moisture. This is quite normal, especially if your vehicle was exposed to rain, humidity, or snow the night before. Moisture in your brakes can result in a rust buildup in your rotors, thus explaining the squeals.

This one is not a major issue. You can make the noise go away with normal driving. You might also want to make it a habit to park your car in your garage to keep your brakes from accumulating moisture.

3. Dust between your pads and rotors

Dust, sand, mud, or some other debris sticking to the surface of your pads or rotors can also cause your brakes to squeal. This can be remedied by simply applying a quick spray with cleaner or sanding down the surface material.

4. Excessive loads in your vehicle

Overloading your car can cause the brakes to overheat, which in turn, causes them to create that strange shrieking noise you hear. The solution is a no-brainer: Don’t overload your vehicle.

5. Hard braking

If you’re someone who has a habit of slamming the brakes, it’s time to stop. Braking hard not only gets your brake pads to wear down more quickly, but it also allows heat to warp your rotors and brake discs.

Thinking of Getting Rid of Your Old Car?

Is your old car experiencing brake and other pesky problems that appear to be almost irreparable? Stop plunking money down the drain to pay for its unending repairs. Instead, do the right thing by disposing of it before it gets you into serious trouble.

What if we told you that you can still make good use of your barely-running vehicle despite its condition? You can convert it into a vital source of assistance for the disadvantaged men and women in your community. All you have to do is donate it to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

We’ll fix and polish your vehicle before putting it up for auction. We’ll then turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your local area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as being a former inmate or having a welfare mentality.

Your auto donation will help our charity partners in providing their beneficiaries with job and livelihood opportunities, skills training, vocational services, scholarships, financial assistance, disability benefits, family support, and other types of vital support services.

Our donation process is fast and hassle-free. You can count on our specialists to handle all the required paperwork.

You will also benefit immensely from your charitable contribution. It will entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

Plus, you’ll have your vehicle hauled away at no cost to you. We offer free towing in all parts of the United States.

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community when once-idle members get opportunities to enjoy stable and decent sources of income, thus attaining financial stability.

Almost all types of vehicles are qualified for our donation program. They don’t even have to be in good shape when we pick them up.

Find out more about our donation program, tax deductions, and our quick and easy donation process by visiting our FAQs page. If you have any questions for us, call us anytime at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here. We love to hear from you.

Use Your No-Longer-Needed Car to Touch Lives Today!

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Your old car deserves a fitting retirement for all the services it has provided you. Donating it to Goodwill Car Donations means giving it a new and worthy purpose as it will help uplift the lives of the needy individuals and families in your area. Call us at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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How Can You Tell If Your Tires Are Wearing Unevenly? We Have the Answers Here!

Let’s face it, your tires are bound to wear out over time, especially if you’re driving your car every day. No matter how careful of a driver you are, or how regularly you have your vehicle serviced, your tires will eventually wear out.

However, uneven tire wear is a different story, and it’s something you should address as soon as you spot it. This means that the tread on at least one of your tires is wearing down faster than those of the others. It can happen for several reasons, but most often it’s due to improper tire inflation, misaligned wheels, or unbalanced tires.

If you notice that your tires are starting to show uneven wear, it’s important to have them checked by a professional as soon as possible. Uneven tire wear can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, poorer handling, and shortened tire life. In extreme cases, it can even cause a blowout.

Signs That Your Tires Are Wearing Unevenly

Now, you probably have these two questions in mind: “How can I tell if my tires are wearing unevenly? What red flags should I be keeping an eye on?”

It makes perfect sense to know all the signs so you can get them fixed ASAP. To help you ensure that your car stays roadworthy and as safe as possible when you’re behind the wheel, Goodwill Car Donations has rounded up the top five common signs of uneven tire wear:

1. Vibrations

If you feel unusual vibrations in your steering wheel while you’re driving, there’s a huge chance your tires are unbalanced. A half-ounce difference in the weight of the tire is enough to cause the shaking. The more uneven the tires become, the stronger the vibrations.

2. Scalloped tires

The presence of scalloped dips on the surface of your tire’s tread indicates three possible issues: worn suspension, faulty shock absorbers, or irregular tires. The surest way to find out is by having your trusted mechanic diagnose your car.

3. Worn inner edges (camber)

Wear on the inner edges of your tire suggests that there’s something wrong with the camber. A damaged camber usually stems from a problem related to the up-and-down motion your car weight exerts on the tires. Though not a major issue, it’s still a good idea to drive your vehicle to a repair facility.

4. Poor fuel economy

Uneven tires tend to put more stress on the engine. That’s because the resistance from the imbalance forces it to work harder so it can keep the car in motion. In turn, this causes the engine to require more fuel to sustain its operation under such circumstances.

5. Steering difficulty

If you’re having trouble steering your wheel, such as getting a delayed response time, then your tires’ alignment most likely has something to do with it. We strongly recommend you take your car to the auto shop at the soonest time possible. Driving with a bad steering wheel can put you in danger, so don’t risk it.

How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Tires

You can do three things to help prolong the life of your tires and prevent further uneven wear.

First, see to it that you rotate your tires regularly. This will help ensure that all your tires will wear evenly over time.

Second, avoid driving on rough or potholed roads as much as possible, as this can cause your tires to wear down unevenly very quickly. If you must drive on these types of roads, take it slow and be extra careful.

Finally, check that your alignment and suspension are in proper working order. Issues related to these two systems are the most common causes of uneven tire wear, so they have to be in tip-top shape. If you’re not sure how to check or fix these things yourself, your best bet is to take your car to a mechanic or tire shop and have them take a look.

Turn Your Unwanted Car into a Source of Hope for Your Needy Neighbors

If you’re experiencing issues with your car other than having tires with uneven wear and if the cost of fixing those issues will be too much for you to bear, why not just buy a new car to replace it?

Don’t worry, you can still make good use of your unwanted automobile when you hand it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We will use your donation to improve the lives of the disadvantaged residents of your local community. These are the men and women living among you who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other disadvantages that serve as roadblocks in their pursuit of a productive and meaningful life.

Our team will have your vehicle fixed before selling it in one of the best auction houses in our network. The proceeds will go to the Goodwill organizations serving your area.

These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits use the funding that we give them to provide disadvantaged Americans all over the country with disability benefits, financial assistance, family support, vocational services, scholarships, skills training, job and livelihood opportunities, internship programs, and other support services.

Donating to Goodwill Car Donations means getting your unwanted vehicle picked up and towed away for free. It also means getting entitled to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

Moreover, your act of charity will bring you an immense sense of satisfaction, knowing that you’ll be contributing to the growth and development of your community by empowering your needy fellow residents through work and learning.

Making a Goodwill car donation is super easy. It’s quick, convenient, and hassle-free. All you need to do is contact us. We’ll handle everything else.

We accept a wide range of vehicle types. Whether you’re donating a car, a motorbike, or even a rundown truck, we’ll be glad to receive it.

Your location should not be a problem either. We can collect your donation anywhere in the United States.

You can get more information about us, including our quick and easy donation process, by checking out our FAQs page. Should you have any questions or concerns, you may reach us through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also send us a message here.

 

Be a Local Hero Today!

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You can do your part in building a better future for your community by simply making a vehicle donation. We will use your auto donation to transform the lives of your less fortunate neighbors. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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6 Common Reasons for Poor Gas Mileage

Are you always looking for ways to improve your fuel economy just like many other car owners? This is understandable considering the soaring cost of gas these days. Getting the best possible fuel economy out of your vehicle can make all the difference in saving you money.

Aside from this, you’d want better fuel economy because this will enhance your automobile’s performance. Bad fuel economy can lead to decreased acceleration and power, which means your car might not be able to perform the way it used to.

The question is, what leads to poor gas mileage? To shed light on this, Goodwill Car Donations has put together a list of the most common reasons that cause some vehicles to consume more fuel than necessary:

1. Incorrect tire pressure

Incorrect tire pressure is one of the most common causes of bad fuel economy. Underinflated tires can affect your car’s traction on the road, which means that your engine has to work harder to move the car forward. This in turn decreases fuel economy. This also puts unnecessary strain on your engine.

Solving this problem is easy: Just check your tire pressure regularly to ensure you have the recommended psi level. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation, which you can find on the driver’s side door panel.

2. Clogged air filter

A clogged air filter will decrease your car’s fuel economy because it restricts the amount of air that enters the engine. This means that the engine has to work harder to suck in air, thus using more fuel. It’s important to check your air filter regularly and replace it when it gets dirty.

3. Faulty spark plugs

Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the air/fuel mixture in the engine. If they’re not working properly, the engine will not run efficiently. This can lead to increased fuel consumption and decreased car performance.

4. Bad fuel injector

A leak in your fuel injector means less fuel will enter your engine. As a result, your car won’t be performing as well as it used to, thus increasing your fuel consumption.

5. Excessive idling

If you find yourself sitting in your car with the engine running for long periods, you’re actually wasting gas. Idling uses almost as much gas as driving, so it’s best to turn off the engine if you are stuck in heavy traffic and other instances when you have to stop your car for an extended period.

6. Driving style

Your driving style can have a big impact on your car’s fuel economy. If you tend to drive aggressively, with lots of starts and stops, you’ll use more gas than if you drive more smoothly. Similarly, if you frequently accelerate quickly and then brake hard, you’ll also use more gas than if you accelerate slowly.

Thinking of Parting Ways with Your Old Car? Here’s a Meaningful Way to Retire It

If you can no longer expect your car to be fuel-efficient because of its advanced age, maybe now would be the best time to think about getting a new one. You wouldn’t want to be caught stranded on the road when your vehicle suddenly breaks down for the nth time, would you?

Instead, give that beater a well-deserved send-off by handing it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations for the benefit of the disadvantaged and impoverished people in your local community.

We’ll sell your car through an auction to raise funds for the life-enhancement programs and services being provided by the Goodwill organizations serving your area.

These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged Americans — those who are burdened with disabilities, those who lack education, job experience, or essential skills, and those who have other limiting personal issues, such as being welfare-dependent or having past prison records.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other essential support services. These services are meant to empower your disadvantaged neighbors to secure decent sources of income through jobs or livelihood opportunities, thus freeing them from a life of poverty.

Donating to Goodwill Car Donations means getting your unwanted vehicle picked up and towed away for free. It also means getting entitled to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

Moreover, your act of charity will bring you an immense sense of satisfaction, knowing that you’ll be contributing to the growth and development of your community by empowering your needy fellow residents through work and learning.

You can donate just about any type of vehicle, including one that’s no longer in good condition. Your location should not be a problem since we can collect your donation anywhere in the United States.

You can get more information about Goodwill Car Donations, including our quick and simple donation process, by checking out our FAQs page. Should you have any questions or concerns, you may reach us through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also contact us here.

Help Us Transform Lives Today!

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Are you ready to turn your unwanted vehicle into a critical source of assistance for your community’s disadvantaged residents? Turn it over to Goodwill Car Donations today! Call us at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form to get started!

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6 Ways to Get Your Vehicle Ready for Winter

Fall is upon us once again, and this means that winter is just around the corner. Fall is the best time to prepare your car for the cooler temperatures ahead as your car will have different needs with the change of the season. As you do your scheduled maintenance checks, be sure to include all components of your car.

Around this time, your car’s interior may have accumulated a large amount of dirt. Factor in the beach and road trips you made during summer, drawing sand, food particles, packaging, and other litter into your car.

The time has now come to clear out the debris inside your car and make sure that it is well-prepared for the transition to winter. Goodwill Car Donations has compiled a checklist of what you need to do for the fall cleaning of your vehicle.

1. Do a battery check.

Check if your battery has enough juice so that it won’t give up on you during the cold months when you need its power more than ever. Check the wires and cables and make sure the terminals are not corroded.

2. Clean your headlights.

Cloudy or hazy headlights can pose a road safety hazard during winter when the sky is darker. Older cars also tend to develop this problem at this time. You can purchase a headlight restoration kit to clean your headlights, or you can make one yourself with a mix of toothpaste and baking soda.

3. Check your tires.

The roads are more slippery in winter, so it’s important to check the treads of your tires more often than usual. This will ensure that they will have the necessary traction to keep you safe on the road. If you have all-season tires, you don’t have to immediately switch to winter tires. However, in some states, changing to winter tires is recommended.

4. Clean your car.

Wash and wax your car to protect its exterior from the elements. Don’t forget to clean the interior, too. Clear out the dirt and other unwanted items that have accumulated inside your car during your summer trips. Use a good vacuum to suck out the dirt from the corners and take out your car’s matting and other accessories for a good cleaning before putting them back inside.

5. Update your emergency tools.

As you clean out your trunk, take the opportunity to take stock of the emergency supplies you have there and update them with other winter-appropriate tools like shovels, blankets, and ice picks.

6. Clean or change your wiper blades.

If your wiper blades were no longer working well last summer, they would have an even tougher time this coming winter. Try cleaning the blades first with a paper towel or glass cleaner. If this does not work, replace your wiper blades so that they can provide you with better visibility on the road during wintertime.

Give Your Old Car a New and Worthy Purpose

Older cars face tougher times during winter. If you have such an auto, it’s pretty hard to expect to get a safe ride from it no matter how much you’ve been trying to maintain it.

If that vehicle no longer gives you peace of mind, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll give your old auto a new and meaningful purpose that will make you proud.

We’ll have your vehicle auctioned off to generate funds for the life improvement programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations cater to disadvantaged Americans — those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having police or prison records and being welfare-dependent.

Your local Goodwill nonprofits use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job and skills training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, family support, educational services, financial assistance, and other essential support services.

You’ll also benefit from your generous donation since it will enable you to receive substantial rewards. These include getting entitled to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. You’ll also get a professional pickup and towing service from us at no cost to you and wherever you are located in the country.

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community as once disadvantaged members secure decent jobs and sustainable livelihoods that will eventually enable them to attain financial stability and live healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives.

We accept nearly all vehicle types. We even accept damaged or non-working vehicles as donations.

For more information about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, feel free to check out our FAQs page. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call us through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You can also leave us your message here.

Make the Best Decision for Your Unwanted Vehicle Today!

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Be a champion for the impoverished and disadvantaged members of your community with your car donation. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

Photo by Erik Mclean under Pexels License

5 Ways to Ensure Safe and Hassle-Free Driving This Winter

Like people, cars also need to adjust to cooler weather. As you bundle up in warm winter jackets and other gear to shield you from the cold, you also have to anticipate how the dip in the temperatures can affect the performance of your car.

The cooler weather presents new challenges for you and your car. That’s why you need to make adjustments to your car before winter arrives. Goodwill Car Donations has listed the following important steps you need to take to ensure a safe and hassle-free driving experience this winter:

1. Test your battery.

The chilly weather takes its toll on the battery since it takes more power to start your car. A weak battery can cause you to get stranded in the middle of the road while driving. You can avoid this by checking your battery’s condition for any signs of corrosion. Your battery’s cables also need to be in good shape so they can last through the winter.

2. Change your fluids.

The cooler weather demands the right amount and quality of fluids in your car. Don’t scrimp on changing your brake fluid, transmission fluid, and differential fluid. These fluids have been through a lot during the summer months and they may need to be replaced. You may also need antifreeze to keep the water on your engine from freezing up.

3. Check your heater.

If you don’t want to end up as a popsicle on a cold winter day, you need to check your heater and defroster before the onset of the colder weather. If your heater and defroster are not working properly, have them serviced immediately.

4. Check your tires.

If you’re using all-season tires, make sure you have the proper tire pressure, the tire wear is even, and there are no damages to your tires that can cause a blowout on the road. If you’re using regular or summer tires, you may want to replace them with winter tires, which provide more traction on slippery roads.

5. Winterize your windshield.

Ensure that your wiper blades are not dull or damaged. You may also want to winterize your windshield by spraying it with a homemade solution to prevent it from freezing. The mixture should consist of three parts vinegar and one part water. When you spray the solution on your windshield, it will prevent frost and ice from forming. You need to do this regularly during winter.

What to Do When Your Car Has Seen One Winter Too Many

If your vehicle has seen one winter too many, it may be time to retire it. Driving an old car with malfunctioning parts can be dangerous, especially if the roads are darker and more slippery.

If you’re thinking about how best to dispose of your old ride, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll provide you with a most satisfying giving experience as we turn your car into a powerful tool for uplifting the lives of the disadvantaged and suffering residents of your local community.

Our team will auction off your vehicle to generate funds for the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged Americans — those who are being weighed down by their disabilities, lack of education, essential skills, or job experience, as well as other limiting personal issues, such as being welfare-dependent or a former inmate.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other vital support services.

As a reward for your generous donation, you’ll get high-value rewards. They include receiving our free vehicle towing service anywhere in the country and getting entitled to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community when once-idle members get the chance to find decent employment or livelihood, empowering them to attain financial stability.

We accept almost all vehicle types. You can donate even a damaged or non-working vehicle.

You can find more information about Goodwill Car Donations, including our quick and convenient donation process, on our FAQs page. For your inquiries or concerns, feel free to call us at 866-233-8586 or write to us here.

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Make a Difference in Your Community Today!

Be a hero to the people struggling to make a living in your community. Help fund life-changing projects and services for them when you donate an unneeded car to Goodwill Car Donations. Get started by calling us at 866-233-8586 or by filling out our secure online donation form now!

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Stay Safe with These 6 Winter Preparation Tips

Winter is coming. This term is quite popular among fans of the hit TV series Game of Thrones as a warning of the dangers that the coming cold spell can potentially bring. It should also be a motto for motorists as the season of ice and snow approaches.

Whether you are a new or veteran driver, you should know that the upcoming change in temperatures and weather conditions can take its toll on your vehicle, especially if you haven’t prepared it for winter. Be mindful that the required preparations for a car during spring and summer are vastly different from your car’s wintertime preparations. During this time of the year, it could be dangerous to drive a vehicle that has not been winterized.

To make sure your car is ready for winter, Goodwill Car Donations has compiled the following things you need to do:

1. Wash and wax your car.

Before winter arrives, you need to clean up your car inside and out. Clear out the debris that has accumulated inside your car from your summer road trips. Make sure you clean the exterior of your car as well. Take extra care in cleaning the headlights as they will be essential in navigating snowy roads. Waxing can also provide your car with added protection from the elements.

2. Replace damaged wiper blades.

You probably didn’t give much thought to your wiper blades during summer because it hardly rained. This time around, however, you need to check them thoroughly for damage. Wiper blades are essential in seeing the road ahead during heavy rains and snow. Wiper blades not working properly could prove to be dangerous if they hamper your view of the road ahead.

3. Switch to snow tires.

Some drivers don’t bother to change their regular tires to snow tires during winter. However, using winter tires is important in staying safe when the roads are slippery due to sleet and snow. Winter tires have treads that provide more traction on the road to keep you from skidding or veering away from the road.

4. Update your emergency kit.

If you cleared out your winter gear from your trunk to make more room during summer, this is the time to put them back again so you can be prepared for any emergency. Make sure that your kit includes jumper cables, tire pressure gauge, tire inflator, tire patch kit, ice scraper and brush, gloves, blankets, drinking water and snacks, flashlight, triangle reflector kit, road flares, first aid kit, and phone charger.

5. Perform maintenance checks.

Check if the following are working properly to prevent road mishaps: battery, thermostat, cabin air filter, fluid levels, belts, and hoses.

6. Fill up on antifreeze.

During winter, antifreeze helps lower the temperature at which the water in your engine will freeze. These fluids help keep your engine running in frigid conditions. Refer to the proper ratio as stated in your owner’s manual when applying.

The Best Thing You Can Do With Your Unsafe Car

If your old vehicle is no longer safe to drive in winter or any other weather, perhaps it’s high time to consider giving it up and upgrading to a more reliable auto before repair bills drain your bank account. Consider donating your old ride to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll give that vehicle a new and worthy purpose that will make you proud.

We’ll have your vehicle fixed the best way we can before auctioning it off. We’ll then use the proceeds to support the community-based life-improvement programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations cater to disadvantaged Americans — those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having police records or being welfare-dependent.

Your local Goodwill nonprofits use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other essential support services.

You’ll also benefit from your generous donation since it will enable you to receive substantial rewards. These include your entitlement to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. You’ll also get a professional pickup and towing service from us at no cost to you and wherever you’re located in the country.

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community as once-disadvantaged residents secure decent jobs and sustainable livelihoods that will eventually enable them to attain financial stability and live productive and fulfilling lives.

We accept nearly all vehicle types. We even accept damaged or non-working vehicles as donations.

For more information about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, feel free to check out our FAQs page. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call us through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You can also message us here.

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Be Your Community’s Hero Today!

Champion the cause of the impoverished residents of your community. Be their hero with your car donation. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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How to Make Your Vehicle a Less Appealing Target for Car Thieves

In case you’re not aware, car thieves and joy-riders are getting smarter and savvier these days. After stealing cars with a bunch of smart keys, they avoid detection by switching vehicle identification numbers.

You can either choose to become a willing victim by not doing anything to slow them down, or you can make your car look less attractive to these criminals. If you’re determined to protect your horseless carriage from theft, you need to secure your vehicle by taking preventive measures.

The Things You Can Do to Avoid Car Theft

You wouldn’t want to make it easy for car thieves to steal your precious ride. The more attractive your car is to them, the more they’d want it. Goodwill Car Donations has pulled together the following tips to help you make your car a less appealing target:

1. Keep your doors always locked.

This first step is a no-brainer. Getting into the habit of keeping your doors locked is always a good idea.

2. Keep the windows closed.

A parked car with an open window is an easy target. In just a few seconds, a thief can reach into your car to unlock the door.

3. Avoid leaving your key in the ignition.

It’s never wise to leave your key in the ignition while you go into a convenience store for a quick purchase. A thief won’t hesitate to break a window, hop in, and drive off.

4. Don’t keep a spare key anywhere in the car.

When it comes to locating a spare key, thieves know where to look. Do yourself a favor by not leaving your spare key in the glove box or under the car. Getting your car stolen is a thousand times worse than getting locked out of your vehicle. It’s best to take your keys with you every time you leave your car.

5. Avoid parking in poorly lit areas.

A thief would have to think twice before they try to steal a car that’s parked in a well-lit area. As much as possible, be sure to park your vehicle under a light. While you’re at it, make sure that it’s a well-trafficked spot.

6. Don’t leave valuables inside your parked vehicle.

Leaving your purse, smartphone, laptop, or any other valuable item inside your parked car is like placing a welcome mat out for a thief. For this reason, it’s always a smart move to leave your valuables at home. If you must have them with you, be sure to put them in the trunk before you leave your home. After all, you wouldn’t want to let a would-be thief see you moving high-value items to your trunk before you leave your car.

7. Invest in an anti-theft device and an audible alarm system.

One of the best ways to deter a car thief is to install visible anti-theft devices such as a steering wheel lock, an alarm system’s flashing light, and window etching. You may also want to install an audible alarm system that’s specifically designed to emit a loud noise if a car thief tries to enter your car. Since thieves want to get away with your vehicle as quietly as possible, they’d have to think twice before they try to steal yours.

8. Use a vehicle immobilizer system.

Experienced car thieves are experts at bypassing the ignition by hotwiring your vehicle. A thief can’t make off with your car if you disable it with an immobilizer system that incorporates kill switches, smart keys, and wireless ignition authentication.

9. Install a vehicle recovery system.

A vehicle recovery system can help track a stolen vehicle through wireless and GPS technology. This system is designed to emit a signal of the car’s location to a monitoring service or the police.

You Can Turn Your Unwanted Car into a Life-Changer

No matter how old your car is, you wouldn’t want to lose it to a thief. If you’re thinking of disposing of that vehicle, hand it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations instead of allowing it to get stolen. We’ll use it to support a worthy cause — that of improving the living conditions of the less fortunate people in your community.

Our team will have your donated vehicle sold through an auction, with the proceeds going to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged Americans — those who lack education, job experience, or essential skills, as well as those who are burdened with disabilities and other limiting personal issues, such as being welfare-dependent and having past prison records.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funds that we turn over to them to deliver life enrichment services to their beneficiaries, providing them with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, family support, educational services, financial assistance, and other essential support services.

Your donation will also greatly benefit you. We’ll pick up and tow your vehicle anywhere in the country. We’ll also make sure that you get to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season by sending you the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your vehicle days after its sale.

More importantly, your act of kindness will allow you to experience the priceless joy of knowing that you’re doing something that will bring hope to the underprivileged members of your community.

We accept almost all vehicle types regardless of their ages, appearances, or working conditions.

Want to know our quick and easy vehicle donation process and other important details about our vehicle donation program? Check them out on our FAQs page. Should you have any questions or concerns, you may reach us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also send us a message here.

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Help Uplift the Lives of the Needy Today!

You can make a massive impact on the lives of the disadvantaged and impoverished people in your community. Your car donation can help ease their burdens. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

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Take the Pain Out of Negotiating and Get a Great Deal!

Are you feeling more anxious than excited about the idea of making a car purchase? While the process can potentially be overwhelming and stressful for some, it doesn’t have to be that way for you. You can turn your car buying experience into a good one if you come to the dealership well-prepared.

How to Negotiate with a Car Dealer

The moment you step inside a dealership, you’ll be up against salespeople who are trained to negotiate. Thankfully, learning how to negotiate the purchase price of your prospective vehicle can be relatively straightforward. If you do your research beforehand, you’ll increase your chances of getting a good deal.

Goodwill Car Donations shares the following tips on how to negotiate with a car dealer:

1. Know the market value of the vehicle you intend to buy.

Before you start the negotiating process, you’ll need to read up on everything you can find about the car that you’re interested in. Unless you have a good idea about its cost, you won’t be able to set your ideal target price for it. Start by looking at the information about the car model on websites such as Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to determine its estimated price range in your location.

2. Take emotions out of the equation.

Once you’ve got the information you need and you’re ready to negotiate the vehicle’s price, don’t get too attached to a specific car model or allow the car salesperson to pressure you into buying a car with a less-than-optimal sales price.

To avoid falling prey to hard-sell tactics at the dealership and get the best possible deal, you need to keep your emotion out of the transaction. Otherwise, you may not end up with your ideal target sales price for the car you want. You should always be ready and willing to walk away if you’re not getting a fair price for it.

3. Negotiate parts of the transaction separately.

Most dealers would want to focus on each transaction as a whole. For this reason, they would cover everything — from financing and car price to various add-on purchases. They do this to make it seem like they’re giving you a good deal. While this may be true in one area of the transaction, the dealership can make money in other areas.

If you don’t want to end up paying more for your vehicle in the end, you should focus on one aspect of the transaction rather than the whole picture. You have to be polite but firm about your decision to negotiate parts of the transaction separately when the salesperson insists on doing it their way. After all, you can always find another dealer who’s willing to work with you.

4. Negotiate the vehicle’s final price.

The final price a buyer pays to drive the vehicle off the lot is usually called an “out-the-door” or “drive-away” price. You can tell the dealership that unless you work with an out-the-door number that includes sales tax, all fees, and other costs, you’d walk away.

Use Your Unwanted Car to Bring Good News to Your Community

If you’re planning to dispose of your unwanted car to make room for your brand-new ride, consider donating the former to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We will use your donation to uplift the lives of the disadvantaged members of your local community.

We will have your car auctioned off, with the proceeds going to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans — those who are saddled with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having a welfare mentality or prison records. These disadvantages prevent them from finding decent sources of income that can free them from the clutches of poverty.

Your car donation will allow you to contribute to funding your local Goodwill organizations so they can provide life improvement services to more people in need.  Goodwill nonprofits provide their beneficiaries with job and skills training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, family support, educational services, financial assistance, and other essential support services.

You’ll also greatly benefit from your charitable contribution since this will entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. Moreover, we’ll provide you with our free professional pickup and towing service at your convenience and in any location within the United States.

Best of all, you’ll find utmost satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community when once idle members get opportunities to harness their full potential, leading to their attainment of financial security.

Don’t hesitate to donate any type of vehicle regardless of its year, make, model, mileage, or working condition. We’ll take your car, truck, van, RV, motorcycle, or riding lawnmower as it is.

For more information about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, feel free to check out our FAQs page. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or message us here.

 

Help Transform Lives Today!

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You can help transform the lives of the less fortunate people in your community with your car donation. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

Photo by Erik Mclean under Unsplash License

Become a Savvy Car Buyer This Way!

If you ask a car salesperson what’s the price of a particular car model, don’t expect to get the best price right away. They’ll probably ask you to sit down and negotiate with you for about an hour before they give you a number that resembles a real price. You’re exactly the type of buyer they love.

What they hate are comparison shoppers — those savvy car buyers who don’t walk into a dealership without comparing reliable price quotes to other dealers’ bids.

How to Compare Prices Between Dealerships

If you’re looking to purchase a new car, the last thing you’d want is to spend hours negotiating with salespeople. You can cut the chase if you shop around and learn how to compare prices between dealerships. Goodwill Car Donations shares some tips to help you get the best price possible.

1. Avoid focusing on monthly payments.

Focusing on monthly payments alone is the perfect way to trap yourself into a bad deal. Be mindful of the taxes, extra fees, and add-ons that you’ll have to pay aside from the price of the car itself. Don’t forget that the total cost of your car increases due to the interest that the dealer adds if you agree to longer payment terms.

2. Pre-arrange your financing.

Did you know that dealers and lenders have established agreements that allow the former to mark up interest rates when they negotiate deals? It’s safe to say that you’ll be a few thousand dollars richer if you decide to pre-arrange your financing. Even if one dealership offers lower financing rates than others, the rates in in-house financing are still higher than the rates you’ll get if you go straight to the bank.

3. Ask for leftover stocks from special promos.

When dealerships introduce a new vehicle model, they sometimes launch special promos along with it. In some cases, they end up with leftover stocks if they don’t get to sell all of those models within the time frame they announced to the public. If you’re lucky, you can purchase a brand-new ride at a good price even if you bought it way beyond the promo period.

Is It Time to Retire Your Old Car?

If you’re not willing to shell out another dollar for your old car’s maintenance and repairs, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use your donation to uplift the lives of the people in your community who are suffering from disabilities as well as those burdened with a lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having a welfare mentality and being a former inmate.

Our team will sell your donated vehicle in one of the best auction houses in our network, with the proceeds going to the local Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to empowering disadvantaged Americans, providing them with job and skills training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, family support, educational services, financial assistance, and other essential support services.

Expect to receive valuable rewards when you donate a vehicle to us. They include getting our free professional towing service anywhere in the country. Your gift will also entitle you to receive the highest possible tax deduction in the next tax season.

However, the best part about making a charitable contribution to us is the priceless joy of knowing that you’ve done something that can help your disadvantaged neighbors overcome barriers to a better quality of life.

You can donate not just a car, pick-up truck, or motorcycle but also a golf cart, unused farm tractor, and any other type of vehicle, including a boat. We’ll welcome whatever type of vehicle you donate regardless of its age or condition.

For information about our quick and easy donation process, head over to our FAQs page. If you have questions or concerns, feel free to call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or write to us here.

Turn Your Unwanted Vehicle Into a Beacon of Hope Today!

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If you’re ready to give the disadvantaged folks in your community a chance to have a brighter future, turn your old car into a beacon of hope for them. Donate that vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations by calling 866-233-8586 or filling out our secure online donation form now!

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How to Become an Informed Car Shopper

While car shopping can easily be one of the most exciting experiences for anyone, it can also be a stressful one for you if you don’t arm yourself with the right information about the vehicle you’re interested in and the price you can afford. Unless you come prepared, you won’t have the tools you need to negotiate well.

When you head down to the dealership or take a car out for a test drive without doing some research beforehand, you can’t expect to make a wise buying decision. If you want to be an informed car shopper, Goodwill Car Donations has come up with the following checklist of the essential things you need to know before purchasing a car:

1. Consider financing.

Since a vehicle purchase is a major expenditure, the first thing you need to do is to think about financing. You’d want to know what kind of deposit you’re able to put down and the amount of monthly payment you can afford. To help you get a sense of what you qualify for, check out available auto loans. Before you obtain offers from lenders, you might also want to try a service that gives you options for rates and terms that fit your budget.

2. Know your credit score.

If you intend to save money by negotiating a good deal, you need to know your credit score and the interest rates available. The higher your credit score, the more likely you’ll get a lower interest rate on a car loan. If your credit score is less than stellar, do whatever you can to improve it.

3. Research the car you’re interested in.

It’s best to determine the type of vehicle you want to purchase before you head to a dealership. You can find several reliable resources on the internet to help you search for vehicles being sold in dealerships in your area. Besides researching vehicle makes, models, and body styles, don’t forget to check out reviews and discussion forums.

4. Get detailed pricing info.

You’d want to compare prices in advance. To get the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the car you intend to buy, the car’s dealer invoice, and the range of car prices in dealerships, use the Kelley Blue Book. It’s one of the most reliable tools that can provide you with detailed pricing info.

Are You Ready to Dispose of a Problematic Vehicle?

Photo by Erik Mclean under Pexels License

Perhaps you’re looking to buy a new car because your old one is burning a hole in your wallet because of its never-ending repairs. If you’re ready to part ways with your clunker, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations for the benefit of the disadvantaged and impoverished residents of your local community.

We will sell your donated vehicle through an auction and use the proceeds to help finance the community-based job and livelihood programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans — those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as living with a welfare mentality or being a former inmate. These disadvantages prevent them from finding decent sources of income that can enable them to attain financial independence and live productive and fulfilling lives.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job and skills training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, family support, educational services, financial assistance, and other essential support services.

Your donation will also benefit you in more ways than one. It will entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. Expect the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your vehicle in your mailbox after it gets sold.

We will also take care of picking up and towing your vehicle away wherever it’s located in the country at no cost to you.

While these material rewards are worth looking forward to, they pale in comparison to the priceless joy of knowing that you’re doing something wonderful for your community since your donation will support the creation of new jobs and livelihood opportunities. This will surely contribute to the growth and progress of your community.

Since we accept nearly all vehicle types, feel free to donate to us your spare car, truck, van, RV, motorcycle, or any specialty vehicle. It doesn’t even have to be in good shape when we haul it off.

For more details on our vehicle donation program, including our quick and convenient donation process, head over to our FAQs page. If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to reach us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or write to us here.

Help Transform Lives Today!

You can turn your unwanted car into a powerful tool that can help the less fortunate folks in your community live healthy and productive lives. Donate that vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations by calling 866-233-8586 or filling out our secure online donation form now!