How To Protect Your Vehicle From Rust

 

Rusty Classic car | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by needtofly under Pexels License

3 Things You Need to Know on How to Protect Your Vehicle from Rust

Rust on your vehicle is a big and serious issue. A little rust can spread easily throughout your vehicle and turn it into an unwanted clunker. The damage rust can do to your vehicle can ruin body panels and can even put the strength and firmness of the vehicle’s frame in jeopardy.

That’s why we have listed down for you three important details on how to protect your vehicle from rust:

  1. Search for any sign of rust.

Inspect your vehicle’s wheel wells and bumpers. These are the places where rust usually develops. Due to the difficulty of seeing some auto parts, people often neglect to check them. Get your car inspected for rust. Tire rotation is the perfect time for this.

Rust often develops in areas where body components meet. They include the hood, trunk, fenders, and doors. Inspect them and look for rust spots. Any signs of paint damage like bubbling are indicators of rust beginning to develop in the areas where you find them.

Regularly check the bottom of your vehicle. This is the part that takes the most damage since this is the part that first gets into contact with hazards like snow or salt from the sea or other chemicals.

No water should be left inside or on the vehicle. Although your vehicle is made to endure anything that tries to hit it, over the course of time, it will soon become vulnerable to numerous hazards like rusting. So, be sure to dry out or drain the water in your vehicle as soon as you see one.

  1. Prevent rust from spreading.

If you ever see a spot with rust, do your best to scrape it off to prevent it from spreading. You can use a razor blade or fine grit sandpaper depending on its size. Be sure not to hit the surrounding paint.

After scraping off the rust, apply a rust arrestor to prevent rust from coming back in the area.

Next, add a thin layer of paint primer to provide the paint with a strong hold.

Once the primer has completely dried, paint it. Avoid dripping. Evenly paint it in smooth, long strokes and be sure to cover everything in the spot.

  1. Maintain and keep it clean.

Regularly wash your vehicle. Dirt, debris, salt, and other filth can cause damage over time to the paint of your vehicle which can go through the anti-rust protection. This allows rust to easily spread throughout the vehicle. Have your vehicle washed every now and then, including the undercarriage, to prevent any buildup of dirt.

Add baking soda into a soap mixture to help neutralize the effect of salt every time you wash your vehicle.

Wax your vehicle regularly. Wax does not only provide shine to your vehicle since it also gives an added protection to the paint from any type of damage, thus increasing your vehicle’s resistance to rust.

Carwash | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Erik Mclean under Unsplash License

Transform Lives with Your Vehicle Donation

If you have a car, truck or any other type of vehicle that is already old and rusty, why not properly dispose of it by donating it? You can donate it to us at Goodwill Car Donations where it will be used to help the disadvantaged people in your community. These include the men and women in your neighborhood who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, welfare dependency, and other barriers to opportunities for personal growth and development.

We will sell at auction your donated vehicle and use the proceeds to support the programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your area that are dedicated to helping these people overcome their limitations and use their full potential to achieve financial independence through the power of learning and work. The funding will be used to provide them with job training, employment services, and other critical community-building support. Our main objective is to enhance their quality of life and restore their dignity. We do this by teaching them skills that best suit them, empowering them to find decent employment so they can support themselves and their family.

You can join us in our mission of transforming lives by taking part in our car donation program.

To get to know Goodwill Car Donations better, visit our website’s About Us page. For more information on our fast, easy, and convenient donation process, the rewards you’ll get from your charitable deed including a top tax deduction, the types of vehicles you can donate, and other important details, visit our FAQs page. If you have questions, give us a call any time, any day at our toll-free hotline 866-233-8586 or contact us online.

You can make your car donation by calling us directly or by filling out our online donation form, which you can find on the right side of this page and all other pages of our website.

Let’s turn your old vehicle into something useful. Call us at 866-233-8586 and donate it to us today!


How to Get Your Car Ready to Donate

Car Key on hand | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Kaboompics .com under Pexels License

How to Get Your Car Ready to Donate: Take These Steps to Avoid Delay in the Processing of Your Car Donation

So, you’ve finally decided to get rid of your old and burdensome car. After giving it a deliberate thought, you’re finally ready to donate it to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

After providing us with pertinent details about your car and we agreed on a schedule for the pickup of your vehicle, what happens next?

Be Tow-Ready!

There have been instances in the past when our donors would only prepare their cars and papers by the time our tow truck driver arrived. This can be really inconvenient for both parties.

On our part, there are other donors waiting for their vehicles to get towed on the same day. If you’re still in the process of getting all the requirements ready on the appointed date and time for the pickup, that will most certainly cause a delay in the processing of your vehicle donation. This is especially true if you belatedly realized that you’d misplaced your car title and keys and could not hand them over to us by the appointed pickup date. Trust us, you don’t want that happening to you!

To make the towing process smooth and efficient for everyone, be sure to take certain steps before our driver comes for your vehicle. Here’s how to get your car ready to donate:

  • Have your signed title, keys, and license plate ready.

Place them on your coffee table or nightstand the day before the pickup. That way, you don’t have to look for them anymore by the time our driver arrives.

  • Be ready with your lien release, too.

That is if your state requires it.

  • Remove vehicle tags.

Days before we pick up your car, have your tags removed and returned to the DMV. However, since all states have different regulations, we advise you to check with your local DMV first.

  • Remove all car belongings.

Make sure that your car is completely empty. Take out all personal items that you have in your compartment and trunk.

If you happen to be on a business trip on the day of the pickup, it’s totally fine with us. Just leave all the requirements inside your car. Better yet, have someone fill in for you as we’ll also be issuing you your tow receipt.

Gray Toyota on Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Erik Mclean under Pexels License

Make a Difference in Your Community Today!

Still haven’t made a car donation with us? Now’s the perfect time to do so!

We at Goodwill Car Donations serve as a fund-generating platform of Goodwill organizations all over the country. For over a hundred years now, we have been providing job training, employment services, and other critical community-building support to millions of disadvantaged Americans. These are the men and women who are saddled with disabilities, illiteracy, welfare dependency, and other personal factors that prevent them from accessing opportunities for employment and personal growth.

All Goodwill organizations are guided by a singular mission: To improve the quality of life and enhance the dignity of these less privileged Americans by enabling them to overcome their limitations and reach their fullest potential through learning and work.

We sell through auction all vehicles donated to us and use the proceeds to support the critical community-based programs of these organizations. Those who enlist in our job training programs are taught suitable skills that enable them to secure decent jobs. With the wages they receive, they become financially independent and able to take care of themselves and even their family. These once idle and dependent individuals become productive workers, helping contribute to the growth and progress of their community.

To know more about Goodwill Car Donations, visit our website’s About Us page. For more information on our donation process, the top tax deduction and other rewards that our donors receive, and other related matters, check out our FAQ page. For inquiries, give us a call at our toll-free 24/7 hotline 866-233-8586 or contact us online.

You can make your car donation by calling us directly or by filling out our online donation form, which you can find on the right side of this page and all other pages of our website.

Call us at 866-233-8586 today and make your car donation. Join us in making a difference in your own community.


How to Winterize Your RV

 

RV in winter | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by atarin michaeli under Unsplash License

How to Winterize Your RV: Extend Your Vehicle’s Life with These Steps

Leaves are falling from trees, and once blooming flowers are gone. Fall is definitely upon us, which means the camping season is over. However, it’s not the end yet! There’s always next summer, right?

The challenge for you now is how to winterize your RV to keep it safe and protected until next summer. Well, don’t worry, we got you covered! Check out these important steps that you need to follow to extend the life of your RV.

Before you begin, here are a few items you need. These items are commonly found in most RV parts stores:

  • Non-toxic RV antifreeze — The volume will vary depending on the layout and length of your plumbing lines. Usually, 2 to 3 gallons will do the trick.
  • Basic hand tools

Drain the Water and Dry the Water Lines

The first thing you need to do is to drain all the water from the fresh water, grey water, and black water holding tanks. If your RV does not have a built-in flushing system, you can use a wand to clean out the tanks.

Open all cold and hot water faucets including those in the sink, as well as the toilet and shower.

Look for the low point drain lines and open them. There will be one assigned for hot and cold water lines. You can use the water pump to force out any remaining water. Be sure to turn it off after the system is drained.

Replace caps on all the drains and close all the faucets.

Add the Antifreeze to the System

You have three methods of adding antifreeze—from the inside with a water pump conversion kit, from the outside with a hand pump, and with or without a bypass. We will be using the water pump with a bypass option.

Bypass your water heater to save gallons of antifreeze. If you don’t have a bypass kit installed, the water heater will fill up with antifreeze before it gets through the water lines, which will be wasteful.

Remove the water line that connects the fresh water tank to the fresh water pump. Connect a piece of tubing to the inlet side of the pump and connect the other end into a gallon of antifreeze.

Now, turn on the water pump and let it run through until the antifreeze comes into the plumbing system.

Repeat this procedure on all faucets from closest up to the farthest. You can go from the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower, toilet up to the outdoor shower.

Flush the toilet repetitively until the antifreeze comes out.

Pour 1 cupful of antifreeze down each drain and about 3 cups in the toilet.

Turn off the water pump and open any faucet to release the pressure.

Take the water line out of the gallon of antifreeze and connect it back to the fresh water tank.

Find the water heater, remove its plug and drain it.

Finishing Touches

Check the whole RV for anything that needs repair. If you see something, immediately get it fixed.

Clean everything inside and out of your RV.

Remove all food, laundry, and items that are valuable.

Cover all the vents and holes to prevent birds, rodents, bugs, and other animals from getting inside your RV.

Keep the RV out of direct sunlight.

Park it with the emergency brakes and use wheel chocks.

Cover your RV with a breathable and durable cover.

This is only a basic guide that can help or assist you in winterizing your RV. Every RV is different, so it is important that you read your RV’s manuals for specific winterizing guidelines.

RV parked near lake during winter | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Rune Haugseng under Unsplash License

Save Lives with Your RV

Do you have an old RV, car, motorcycle, or any other type of vehicle that you no longer use? If so, why don’t you use it to help your underprivileged fellow Americans who are barely managing to survive? You can donate it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We will use it to provide life-transforming assistance to the disadvantaged people in your community.

We will sell your donated vehicle at auction and use the proceeds to support the various empowerment programs of Goodwill nonprofit organizations serving your area. These programs cater to individuals who are burdened with disabilities, lack of skills and education, past criminal record, and other personal adversities that prevent them from accessing opportunities for employment and living a poverty-free life.

Through these programs, the disadvantaged residents of your community will be able to receive job training and placement services, mentoring, career development, youth employment, disability benefits support, and other community-building support. Those who undergo our job training programs learn suitable skills and knowledge that they can use to qualify for decent jobs that can take care of their needs and those of their family as well.

For more information about Goodwill Car Donations, our donation process, the top tax deduction and other rewards our donors receive, and other important matters, visit our website’s About Us and FAQ pages. For inquiries, call us at our toll-free 24/7 hotline 866-233-8586 or contact us online.

You can make your car donation by calling us directly or by filling out our online donation form, which you can find on the right side of this page and all other pages of our website.

As you learn how to winterize your RV, consider helping the disadvantaged people in your community especially this coming winter. Call us at 866-233-8586 and get started with your vehicle donation.


How to Winterize Your Boat

Boat docked during winter | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by birkaybolushikayesi under Pexels License

How to Winterize Your Boat: The 10 Steps Needed To Protect Your Boat for Many Seasons to Come

Fall is upon us, which means it’s time to start preparing our boat for the harsh winter season ahead. The life of your boat matters to protect your investment. That’s why we are here to show you how to winterize your boat to maximize its life.

Here are the 10 steps you need to take:

  1. Change your oil and oil filters.

As time passes by, the oil in your boat can get contaminated with water and other toxins. The oil becomes more acidic, and this can cause great damage to the engine and other parts.

You need to warm up the engine first while in water to be able to drain and flush out the oil easily. After that, replace it with high-quality oil. Replace the oil filters as well.

  1. Drain the water from the engine.

Whether it’s an outboard, stern drive, or gas inboard engine, draining water and flushing it with antifreeze is a requirement. However, the treatment will vary depending on the type of engine:

Outboard engines

Make sure to open all the drain holes first. Then you can start the engine and begin cleaning its cooling system by flushing it with fresh water. You can use flush muffs or the flushing port on the back of the engine.

Inboard and stern engines

You can use water muffs with clean water to flush out the engine. Remember to never run a water engine without water. You can then flush until the engine gets to a normal operating temperature.

  1. Change the fuel filter and stabilize the fuel.

Don’t forget to change your fuel filter and check for any leaks because the latter might cause great damage to your engine. What you can do to prevent this is to add a high-quality fuel stabilizer. You can fill the tank with fresh fuel to prevent any water condensation that can cause corrosion. Just run the engine to let the gas flow through the entire system.

  1. Protect internal engine components.

To protect your boat’s insides from corrosion and metal contact or cylinder scuffing, you can use a fogging oil spray. This will help coat the parts with a protective layer.

  1. Replace the gear oil.

Always check if there is any moisture. If water or lumpy oil comes out, your boat is likely having moisture contamination, which means you will need to get new seals for it. If there’s no sign of moisture, you can just drain your old gear oil and replace it with a new one.

  1. Remove interior electronics.

Electronics in the interior of the boat also have chances of getting moisture, leading to the formation of molds that can cause shorts and blown fuses. Before storing your boat for the winter, remove all the electronics and keep them safe and protected from the winter’s hazards. If there are electronics that you can’t remove, just spray the exposed electrical connections with a moisture-displacing lubricant.

  1. Remove any valuable items.

Stored boats are also prone to break-ins. To be sure, remove all valuables if possible.

  1. Inspect your boat.

Check for any cracks, blisters, and dents. If you see one, immediately get it repaired. These things can produce more damage if exposed to cold temperatures and other hazards that winter poses.

  1. Clean your boat.

Use a little bit of your time to scrape off the dirt, barnacles, and other filth that have been accumulating under your boat.

  1. Cover your boat.

It is highly recommended for your boat to be stored inside an enclosure, but this can be a bit expensive. However, the extra cost will be worth it because it brings assurance that the harsh weather will not shorten your boat’s life. You will also need a cover for your boat. Be sure to invest in a durable and well-made cover.

Boat in winter | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Eylül Kuşdili under Pexels License

Change Lives for the Better with Your Boat

Do you have an old boat that you don’t use anymore? How about a car, motorcycle, SUV, truck, or any other vehicle that’s just lying idle in your backyard? If you have no reason to keep those vehicles anymore, you can properly dispose of them by donating them to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

You will be bringing big positive changes in the lives of the many disadvantaged people in your community if you do. These are the individuals who are saddled with disabilities, lack of skills and education, and other personal adversities that prevent them from accessing opportunities for employment and living a poverty-free life.

We sell through auction all vehicles donated to us and use the proceeds to support the critical community-based programs of the Goodwill nonprofit organizations serving your area. Through these programs, the disadvantaged residents of your community will be able to receive job training and placement services, mentoring, career development, youth employment, disability benefits support, and other community-building support. Those who enlist in our job training programs are taught suitable skills that enable them to secure decent jobs. With the wages they receive, they become financially independent and able to take care of themselves and even their family.

To know more about Goodwill Car Donations, our donation process, the top tax deduction and other rewards that our donors receive, and other related matters, visit our website’s About Us and FAQ pages. For inquiries, give us a call at our toll-free 24/7 hotline 866-233-8586 or contact us online.

You can make your car donation by calling us directly or by filling out our online donation form, which you can find on the right side of this page and all other pages of our website.

As you learn how to winterize your boat, think of the less fortunate people living among you and how they will fare this winter. Call us at 866-233-8586 and get started with your vehicle donation.


What To Do If Your Car Is In A Flood?

Silver SUV Driving on Off Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Sergey Ochkanov under Pexels License

What to Do If Your Car Is in a Flood? Steps to Take to Try Saving Your Vehicle

Now that we’re still in the midst of the hurricane season, despite all precautions, there is always the possibility that you’d find yourself stranded on the road driving a car on a flooded street. Do you know what to do if your car is in a flood?

Here are some pointers on what to do in case you get caught up in such an unfortunate situation:

  • Don’t start the car.

Once your car has been towed after it has been submerged in flood, do not start the engine to check whether it still works or not. If you do, greater damage could happen.

  • Determine the depth of the water.

You should take note of the depth of the floodwater. Most of the time, there should be some sort of marks or waterline on the car from the mud and debris. Insurance companies will more likely consider the car totaled if the water reached the bottom of the dashboard and higher. If this happens, have it towed and assessed by a professional.

  • Dry the car’s interior.

If the floodwater got inside your car, this means the interior and the engine got wet. Quickly work your way to prevent moisture and molds from forming. Open the doors and windows and put towels on the seats and floors. Use fans and other dehumidifiers to help hasten the drying process.

  • Check the engine oil.

If there are water droplets on the dipstick, it is highly likely that water got inside the engine. Don’t start the engine to prevent further damage. To drain the water and avoid further damage, change the oil and oil filter immediately.

  • Check the air filter.

If you see water in the air filter, then your engine is likely to have water. You need to drain the water. However, you need to take precaution in doing this since if you remove the water incorrectly, it can lead to more car damage. To be sure, let an auto shop mechanic do the job. If you want to remove the water yourself, here are things you can try: Remove the ignition coils and spark plugs. Turn the engine over with your ignition keys. The water will discharge out of the engine head and exhaust system.

  • Check fuel system and other fluids.

Use a siphon to pump out the fuel. If water got mixed with the gas, empty the tank completely. Brake, clutch, power steering, and coolant reservoirs should also be checked for water seepage.

  • Check electrical systems.

You can begin checking your car’s electrical systems by starting your car. Go through each electrical component one by one. If the electrical systems had been immersed in water, they may need to be replaced. However, there is no harm in checking if some electrical components still work, right?

  • Contact your insurance company.

No matter the extent of damage to your car, you need to contact your insurance company first. Flood damage is usually covered by comprehensive insurance.

Flood on Street | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Sveta K under Pexels License

Give Your Damaged Car a New Purpose

Has your car survived a flood? If so, that’s great! Otherwise, if not and you don’t know what to do with your car that has apparently “drowned” or suffered severe damage, let us help you! You can still give it a new purpose by donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

We will auction off your vehicle and use the proceeds to support Goodwill nonprofit organizations serving your area. These nonprofits specifically cater to individuals burdened with disabilities, lack of education, and other disadvantages that prevent them from landing a good job.

Goodwill provides deserving disadvantaged individuals with job training, employment services, and other critical community-building support. We equip them with skills and knowledge that empower them to find decent employment, receiving wages that are good enough to support themselves and their family.

You can be instrumental in transforming the lives of these individuals when you join our car donation program.

To know more about Goodwill Car Donations, our quick and convenient donation process, the top tax deduction and other rewards you’ll get, the types of vehicles you can donate, and other important details, visit our FAQ and About Us pages. For inquiries, give us a call at our toll-free 24/7 hotline 866-233-8586 or contact us online.

You can make your car donation by calling us directly or by filling out our online donation form, which you can find on the right side of this page and all other pages of our website.

As you try to figure out what to do if your car is in a flood, do consider simply donating that car to us. You can always buy a new car. However, the jobless and impoverished people in your community can only dream of living the life you live. Call us at 866-233-8586 and unlock the key to their financial freedom with your car donation.


Fall Boat Storage Ideas

Boat Storage | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by SKY-TOM under Pixabay License

Fall Boat Storage Ideas: How to Keep Your Boat in Tip-Top Shape

Summer has finally come to an end. You have already created beautiful memories with your lovely boat. However, everything inevitably has to come to an end. The best thing you can do for your boat is to store it properly so that you can use it again for the next summer.

Types of Boat Storage

There are two ways of storing a boat: indoor or outdoor.

Indoor boat storage – Indoor boat storage units provide additional protection for your boat. Putting your boat outdoors can hurt the hull, motor, and other systems of your boat. Indoor storage provides more protection, allowing your boat to last longer and operate better. Though it may be more expensive, it can save you plenty of money in the long run.

Outdoor boat storage – Outdoor boat storage is cheaper compared to storing a boat indoors. However, it is riskier knowing the conditions that await it outside. When you do store it outdoors, you might want to cover it. An extra added protection won’t hurt, right?

How to Store Your Boat

Properly storing your boat will ensure that it stays in the best condition possible. Storing your boat properly is critical even if it is just for the off-season or after using it. Problems might arise if it’s not done correctly.

The best option to protect your boat is through indoor storage. This way, the temperature and humidity are set. This helps stop freezing and the buildup of excess moisture.

Here are the things you need to do before storing your boat:

  • Drain the fuel or run its engine with a fuel stabilizer.
  • Make sure that the surrounding is not too humid. You can use charcoal, cat litter, and other things that help absorb moisture. If you really want assurance, you can rent a climate-controlled storage unit.
  • Put open boxes of baking soda or desiccant bags around and inside the boat to keep it smelling fresh.
  • Make sure the fuel tank is empty.

Preparing Your Boat for the Winter

Getting your boat ready for the winter season is one of the most important things you need to do to lengthen its life. Here are the things you need to do before storing it indoors or outdoors:

  • Check your hull for any gelcoat chips, scrapes or gouges. If you see any, fix it right away.
  • Clean the motors, exterior, and interior of your boat.
  • Remove any electronics to protect it from the harsh environment of winter.
  • Drain your engine’s fuel. After cleaning it, add an anti-freeze solution for protection against freezing.
  • Keep your boat protected by blanketing it with a well-made cover.
White Bow Rider Parked on the Body of Water | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Posza Róbert under Pexels License

Why Not Just Donate that Old Boat?

Do you have an old boat that you no longer use? How about an old car, motorcycle, SUV, or RV? We can easily relieve you of the burden of keeping and maintaining them by simply calling us and donating them to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

You don’t have to do anything except call us or fill out our online donation form. We will then take care of everything, including the processing of all required documents. We will send a professional towing crew to wherever your boat is located and tow it at no cost to you. We will place it in an auction house in our network where we will exert our best effort to sell it at its highest possible price based on its fair market value. This way, you’ll get a maximized tax deduction.

Once your boat or car is sold, we will send you by mail your 100-percent tax-deductible sales receipt. You can then claim the amount printed on the receipt as your tax deduction when you file your itemized federal income tax return for the incoming tax-filing season.

We will use the proceeds from the sale of your donated vehicle to support the Goodwill nonprofit organizations serving your area. These organizations cater to disabled and other disadvantaged individuals in various communities, providing those who want to improve their lives with job training, employment services, and other critical community-building support. We equipped them with the right set of skills and knowledge that empower them to find decent employment, enabling them to support themselves and their family.

Hence, your boat donation will go a long in enhancing the quality of life of the less fortunate people living in your community.

To know more about Goodwill Car Donations, our fast, easy, and convenient donation process, the top tax deduction and other rewards you’ll get for your charitable contribution, the types of vehicles you can donate, and other important details, check out our FAQ and About Us pages. For inquiries, give us a call at our toll-free 24/7 hotline 866-233-8586 or contact us online.

For the Good of All

As you consider fall boat storage ideas, you may come to the conclusion that it would be for the good of all if you simply donate that boat to us. That is a great idea, indeed! Call us at 866-233-8586 and make your boat donation now!


Fall RV Storage Ideas

Vintage RV on road trip | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Steven Weeks under Unsplash License

Fall RV Storage Ideas: How to Prolong Your Vehicle’s Life

Fall is already here, meaning winter is not far behind. You may have already made the necessary preparations for your home for the coming season, but how about your RV?

It is important that you give your RV the protection it needs before you store it for the winter. Doing this will lengthen the life of your RV and save you lots of money. If you just leave your RV without doing anything, you might be in for a horrible surprise months later when you find out that your vehicle has suffered costly damages.

To help you prepare, here are some fall RV storage ideas you can take note of:

  • Check your RV.

Check your RV from top to bottom. If you see anything that needs repairing, get it fixed right away. It might cause greater harm if the damage is not fixed immediately, especially if you’ll be storing the RV for a few months.

  • Clean your RV inside and out.

Before you put your RV into storage, give it a good wash and wax. The wax will give your RV protection from sun damage and decrease the buildup of dirt. Give the insides a good cleaning, too, including your bathroom, cabinets, kitchen sink, cabinets, and more.

  •  Empty the water-holding tanks

Aside from emptying all tanks that hold water, make sure also to empty all trash and clean everything up before you put your RV to sleep for the duration of winter.

  • Maintenance

Do all the necessary maintenance for your RV such as changing oil and oil filters, doing battery maintenance, and checking the tires, water system, seals, electrical systems, and other parts. Be sure everything is in order.

  • Store Your RV

Put your RV under a well-made and durable canvas cover. You can also put it inside a garage for better storing. This way, all the hard work you did in preparing your RV won’t go to waste. This will ensure that your RV will be in tiptop shape before your next trip.

Person Standing Near Lake | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Lukas Rychvalsky under Pexels License

Provide Support to Others with Your RV

Do you have an old RV or any other vehicle that you have been longing to get rid of but don’t know how? We can help you with that! What you can do is to donate it to us at Goodwill Car Donations!

We will not only provide you with the highest quality of service in removing your vehicle from your property at no cost to you and at your convenience, but we will also ensure that you get your donation’s worth in terms of the top tax deduction you will get after we sell it.

Moreover, your donation will give you the opportunity to transform the lives of the disadvantaged people in your community. These are the individuals who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, and other personal circumstances that prevent them from getting gainful employment and rising above poverty.

We will auction off your donated vehicle and use the proceeds to support the critical community-based programs of the Goodwill nonprofit organizations serving your area. Through these programs, the deserving residents of your community will be able to receive job training and placement services, mentoring, career development, youth employment, disability benefits support, and other community-building support.

The assistance we provide will empower them to secure decent jobs, thus enabling them to support themselves and even their family.

To know more about Goodwill Car Donations, our donation process, the top tax deduction and other perks that await you as our donor, the types of vehicles you can donate, and other important matters, check out our website’s About Us and FAQ pages. For inquiries, give us a call at our toll-free 24/7 hotline 866-233-8586 or contact us online.

You can make your car donation by calling us directly or by filling out our online donation form, which you can find on the right side of this page and all other pages of our website.

As winter approaches, give the less fortunate people in your community the hope of spring in their lives. Call us at 866-233-8586 and make your car donation.


Car Donation Checklist

Black Car Parked on the Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Jacob Moore under Pexels License

Donating a Car is Easy

Donating a vehicle is a wonderful opportunity: You get rid of a vehicle you no longer want or need; you’re freed from storing and maintaining that vehicle; the entire process is incredibly easy; and you walk away knowing that you’ve helped people who need it most.

When you’re thinking about entering the world of car donation, you want to make sure your donation is as beneficial as possible, and that means doing a little homework ahead of time. To aid you in your donation efforts, here’s a simple vehicle donation checklist worth remembering:

1.    Know the charity. Unfortunately, in the world of nonprofits, not all charities are created equal. When you are trying to decide where to donate, do your research to make sure you’re comfortable with the mission and goals of the charity you pick. Is the organization a tax-exempt charity? What does it do with your donation? Where will the resulting funds go? When you learn about the charity’s goals and activities, do they align with your values? By taking time to ensure that the charity you select is the right one, you can rest easy knowing your donation will be put to good use.

2.    Check the vehicle title. One logistical detail that matters in donation is your vehicle’s title. Before donating your vehicle, make sure its title is properly filled out, in order to expedite your donation’s value. Likewise, be sure to keep a copy of this document for your records.

3.    Ask about exemptions. Does the organization to which you’re donating have any exemptions on the types of vehicles it can accept? Does it only take cars, or will it accept other vehicles? Find out. Depending on what you wish to donate, you’ll want to confirm that the particular vehicle can qualify.

In terms of finding the right charity for your vehicle donation, Goodwill Car Donations makes everything easier for you. We use your donation to fund community programs making a real difference in the lives of disadvantaged citizens right in your area, and we send you a tax receipt in the mail a few days after donation.

What’s more, we accept many kinds of vehicles, whether or not they’re in working order. Feel free to bring us your cars, trucks, motorcycles, vans, minivans, SUVs, trailers, Jet Skis, boats, RVs, or anything else.

Side View of Car Parked Inside a Garage | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Hasan Gulec under Pexels License

Are you interested in making a vehicle donation to Goodwill Car Donations? Whether you’ve got a broken-down truck or a good-condition car to donate, we’ll be glad to talk to you. Every donation helps us generate funds to help local communities. Fill out our online donation form or call 866-233-8586  to get started today!


Donating A Car Without A Title

A Jeep Parked on a Dirt Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Mohit Hambiria under Pexels License

How To Get Rid Of A Car Without A Title

It is still possible to donate a car without a title. To show ownership of the vehicle, you can show other paperwork such as DMV registration. In most cases, a classified 501(c)(3) charity will accept donation of a car or other used vehicle no matter what condition it’s in.

However, a donation may not be acceptable if you don’t have a copy of the vehicle’s title. At best, you might be able to donate the car as a junk vehicle, and it can be sold off as parts, but that won’t do as much good for the charity or your tax return.

Nevertheless, there are options for donating a car without a title while still obtaining the most benefits for you and the charity. You may be able to obtain a duplicate copy of the title through the DMV, or the charity may be able to help you obtain one through other means.

Getting A Duplicate Title Yourself

If you don’t have or cannot find a copy of your vehicle’s title, you may be able to obtain a copy of the title through your state’s DMV. You should check with your state’s DMV to find out exactly what type of documentation you will need to prove ownership of your vehicle, but in many cases you will need to fill out an application for a replacement title.

Some states require a photo ID, other states ask for the car’s registration. In some states, you have the option of requesting an expedited duplicate title for an additional fee if you need the title within a few weeks. If there are any liens on your vehicle, you may need to file additional paperwork to obtain a new title.

Obtaining A Duplicate Title With Help From The Charity

White Jeep Wrangler Parked on the Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Gabe under Pexels License

If you are unable to obtain a duplicate title from your state’s DMV, you may still be able to donate the vehicle with help of the charity to which you plan to donate. In some cases, the charity will work with agencies that can make obtaining a duplicate title easier.

Alternatively, the charity may accept the donation as long as it can be proven that there are no liens on the car.

Goodwill Car Donations is the organization that can make your donation especially convenient. When you come to us, we’ll guide you from start to finish. Whether or not you have the title to your vehicle, we can work with you to donate your vehicle and support our numerous mission-focused programs. Best of all, your gift can help transform the lives of hurting men and women who are struggling with disabilities, unemployment and poverty. In some cases, you could qualify for a tax deduction. When you’re looking to donate a vehicle without a title, trust us to make the donation process fast, safe, easy and as advantageous as possible for you — we’ll even tow the vehicle for free.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you and how you can help us.


Can I Donate A Car That Doesn’t Run?

Opened hood of car on car parking | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Erik Mclean under Pexels License

Can I Donate A Car That Doesn’t Run?

Yes! We accept most vehicles whether or not they run. We will pick up your car for free, and you’ll enjoy a tax write off and have peace of mind knowing that all of the money from the resale of your donated vehicle goes to support our mission-focused programs.

How To Donate a Car That Doesn’t Run

You’ve tried everything, but it’s time to face the facts — nothing is going to bring that old car back to life. For whatever reason, it’s too far gone and there’s no amount of work that will get it running again, or maybe getting it running again just wouldn’t be worth the expense.

What do you now? You can’t just leave this vehicle in your driveway or garage to rust away, and paying to have it towed to the scrap yard would hardly be worth it. There’s no way in the world you’ll be able to sell someone a car that doesn’t work, is there? 

In most cases, there’s the option of donating a car that doesn’t run to charity, even if there’s little to no chance it will ever work again. Unless your car has been stripped down to the chassis, there’s a very good chance a charity will still be able to squeeze some value out of it — and you’ll be able to benefit from the deal, as well.

When you donate a broken car, not only will you rid yourself of the unwanted burden of an undrivable car, but you’ll also set yourself up to receive a tax deduction once it’s all said and done. Because Goodwill Car Donations offers free pickup, getting rid of your old car likely won’t cost you anything.

Once a charity accepts your donation, it will sell the vehicle at auction, where even a car that won’t run can still have value. Buyers may be interested in purchasing the car so they can salvage parts such as doors, dashboards or even gear knobs — and be sold as replacement parts.

A classified 501(c)(3) charity often will specify that it will accept a donation whether or not it is running, but in extreme situations an inoperable vehicle might not be worth the effort and have absolutely no value.

If you’re worried about the condition of your vehicle, send photos of the car or describe it to the charity — before scheduling a pickup — to make sure it will still be accepted. If a charity tells you it won’t accept your car as a donation, it may be worth a try to contact another charity, because there’s a chance that one might consider your vehicle more worthy of the effort.

If you have a car that won’t start and you’re ready to get rid of it, contact Goodwill Car Donations to donate a junk car. We accept most vehicles, regardless of their condition, and you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that all of the money from the resale of your donated vehicle goes to support Goodwill Car Donations’ mission-focused programs.

Donate Your Non-Working Car Today!

Black Car with an Open Hood | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Jacob Moore under Pexels License

We make donating a non-operating vehicle as simple for you as possible. Just tell us about the car, who you are and where it is — we’ll handle the rest. A car that doesn’t run can be an eyesore and a significant burden, but Goodwill Car Donations can take away that burden and provide you with a tax deduction on top of it. Reach out to us today and find out how we can help.