5 Things to Consider When Selecting Motor Oil for Your Car

Man putting engine oil | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Tim Mossholder under Unsplash License

The Right Motor Oil Helps Your Car Run Smoothly

Is it time to change your oil? You need to find the right motor oil for your car if you want it to run smoothly. However, one look at the wide range of motor oil options out there can be extremely overwhelming. Thankfully, you don’t have to be intimidated by the mountain of information you’ll find on how different types of oil can affect your engine performance.

The first thing you need to do is to check your vehicle owner’s manual so that you can have a look at your car manufacturer’s recommendations. To help you break down your options, Goodwill Car Donations has rounded up the factors you have to consider when you’re trying to select the motor oil that can maintain your car’s efficiency.

  1. Driving conditions

When it comes to selecting the appropriate engine oil for your vehicle, knowing your driving environment is a must. This pertains to the weather and road conditions you normally face whenever you get behind the wheel. For instance, driving in extreme temperatures or on unpaved roads regularly will put a strain on your vehicle in various ways. In such conditions, you may have to change your motor oil more frequently than usual.

  1. Vehicle’s make and model

You can’t choose the right motor oil for your car without knowing its make and model. If you’re driving a car with a new high-performance engine, you’ll need to use newly developed oil formulations that are specifically created to keep up with the recent engine upgrades.

  1. Type of motor oil

You have to read your owner’s manual to find out what type of oil the manufacturer recommends for your vehicle. If you don’t want to run the risk of experiencing reduced lubrication, as well as shorter engine life, your motor oil must have the right thickness that your engine requires.

The two most common options include mineral oil and synthetic oil. Although mineral oil offers outstanding lubrication at a reasonable cost, it often causes sludge buildup and requires frequent change intervals. Alternatively, synthetic oil gives you excellent chemical and thermal stability, as well as superior engine protection. However, it’s much more expensive than mineral oil and it features relatively low solubility.

  1. Viscosity

A motor oil’s viscosity grade refers to the measurement of the fluid’s resistance to flow. Read your owner’s manual or look on the oil cap to find the appropriate motor oil viscosity for your vehicle.

Two numbers define the oil’s viscosity grade. The first number that ends with “W” or “winter” gives you an idea of how oil flows when it’s cold. On the other hand, the second number is related to how the oil flow when the operating temperatures are normal.

When the motor oil heats up, it becomes thinner and runnier. When it cools, it becomes thinner. When the temperature is lower, low viscosity oils do an excellent job of protecting your engine’s parts. Conversely, when the temperature is higher, thick, and high viscosity motor oils provide better lubrication and protection for your engine’s moving parts.

  1. Motor oil standards

To find the engine oil standards, simply take a closer look at the label. You should find acronyms that include API (American Petroleum Institute) and ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers Association). When the product bears these popular standards, it means that the motor oil’s quality and performance have met or exceeded the requirements that were set by these organizations.

Are You Planning to Get Rid of an Unwanted Vehicle?

If you have an unwanted vehicle that’s just taking up valuable space in your garage, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use your donation to uplift the lives of the disadvantaged and impoverished people in your local community. They include those who are suffering from disabilities and 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.

We’ll 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.

We accept nearly all vehicle types, whether they’re still in good condition or no longer. Your location won’t be a problem since we can collect your donated vehicle wherever you’re located in the United States.

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.

Uplift the Lives of Your Disadvantaged Neighbors Today!

Man in a black hood sitting on the bench in the train | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Steven Arenas under Pexels License

Make a difference in the lives of the underprivileged men and women in your community with your car donation. We’ll turn it into a powerful instrument of hope for your disadvantaged neighbors. Choose Goodwill Car Donations as your charity partner by calling 866-233-8586 or filling out our secure online donation form now!


6 Symptoms of a Bad or Clogged Fuel Filter

Car Engine | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Erik Mclean under Pexels License

Watch Out for These Red Flags — or Risk Bigger Car Trouble

One of the most common problems experienced by drivers is a bad or clogged fuel filter. If you don’t regularly maintain your car, dirt may enter your oil filter and accumulate there.

With continued use of the vehicle without adequate monitoring, the fuel filter can become clogged, causing an interruption in fuel delivery. If this happens, your engine could fail and malfunction.

Luckily for you, there are signs to watch out for before this happens. Goodwill Car Donations advises you to remain alert for the following symptoms so you won’t get headaches from bigger engine trouble:

  1. Problems starting the engine

Fuel is important for your engine to start. When your filter is clogged, the delivery of fuel to your engine gets delayed, causing it not to start right away.

  1. Wheezing sound

When your car sputters when you start it, this could indicate that it’s not getting the right amount of fuel. The sound is a sign that your engine has an inconsistent RPM (revolutions per minute).

  1. Inconsistent acceleration

Even if you start your car with no problem, a clogged fuel filter may catch up with you when you experience inconsistent acceleration. When you hit the gas and the fuel reaching the engine is insufficient, your acceleration will be affected.

  1. High temperatures

If you use improper fuel for your car, the engine will tend to overwork itself, leading to abnormally high temperatures due to an irregular combustion cycle.

  1. Fuel efficiency issues

If you notice that your vehicle is consuming more fuel than usual, you may want to check your fuel filter to see if it is clogged. Insufficient fuel supply not only affects acceleration and temperature but your fuel efficiency as well.

As a general rule, check your filter every 30,000 miles. If the condition warrants replacement, don’t hesitate to do so as it will save you from bigger car trouble or even engine failure.

Deliver Hope Using Your Hopeless Auto

Is your car spending more time in the repair shop than on the road? Is it starting to burn a hole in your pocket because of its costly repairs? If that’s the case, it’s probably time to say goodbye to it. Your best option here is to donate that vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

This way, you’ll free yourself from the stress of dealing with a clapped-out vehicle. Not only that, but you’ll also get to help the impoverished and disadvantaged people in your 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.

We will put your vehicle up for auction and turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your local area. These IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans, using the funding they get from the sale of donated vehicles to provide them with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

As a Goodwill donor, you’ll enjoy meaningful returns for your generosity. These include the free towing of your unwanted vehicle and your entitlement to claim the highest possible tax deduction in the next tax season.

Moreover, nothing compares to the joy and satisfaction you’d feel, knowing that your charitable contribution will greatly benefit your community in terms of the jobs that it will help create for the empowerment of your less fortunate fellow residents.

We accept nearly all types of vehicles whether they’re still in good condition or no longer. We can pick up and tow your vehicle wherever you had it parked or stored anywhere in the country.

To get to know our quick and easy vehicle donation process and other details, just visit our FAQs page. Should you have any questions or concerns, feel free to call our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also write to us here.

Uplift Lives with Your Unwanted Car Today!

Orange Sportscar Parked at a Garage | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Deane Bayas under Pexels License

Use your old and unwanted car to uplift the lives of the disadvantaged individuals in your community. Don’t let it rot away. It can still do so much good to a lot of people. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


3 Signs Your Car Is Not Shifting Properly

Person gear shifting | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by BezeVision under Unsplash License

Beware of Serious Transmission Issues!

Transmission issues can be simple or incredibly complex. Count yourself lucky if it only requires parts replacements or resealing to resolve leaks. However, if you’re dealing with a major transmission repair issue, expect to pay more for the disassembly, cleaning, and reconstruction of the entire transmission system.

Whatever the case may be, you need to promptly deal with any indication of a shifting problem. As soon as you notice that your car isn’t shifting properly, have its transmission fluid and its system’s parts checked right away.

How Would You Know If Your Car Isn’t Shifting Properly?

Thankfully, transmission damage rarely occurs without warning signs. Goodwill Car Donations has rounded up the following indicators that your transmission is failing:

  1. Transmission fluid leak

Your transmission fluid could be leaking if you have trouble shifting. All of the main fluids in your vehicle work to help you steer, brake, or keep your windshield clear. Your engine won’t be able to function the right way if one of these fluids breaks down or leaks.

  1. Gear slipping

A gear slipping issue can easily catch any driver off guard. Besides compromising your safety on the road, this problem can also cause significant damage to your engine. If your gears change for no reason and you hear a whining sound coming from your engine, you should have your transmission bands and fluids checked as soon as possible.

  1. Delayed engagement

Your car should move as soon as you rev the engine and push the clutch pedal up and down. If it pauses before moving forward, you’re having a delayed engagement. To steer clear of major transmission issues, it’s best to contact your mechanic.

Use Your Unwanted Vehicle to Make an Impact in Your Community

If you’re looking to get rid of the money pit that’s sitting in your garage, consider handing it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations. Besides breaking free from the stress of owning a malfunctioning car, you’ll also get a chance to extend a helping hand to the disadvantaged residents of your community. This will happen when we use your auto to transform their lives.

Our team will have your vehicle fixed before auctioning it off to generate funds for the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits 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 being a former inmate or having a welfare mentality.

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.

As a Goodwill donor, you’ll be entitled to a fast and free towing service anywhere in the country. You’ll also have the privilege of claiming the highest possible 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 formerly idle members get the chance to harness their full potential, eventually enabling them to attain financial security.

At Goodwill, we accept almost all vehicle types. You can even donate vehicles that are damaged or no longer working.

Check out our FAQs page for more information about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process. If you have questions, call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or message us here.

Start Transforming Lives Today!

Person sad on window | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Dương Nhân under Pexels License

If you’re itching to get rid of your unwanted car and use it to uplift the lives of your impoverished neighbors, call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


7 Signs That Your Car Needs an Oil Change

Person opening the oil filler cap | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Fatih Erden under Pexels License

You Don’t Need to Be an Ace Mechanic to Figure This Out

Even though you may not be an expert on car maintenance and repair, you can maximize the performance of your vehicle by being alert to the early signs of damage.

Changing your oil is one of the things you have to do regularly to keep your car in good condition. However, there may be times when you get too busy that you miss your car’s regular oil change schedule.

When this happens, your vehicle may find ways to give you a gentle reminder or two. Goodwill Car Donations advises you to watch out for the following signs of your vehicle’s need for an oil change before the symptoms get worse:

  1. Excessive vehicle exhaust

One of the common signs that your car is due for an oil change is when you notice that your car is trailing smoke. This is one strong indicator that your motor oil has become too old to do its job properly.

  1. The oil level keeps falling

If you’re wondering why your oil level keeps falling, it could mean that your car needs an oil change. Worse, it could hint at a bigger problem with your oil system. If you realize that it’s been a while since your last oil change, you may also notice that the level has fallen below the minimum.

  1. Knocking sounds from your engine

One way your vehicle makes its complaints known to you is when it creates increased noise. When this happens, it could mean that the motor oil is thinning out and is becoming poorly textured so it no longer functions well in lubricating your engine. You could also experience ticking sounds when you start your car.

  1. Bad oil texture

When you check your motor oil and find out that it has small particles of grime and grit, there’s no doubt that your car is due for an oil change.

  1. Putting in more mileage

If your car is not used to traveling long distances and you suddenly go on a lengthy trip, you may want to change your oil when you get back.

  1. Check engine light

If your check engine light keeps blinking, this can be an indication that your car needs an oil change. This happens when your car does not have an oil change signal.

  1. Shaking

When your car is idling and you feel abnormal vibrations, it could be a sign that your motor oil needs changing.

Put Your Old Car to Good Use This Way

If an oil change is the least of your worries about your old car that’s been spending way more time at the repair shop than normal, you may want to find a new purpose for it. Instead of prolonging your agony and bleeding yourself dry with your car’s hefty repair bills, consider donating that auto to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

When you do that, you’ll be helping the disadvantaged and impoverished residents of your community overcome the challenges they’re facing. You’ll ensure a brighter future for those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other disadvantages that prevent them from finding decent sources of income.

We will sell your donated vehicle through an auction and use the proceeds to fund the critical programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your local area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with a range of life-enhancing services such as job and skills training, youth employment, career opportunities, internships, livelihood assistance, financial support, disability benefits, and more.

As a donor, you will be entitled to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. Expect the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your vehicle in your mail within days after it gets sold.

You will also benefit from our convenient and free towing service, which is available to our donors in all parts of the United States.

Better yet, you will also savor the satisfaction of having done something wonderful for your community by supporting the creation of new jobs and livelihood opportunities. This will surely contribute to the growth and progress of your community.

You can donate almost any type of vehicle. It doesn’t even have to be in good shape when we haul it off.

For more details on our vehicle donation program, you may visit our FAQs page. If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to call us anytime at 866-233-8586 or message us here.

Perform a Good Deed for the Needy Today!

Photograph of a Hand Shake | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Sururi Ballıdağ “DIRECTOR” under Pexels License

Find a new and meaningful purpose for your old and unwanted vehicle by using it to help your disadvantaged neighbors. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or click here to begin your donation process now!


6 Possible Reasons Why Your Car Shakes When Idling

Hand on steering wheel | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by why kei under Unsplash License

Any of These Issues Might Be the Culprit

Your vehicle brings you to work, helps you run errands, takes you on road excursions, and then brings you back to your lovely home. If your vehicle is unsteady, when it shakes when idling, all that driving might quickly become tiresome. You have to look into the issue to avoid that.

Your automobile relies on several technical systems and equipment to ensure a smooth ride. When your foot is on the brake or when your car is in Park, it should be idling at a consistent speed. Thanks to this rotational speed, your engine produces enough power to operate essential components without turning off. If you feel unusual vibrations when idling, Goodwill Car Donations points out the following issues that you may be dealing with:

  1. Broken or faulty spark plugs

Faulty spark plugs can cause your car to shake. If replacing the plugs doesn’t solve the problem, your car may have severe compression difficulties. If you need to replace the plugs, make sure you get the ones specified by the car manufacturer. Buying the cheap variety will just be a waste of your hard-earned money.

  1. Damaged motor mounts

The motor and gearbox mounts are responsible for vibration dampening. You’ll notice a lot of shaking when they collapse, particularly at idle. By keeping your automobile neutral, you can quickly diagnose the problem. If the shaking stops, it’s possible that the mounts are broken.

  1. Worn-out timing belt

The timing belt synchronizes several parts and accessories. Inaccurate timing produces shaking caused by a stretched, ripped, or damaged belt. Owners of vehicles with a lot of miles on them usually encounter timing belt issues. For this reason, it’s best to promptly change any belts that show signs of cracks, breaking, or looseness.

  1. Issues in the fuel intake

Dirt doesn’t go well with engines — especially in the intake valves and fuel injectors. When contaminated by debris or dirt, these components will provide a varying amount of gas during each engine cycle and generate a significant tremor or shaking.

  1. Broken or faulty hoses

Most speed and vibration concerns can be traced back to faulty hoses. Every car contains vacuum hoses that link to various components of the engine. A broken or defective hose might induce your engine to shake uncontrollably. It’s best to fix these faulty hoses right away.

  1. Bad oxygen sensor

The oxygen sensor is a component of the emissions system that’s responsible for keeping track of the amount of oxygen in the engine. This sensor can malfunction over time due to repeated thermal shock, smoke emissions, or overuse. When this happens, the engine’s computer obtains erroneous data when the oxygen detector breaks. Besides causing slow acceleration, this problem can also cause your car to vibrate when idling.

 

Reach Out to the Disadvantaged Individuals in Your Community

If your car has issues that are much more serious than having a rough idle, if having them fixed will break the bank, consider retiring it by handing it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll give your old auto a new and worthy purpose that will give you a sense of great accomplishment.

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 prison 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 this will allow 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 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 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.

Donate Your Unwanted Vehicle to Help the Needy Today!

A Blue Sedan Car Parked Outside | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Terrance Barksdale under Pexels License

It doesn’t make sense to hold on to a vehicle that no longer serves you well. Donating it to us is the best way to dispose of it while helping the needy. If you’re ready to process your donation, call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


6 Possible Reasons Why Your Car Won’t Accelerate Properly

Car Engine | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Daniel under Unsplash License

Check Out These Possible Culprits First Before Taking a Trip to the Mechanic

If you aren’t well versed with vehicle maintenance, you might be wondering why your car is acting up. One of the most common problems encountered by drivers is poor acceleration.

Before you panic and head straight to the mechanic, you may want to find out and check the possible causes of the problem before resigning yourself to a hefty repair bill. There are several reasons why your car is having trouble accelerating. Some of them may be simple enough to troubleshoot by yourself. Goodwill Car Donations has compiled the following common reasons why a car won’t accelerate properly:

  1. Dirty or broken Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor

You can find the MAF attached to the inlet cleaner. Its function is to measure the air flowing into the engine’s air intake system. However, if it is not functioning well, it could send false data to the car’s internal computer.

  1. Defective oxygen sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor will be unable to regulate the air-fuel mixture, which can affect the engine’s performance. This could lead to slower engine acceleration.

  1. Clogged filters

Sometimes, the issue can be as simple as a clogged fuel or air filter. A clogged fuel filter delays the delivery of fuel to the engine while a dirty air filter hampers the delivery of the correct ratio of air and fuel to the engine, leading to slow acceleration.

  1. Timing belt

The timing belt functions by managing the pistons of the engine. If its alignment is off, it can cause acceleration issues.

  1. Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) malfunction

The TPS typically detects the angle of the throttle valve opening and sends the data to the computer. If this malfunctions, the engine speed cannot be controlled by the accelerator, affecting its performance.

  1. Damaged catalytic converter

The “cat” makes sure that the proper amount of exhaust exits the engine. If it malfunctions, an abnormal amount of back pressure is accumulated, affecting the engine’s ability to flow properly.

Your Old Auto Can Still Make a Difference

Knowing what to do with your car when it manifests certain issues will help you address those issues quickly before they escalate into bigger problems. However, the time will eventually come when you have to call it quits. That’s when you realize that your car is spending more time in the repair shop than on the road.

You can properly say goodbye to your outdated automobile minus the hassle by donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

This way, you’ll free yourself from the stress of dealing with a clapped-out vehicle. Not only that, but you’ll also get to help the impoverished and disadvantaged people in your 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.

We will put your vehicle up for auction and turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your local area. These IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits use the funding from the sale of donated vehicles to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

As a Goodwill donor, you’ll enjoy meaningful returns for your generosity. These include the free towing of your unwanted vehicle and your entitlement to claim the highest possible tax deduction in the next tax season.

Moreover, nothing compares to the joy and satisfaction you’d feel, knowing that your charitable contribution will greatly benefit your community in terms of the jobs that it will create for the empowerment of your less fortunate fellow residents.

We accept nearly all types of vehicles, whether they’re still in good condition or no longer. We can pick up and tow your vehicle wherever you had it parked or stored anywhere in the country.

To get to know our quick and easy vehicle donation process and other details, just visit our FAQs page. Should you have any questions or concerns, you may call our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also write to us here.

Use Your Old Car to Spark New Hope Today!

A Black Sedan Parked on the Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Jonathan Cooper under Pexels License

Use your old and unwanted car to spark new hope among the disadvantaged individuals in your community. Don’t let it rot away. It can still do so much good to a lot of people. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


Places in a Car that Everyone Forgets to Clean

Man cleanin the interior of a car | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by borevina under Pixabay License

Keep Your Car Spotless!

If you’re like most people, you eat, spill your coffee, and sneeze inside your car. To make matters worse, you probably kick your muddy boots around its carpets. That’s why the moment you hop in, you find yourself inside your roving personal space that’s more like a contaminated bubble of filth.

While giving your vehicle the regular vacuum and wiping, you have to make sure that you don’t miss the most common areas that most people forget to clean.

5 Places Around a Car that Most People Forget to Clean

There’s nothing more satisfying than driving a clean car. If you’re planning to give your vehicle some TLC anytime soon, Goodwill Car Donations advises you not to forget to clean the following areas that most people tend to overlook:

  1. Seat Crevices

Over time, your front and back car seats will collect dust, dirt, and crumbs around their edges. Since the areas where the fabric meets the frame are difficult to clean, the gunk and grime there will eventually cause your interior to smell funky. You’ll thank yourself for taking the time to give your car seat crevices a quick once-over.

  1. Underneath the Seats

When things fall out of your hands, purses, and pockets, they end up tumbling into the wormhole to another dimension that’s found underneath your car seats. People tend to forget to clean that little gap. The next time you clean your car, try to check that niche. You might be surprised to find some pocket change and other hidden treasures you’ve lost over the years.

  1. Glovebox

More often than not, the glovebox serves as a storage bin for full-on litter. In other words, most people use it as a dumping ground for takeaway food wrappers, receipts, and other loose bits of paper. While you’re wiping down your dashboard, don’t forget to tackle your glove box, cleaning it up after tossing its useless contents into the trash.

  1. Under the Boot Floor

Have you ever tried looking under the boot floor recently? You may find more than just a puncture repair kit or a spare wheel in it. Over time, this neglected area can collect dirt that can make your cabin stink.

Not everyone enjoys vacuuming what’s under the boot floor, but it’s worth doing. While you’re at it, be sure to avoid rubbing the vacuum cleaner against the paintwork.

  1. Cup Holders

When you look at the cup holders in the center console, you may notice a crusty buildup on them. Thanks to the potholes you hit along the road, you can’t deny the shameful evidence of a spilled drink. When this dries in the hot sun, the spills can leave you with sticky cup holders. If your cup holders come with removable rubber liners, just pop them off, wash them with a multi-purpose cleaner, and then wipe them with a sponge.

Support Your Disadvantaged Neighbors This Way

The next time you decide to give your car a good cleaning, don’t miss the usual spots in its interior that most car owners tend to forget to look into.

One more thing you shouldn’t miss is the opportunity to help the disadvantaged individuals in your community who are struggling to find stable and decent sources of income that can help free them from poverty. You can reach out to them by simply donating any vehicle you no longer need to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

We’ll have your car auctioned off, with the proceeds going to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. Just like us, these IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged individuals — 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 a welfare mentality.

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

To thank you for your charitable contribution, we’ll promptly mail to you the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your car after its auction. This will entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

We’ll also provide you with a free professional towing service anywhere in the country.

Moreover, nothing compares to the joy and satisfaction you’d feel, knowing that your donation will greatly benefit your community in terms of the jobs that it will help create for the empowerment of your underprivileged fellow residents. Thanks to your donation, your community will be seeing more productive individuals and contented families. You’ll be amazed to discover how your seemingly worthless car can transform so many lives.

Since we accept nearly all vehicle donations, feel free to donate a car, truck, van, motorcycle, or any other type of vehicle.

Got a question for us? Call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or message us here. You may also want to check out our FAQs page to learn more about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process.

Help Transform Lives with Your Car Donation Today!

Red coupe parked near a building | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Lee Chinyama under Unsplash License

You can still make good use of your unwanted vehicle if you donate it to us. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form to start transforming lives today!


5 Most Common Electrical Problems in Cars

Person holding a battery jumper clamp | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Daniel under Pexels License

Nip These Issues in the Bud to Stay Safe on the Road

When you own a car, you shouldn’t just drive it; you have to understand its various parts and how they work. You likewise have to learn the most common car problems. This will guide you to take the proper action that will help your car perform well for a longer time.

Apart from regular car maintenance, you should also know the early signs of damage to your car, which if not fixed right away could lead to more serious car problems that could compromise your safety on the road and cost you hundreds of dollars in repair expenses.

Goodwill Car Donations has gathered some of the most common electrical car problems encountered by car owners and how these can be resolved:

  1. Blown fuse

While it is relatively easy to replace a blown fuse, you may want to check for the reason behind it if it happens way too often. One of the components of your car’s electrical system may be sending excess current that results in damage to your fuse. It is best to have it checked by a technician.

  1. Dead battery

If your car won’t start, there’s a strong possibility that your battery is failing or it’s already drained. As a quick fix, you can jump-start your battery. If it still fails, you may need to replace it. Typically, batteries last for three to five years before it needs to be replaced.

  1. Broken alternator

Another common electrical problem is a faulty alternator. This is a huge deal because your alternator is the one that sends charges to your car’s electrical components like the headlights, power windows, and others. If your alternator breaks down, your battery won’t charge and your car won’t start, leaving you with no choice but to call for a mechanic to fix or replace it.

  1. Damaged relay

The relay turns the car’s electrical components on and off. If your relay is damaged, these components may not be able to turn off and it will drain your battery.

  1. Wire problems

If your wires short out due to brittleness, rodent damage, or excessive moisture, they can cause the fuse to blow. They often manifest with a burning smell of rubber or plastic and can be quite dangerous. Don’t waste time visiting a service station if this happens.

The Best Way to Retire Your Old Beloved Auto

You can exert your best effort to try and keep your car in tip-top shape. However, there will come a time when even your best effort will not be good enough to ward off the wear and tear of your beloved auto due to long years of use.

If your car has reached its retirement age, you can give it a new and worthy purpose by handing it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use it to uplift the lives of the disadvantaged and struggling people in your community.

Our team will have your vehicle fixed before auctioning it off. We’ll then turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans — those who are suffering from 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 local Goodwill organizations use the funding sourced from the sale of donated vehicles to sustain their delivery of life enhancement services to their beneficiaries. Thanks to your donation, more disadvantaged folks in your area will be able to benefit from free Goodwill job and skills training, vocational services, and scholarships, as well as financial assistance, disability benefits, family support, and other vital support services.

You’ll also 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 anywhere in the country.

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community, with once idle members getting great 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 leave us a message here.

Reach Out to Your Disadvantaged Neighbors Today!

Extend a helping hand to your less fortunate neighbors. Your car donation will help them achieve a better quality of life while spurring growth and progress in your community. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


Modifications That Can Affect Your Car’s Resale Value

Car with eyelashes | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Brittani Burns under Unsplash License

Nothing Wrong with Car Mods, But…

Perhaps you’re looking to give your car that unmistakable “it” factor by customizing it according to your style and preference. Although there’s nothing wrong with wanting to add your personal touch to your car, those modifications may have a massive impact on your car’s resale value when you decide to trade it in or sell it.

What Are the Modifications that Can Impact Your Car’s Resale Value?

Custom modifications refer to the changes that make a car look cooler, run smoother, and sound better than the original specifications of its manufacturer. However, since cars are built to spec for a reason, most people who are looking to purchase second-hand cars are unlikely to choose modded ones.

Before you give your set of wheels a serious makeover, Goodwill Car Donations wants you to take a look at some mods that can significantly hurt your car’s resale value:

  1. Body Modifications

Keep in mind that your car rolled off the factory as stock for a reason. When you make dramatic changes to your vehicle’s body, you run the risk of destroying its design integrity. Unless your new hood scoop, spoiler, or body kit is a genuine accessory, they may end up being haphazardly painted at best or poorly installed at worst.

  1. Performance-Enhancements Modifications

Suspension systems and aftermarket turbochargers are only some of the modifications that directly alter your car’s mechanics. However, these performance upgrades could be red flags to most buyers. Besides giving them the impression that you’ve driven your car harder than usual or even pushed it beyond its limits, these modifications can also affect your insurance premiums and add to the general cost of ownership.

  1. Sound System Modifications

Adding some load to your car’s electrical system can also be a problem. Your powerful stereo unit that comes with booming subwoofers installed in the truck may sound amazing. However, your prospective buyer may be concerned about the load that these upgrades are putting on the car’s alternator.

  1. Exhaust System Modifications

You can have too much of a good thing when you upgrade your car’s exhaust modifications. While you can certainly have that loud and powerful exhaust sound, that same sound won’t be enticing to most buyers who wouldn’t want to risk not being able to pass an inspection when they have to register it.

What You Can Do When Your Vehicle Has Become a Liability

If you have a car that has become more of a liability than an asset, you wouldn’t want to sink more money into it for its never-ending repairs, would you?

What if we told you that you can get your hands off it for free while you help improve the lives of the disadvantaged residents of your community? Saddled with disabilities, past criminal records or welfare mentality, and a lack of essential skills, job experience, or education, these folks struggle to find stable and decent sources of income that can enable them to rise above poverty.

When you donate your unwanted auto to us at Goodwill Car Donations, we’ll auction it off and turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are committed to helping disadvantaged Americans, providing them with job and livelihood opportunities, skills training, scholarships, financial assistance, disability benefits, family support, and other vital support services.

Donating a vehicle to us will also benefit you in more ways than one. We’ll provide you with our free professional pickup and towing service at the time and date most convenient to you. Our team will have your vehicle hauled off wherever you had it parked or stored anywhere in the country.

That’s not all. Your charitable contribution will also entitle you 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 almost any type of vehicle. In most cases, we accept even vehicles that are no longer in good running condition.

For more information on our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, head over to our FAQs page. If you have any inquiries, call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also write to us here and we’ll respond to you ASAP.

Make a Lasting Impact in Your Community Today!

Hands in community | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Monstera under Pexels License

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


How to Safely Remove Road Tar from Your Vehicle

Remove Road tar | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Jarne Aerts under Pexels License

You Can Do It Yourself with These 3 Simple Steps!

One of the best ways to keep your car in the best possible shape is to give it regular maintenance. Being vigilant about potential problems can keep your ride running smoothly for a long time, saving you from the headaches of costly and constant repairs.

One of the best ways to maintain your car is to keep it clean. In doing this, you have to consider that there will be times when soap and water won’t be enough to do the job. For instance, this can happen when upon driving on a freshly asphalted road, bits of tar from the asphalt get loose and stick to the surface of your car. The tar may stick to your car’s fenders, mud flaps, bumpers, and windshield. The longer it stays there, the harder it would be to get rid of it.

To help you remove the tar without damaging your vehicle, Goodwill Car Donations shares these three simple steps, which you can do yourself:

  1. Choose the right cleaning product.

You can choose from WD-40, kerosene, or peanut butter to soften the tar on your car and make it easier to remove. Take note that if you opt for peanut butter, you should choose the plain, not the chunky variety.

  1. Apply any of those products to the affected area of your car and leave it there for 30 seconds.

You can use a microfiber cloth for this. If you’re using WD-40, make sure not to go overboard in applying the product to your windshield.

  1. Wash off with car shampoo and water.

Remove the substances by using regular car shampoo. Rinse off with water. If some residues are left, repeat the process as many times as necessary.

Here’s How to Put Your Unwanted Car to Good Use

If it is too late for your old car to be saved by regular maintenance and car care, don’t be disheartened. You can still give it a new and worthy purpose that will make you proud.

When you hand it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations, we’ll turn it into a powerful tool for improving the lives of the disadvantaged and struggling people in your local community.

Our team will have your vehicle fixed before putting it up for auction. We’ll then turn over the proceeds from the sale to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping Americans burdened with disabilities, lack of education, essential skills, or job experience, and other limiting personal issues, such as being a former inmate or having a welfare mentality. These disadvantages prevent them from finding decent sources of income that can help them escape from the grip of poverty.

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

As a Goodwill donor, you’ll reap meaningful rewards. These include the free towing of your vehicle wherever it’s parked or stored in the country.

Your donation will also entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

However, the best part about making a charitable contribution to us is the joy and satisfaction of knowing that you’d be helping people in your community achieve a better quality of life.

Nearly all types of vehicles are acceptable for donation to us, whether they’re still in good condition or otherwise.

For more details on our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, feel free to visit our FAQs page. You can also call us through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or message us here for your questions or concerns.

Your Junk Can Be Another Man’s Treasure

Blue and white mini car | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Mike B under Pexels License

The problematic car you’re itching to get rid of can help turn around the lives of your disadvantaged neighbors. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form to donate it to us now!