Top 5 Reasons to Have Your Car Repaired/Serviced at a Dealership

Finding it Hard to Find a Repair Shop for Your Old Car | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Andrea Piacquadio under Pexels License

It’s More Practical Than You Think!

Owning a car is not cheap. To ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly every time you use it, you need to adhere to a maintenance schedule to nip any potential issues in the bud before they get worse, which could later cost you a lot of money to fix.

While you may want to save up on repair or servicing costs by taking your car to any local mechanic you can find, it may be wiser and more practical to have your vehicle repaired or serviced at a dealership service center even though its services may cost more than those offered in independent auto shops.

You might be tempted to bring your car to a local auto shop because of the price difference. However, if you weigh the overall benefits you’ll get from a dealership, you may come to realize that paying for its services is a worthwhile investment.

Here are the top 5 reasons to have your car repaired or serviced at a dealership:

  1. Warranty for repairs and other services

Taking your car to a dealership gives you the manufacturer’s warranty for the repair and servicing of your car. You can also get discounts there.

  1. Expert technicians

When you go to a dealership, you can be sure that your car’s repair and servicing will be handled by technicians who are trained and familiar with your auto’s make and model. This means that they will be able to deal with your car’s issues swiftly and efficiently.

  1. Proper equipment

Dealership auto centers have modern equipment that other repair shops don’t have. This allows their mechanics to deal with your car issues more professionally, providing you with direct manufacturer support and authentic part replacements.

  1. Efficiency

Because dealerships are used to dealing with your car brand and models, you do not need to explain at length what needs to be done. They are already familiar with the services that your car needs. What’s more, they are accessible because of the number of branches they have in different locations.

  1. Customer service

Dealerships often offer amenities to their customers, such as loaner cars, shuttle service, and complimentary coffee and snacks while they wait for their cars to be repaired. They also have customer service departments that can answer questions from their customers.

Overall, having your car repaired at a dealership can provide you peace of mind and ensure that your car is repaired to the highest standards.

Finding it Hard to Find a Repair Shop for Your Old Car?

Many dealerships do not service very old vehicles because their technicians generally do not have the skills required to work on them.

If you have an ancient car and you’re finding it hard to find a shop that can repair it, better to give up the ghost and give that venerable vehicle a fitting retirement. You can do that by donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use it to empower the disadvantaged and impoverished people in your community so they can live productive, healthy, and fulfilling lives.

Our team will have your car auctioned off, with the proceeds going to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans — those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having a welfare mentality and being a former inmate.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding sourced from the sale of donated vehicles to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and many other essential support services.

Donating to Goodwill Car Donations is not only easy and hassle-free, but it’s super rewarding, too. Your gift will entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.  You will also benefit from our free towing service, which you can get wherever you are in the country.

Best of all, your act of charity will bring you an immense sense of personal satisfaction. Thanks to your gift, your community will be seeing more productive individuals and contented families. You’ll be amazed to discover how your old car can transform so many lives.

We accept nearly all types of vehicles regardless of their ages or conditions. You can donate even a damaged or non-working car.

To get to know our simple and convenient vehicle donation process and other relevant information, visit our FAQs page. For your questions and concerns, call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.

Photo of Classic Car Parked on Parking Lot | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Erik Mclean under Pexels License

Transform Lives with Your Vehicle Donation Today!

You can do something that can help transform the lives of the disadvantaged residents of your community. You can help empower them with your car donation. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


How Often Should You Change Your Air Filter

When Should You Change Your Air Filter | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by cottonbro studio under Pexels License

2 Indicators That It’s Due for Replacement

Maintaining your car should be a priority if you want your drive to be safe and smooth all the time. Even new cars need to be maintained even when they do not show problems.

One item that should be on your maintenance checklist is replacing your car’s air filter regularly. The air filter prevents small particles and other contaminants from entering the engine.

Don’t scrimp on cash and don’t think this is not as important as the other items on your maintenance list. Take preemptive action before a clogged air filter damages your engine.

Aside from helping keep your engine in tip-top shape, your air filter also improves fuel efficiency, saving you money at the pump. It also helps reduce your vehicle’s emissions, allowing you to do Mother Earth a favor.

For these reasons, you should have no excuses for delaying the replacement of your old air filter. Goodwill Car Donations shares two easy reminders that it’s time for you to do so.

  • Change your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.

Set your schedule to change your air filter every time your vehicle hits 12,000 to 15,000 miles. Set a reminder on your calendar so you don’t forget.

  • Change your air filter when it gets too dirty.

When your air filter gets too dirty, it cannot perform its function anymore and could damage your engine. Do a visual check of your air filter as part of your regular car maintenance. This is especially important if you often drive in dusty road conditions.

 

What to Do When Your Car Can No Longer Be Saved

Changing your air filter periodically is a preventive action that will help prolong your engine’s life and improve your car’s performance. However, if you’re driving a car that has passed the “point of no return” (too old and too worn-out to use), changing its air filter may just be a waste of your time and resources. Your only option is to dispose of that vehicle altogether and buy a new one.

However, you can still put that clunker to good use one last time by donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll quickly get it off your hands at no cost to you while allowing you to enjoy a highly rewarding donating experience.

Our team will get your car fixed the best way they can before putting it up for auction. The proceeds will go directly to the Goodwill organizations serving your area.

These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans — those who are saddled with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as having prison records and a welfare mentality. These disadvantages prevent them from finding decent sources of income that can free them from a life of poverty.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give them to provide beneficiaries in your area with job and skills training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and many other essential support services. These services are meant to empower the underprivileged residents of your community to attain financial stability and live productive, healthy, and fulfilling lives.

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 towing service at a date and place most convenient to you anywhere in the country.

Your gift will also allow you to savor the satisfaction of serving your community by helping your less fortunate neighbors.

We accept nearly all vehicle types, even those that are no longer working.

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, call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.

Brown Coupe Parked on Parking Lot | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Vlada Karpovich under Pexels License

Help Transform Lives Today!

If you’re ready to make a difference in your community, don’t hesitate to donate a vehicle to us. Such a donation can make you a hero to the disadvantaged residents of your community. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


How to Take Good Care of Your Car Tires

Simple Ways to Make Your Tires Go the Extra Mile | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Obi under Unsplash License

4 Simple Ways to Make Your Tires Go the Extra Mile

Tires are arguably the most abused parts of the car and often, the most neglected. Many car owners take them for granted until visible damage shows up that affects their driving. This should not be the case.

Because tires are the only components of the car that come into direct contact with the ground, they are prone to suffer damage. If left unchecked, the damage could lead to blowouts and major accidents, which could be very dangerous to drivers and their passengers. That’s why caring for your car’s tires should always be your top priority.

When you do your regular car maintenance, you need to include checking your tires to ensure they are in tip-top shape. Goodwill Car Donations shares the following simple tips on how to take good care of your car tires:

  1. Check your tire pressure.

Your tire pressure affects your driving. Having the correct pressure on all your car’s four tires will minimize their wear and tear. Low pressure can lead to more of your tire’s surface coming into contact with the ground. On the other hand, overinflated tires increase the risk of a blowout. To determine the right pressure for your car tires, check your owner’s manual.

  1. Rotate your tires.

Rotating your tires evens out their wear. Typically, the front tires wear out faster than the back. Rotating them extends the lifespan of your front tires.

  1. Check your tire treads.

Your tire treads provide traction on the road for a safe drive. Refer to the tread wear bar on your tires to see whether they are due for replacements. Also, look out for small objects lodged in between your tire treads and remove them to prevent punctures and other types of damage.

  1. Inspect for cracks and other types of tire damage.

While on the road, you may not notice that your tires are getting damaged. Regular maintenance should give you the chance to check your tire walls for punctures, cracks, and holes that could lead to serious accidents if not fixed right away after spotting them. Decide whether to repair or replace the tires depending on the damage.

 

Time to Let Go of Your Ancient Auto

If your tires are the least of your car woes and fixing all the major issues facing your ride would not be worth the effort and money you’d spend, then your only option is to dispose of it in the best possible way.

We at Goodwill Car Donations offer you a way to do just that. All you need to do is hand over that vehicle to us. We will use your donation to uplift the lives of the disadvantaged residents of your community while giving you the full benefits of making a charitable contribution.

Our team will auction off your donated car, with the proceeds going to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged Americans

— those who lack education, job experience, or essential skills, as well as those who are burdened with disabilities and other limiting personal issues, such as being welfare-dependent and having past prison records.

Your local Good organizations use the funding they get from us to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, family support, educational services, financial assistance, and many other essential support services.

As a Goodwill donor, you’ll have the privilege of enjoying our fast and free towing service wherever you are in the country.

Your gift will also entitle you to claim the highest possible tax deduction in the next tax season.

However, the best part about making a charitable contribution to us is the priceless satisfaction you’ll feel, knowing that your donation will be used to improve the lives of the underprivileged people in your community and empower them to succeed in life.

We accept nearly all vehicle types, including those that are no longer in good condition.

To get to know our quick and convenient donation process, check out our FAQs page. If you have questions or concerns, tell us about them here. We will respond to you within 24 hours. You may also give us a call through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. We’d be happy to hear from you.

A Gray Vintage Car Parked on the Street | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Volker Thimm under Pexels License

Start Changing Lives Today!

Use your unwanted vehicle to transform the lives of disadvantaged individuals in your area. Your car donation can help create new jobs and break the barriers to success and progress in your community. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


Car Dealership Admin Fees Explained

How Dealerships Justify the Admin Fee | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Antoni Shkraba under Pexels License

What Do These Additional Fees Cover?

When you purchase a car from a dealership, one thing that might raise your eyebrows is the admin fee included in the listed price of the vehicle. It may have a different name like a service fee or documentation fee.

Dealerships charge this fee to their customers to account for the expenses they incurred in acquiring the vehicles they’re selling.

How Dealerships Justify the Admin Fee

Admin fees are charges added by dealerships to the prices of the vehicles they’re selling to cover the costs of paperwork and administrative tasks related to the acquisition of those vehicles. The fee varies from one dealership to another and may range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

The admin fee is typically charged in addition to the actual price of the car, and it’s often non-negotiable. Some dealerships justify the fee as covering the expenses they paid in preparing documents for vehicle titles and registration, processing loan paperwork, and filing state-required forms. The fee also covers the cost of hiring and training their employees to handle the paperwork, as well as the cost of software and equipment needed to process it all.

The admin fee also includes the costs incurred by the dealerships in complying with federal and state laws. The laws include those related to safety concerns, anti-theft mechanisms, vehicle history checks, certifications, notifications, and consumer protection.

What You Can Do As a Car Buyer

Some car buyers argue that this fee is just another way for dealerships to jack up their profits.

However, while it may seem like an unnecessary expense on the part of car buyers, the admin fee is a legitimate cost incurred by the dealership, and it is legal in most states. Nevertheless, some states have placed limits on the amount that dealerships can charge for this fee, while others do not regulate it at all.

It’s important to note, however, that not all dealerships charge an admin fee, and those that do may be willing to negotiate or waive it, especially if the customer is a repeat buyer or is purchasing a high-end vehicle.

If you’re planning to purchase a car from a dealership, it’s important to carefully review the documentation and pricing to understand any additional fees that may be charged, including the admin fee. You may want to ask the dealership to explain the specific costs associated with the admin fee and determine if it’s negotiable or not.

 

What’s the Best Way to Dispose of Your Unwanted Car?

If you are shopping around for a new car because your old one has already given up on you and having it fixed may not guarantee your safety anymore, your only option is to dispose of that clunker. Don’t worry, you can still put it to good use by donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We will use your vehicle to uplift the lives of the struggling disadvantaged residents of your community while giving you all the rewards you deserve for your participation in our donation program.

Our team will put your car up for auction and turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged U.S. citizens — 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 a welfare mindset.

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

Expect to be sufficiently rewarded for your charitable contribution. We’ll pick up and tow your vehicle for free anywhere in the United States. Your donation will also entitle you to claim 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.

We accept almost all types of vehicles, including those that are no longer in good condition

To find out the details of our vehicle donation process, and other relevant information, visit our FAQs page. Questions? Call us at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.

A Brown Vintage Car beside a Building | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Anna Ilina under Pexels License

Make a Difference Today!

Reach out to the disadvantaged men and women in your community. Your car donation will make a difference in their lives. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


How to Check Tire Tread

Ways to Check Your Tire Treads | Breast Cancer Car Donations Photo by Benjamin Brunner under Unsplash License

Stay Safe by Keeping a Close Eye on Your Tires’ Health!

If safe driving is your primordial concern, you wouldn’t want to take for granted the health of your tires. One of the best ways to take care of them is to regularly monitor their treads. These are the grooves running along the sides of your tires that get into contact with the ground.

The raised portion of a tire’s tread prevents a car from hydroplaning by expelling water away from the tire. As your tires wear, the grooves become shallower, leading to loss of traction on the road. If left unaddressed, the bald rubber will cause your braking and steering system to work doubly hard, making your vehicle unsafe to drive. When the tire depth reaches 2/32 inches, it increases your chances of losing control of your vehicle in difficult weather conditions, such as snow and rain.

Ways to Check Your Tire Treads

Automotive experts recommend checking tire tread depth every 3,000 miles or each time you replace your winter or summer tires. Your tires are good if their treads are 4/32 inches deep or deeper. However, you’ll want to replace them if their tread depth reaches 3/32 inches. You’ll need to replace them as soon as possible if their tread depth is reduced to 2/32 inches or less.

To help you maintain your tires’ health, you’ll need to regularly check your tire treads. Goodwill Car Donations shares how you can measure those treads even without using a gauge.

  • The Penny Test

Grab a penny and insert it into the tire’s tread groove with the head of Abraham Lincoln going in first. If the top of his head hides in the groove, the tread of your tire is likely 4/32 inches and you won’t need to replace it anytime soon.

However, if you can see all of Lincoln’s head after thrusting the penny into the groove, it means that your tire is already unsafe to use because its tread depth is likely below 2/32 inches. In this case, tire replacement is a must.

  • The Quarter Test

Insert a quarter into your tire’s tread groove with George Washington’s head facing toward the tire’s ribs. If the tread covers Washington’s head, the tread is likely 4/32 inches deep and the tire is safe to use. However, if the quarter shows Washington’s head, you’ll want to replace your tire because this means its tread only has no more than 2/32 inches of depth.

  • Tread Wear Indicators

Tires have built-in tire tread indicators or wear gauges molded into them. If you don’t have any penny or quarter with you, look for the initials TWI (Tire Wear Indicator) on the tire tread’s shoulder. You should see around six bars throughout the tread ribs. You’ll need to replace your tire if the bars are visibly flushed with the adjacent ribs because its tread depth is likely at less than 2/32 inches.

The Best Thing You Can Do with an Unwanted Vehicle

If your car has issues far worse than having unsafe tires with shallow treads, if having it repaired would cost you an arm and a leg, consider giving it a fitting retirement by donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll turn your clunker into a beacon of hope for the underprivileged folks in your community.

We will auction off your donated vehicle and use the proceeds to help finance the life enhancement and community improvement programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged Americans — those who are saddled with disabilities, lack of education, essential skills, or job experience, as well as other limiting personal issues, such as being welfare-dependent or having past prison records.

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job and skills training, vocational services, scholarships, financial aid, disability benefits, family support, and many other essential 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. Plus, we’ll provide you with our free pickup and towing service at a date and place most convenient to you. Take note that we can collect your donation anywhere in the country.

Best of all, you’ll find utmost satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community when once-idle residents attain financial stability and live productive and fulfilling lives.

We accept nearly all vehicle types, even those that are no longer running or working properly.

For information about our quick and easy vehicle donation process and other details, 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 or contact us here.

Extend a Helping Hand to the Needy | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Andrea Piacquadio under Pexels License

Extend a Helping Hand to the Needy Today!

Your donation will surely matter to those who have less in life. We’ll turn your unwanted vehicle into a powerful tool for transforming their lives. Donate it now by calling Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or filling out our secure online donation form.


How to Get Rid of a Musty Car Smell

Car Vacuum Cleaner | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Khunkorn Laowisit under Pexels License

Make Your Vehicle Mold and Mildew-Free!

What’s not to love about that “new car” smell? The moment you sit behind the wheel and take a whiff of new-car ownership, you feel a sense of pride and accomplishment unlike any other. This fragrance reminds you of good things.

However, this fresh new scent doesn’t last forever. When it fades away over time, a musty car smell may replace it.

Getting Rid of a Musty Car Smell: A Step-by-Step Guide

Moisture and humidity can cause mold and mildew to develop and grow in car seats and evaporators, creating a musty car smell. Since mold and mildew are living organisms, the best way to get rid of a musty car smell is to stop their growth. Be glad to know that you have what it takes to resolve this issue. Goodwill Car Donations shares this step-by-step guide on how to eliminate this unpleasant odor.

  1. Remove visible signs of mold and mildew.

Inspect your vehicle’s interior and look for visible signs of mold and microbial growth in the car seats or floor. Since mold can also grow on food, you’ll want to check for crumbs or leftover food under the seats and promptly remove them.

  1. Steam-clean your seats and floor.

Mold can’t survive in high temperatures. For this reason, steam-cleaning your vehicle’s interior surfaces is your best bet in removing any growing mold in your car. While at it, pay special attention to the seats and the car floor’s covering, too.

  1. Use a vinegar and water mixture.

If you’re not a fan of using bleach, ammonia, or hydrogen peroxide in eliminating mold and mildew, a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and water will do the trick. To create the mixture, mix one part water and one part vinegar in a spray bottle.

Spray the mixture into the moldy area and leave it to dry for at least an hour. Be sure to open the windows while you wait. Grab a damp cloth and wipe the surfaces after an hour has passed.

  1. Locate the plenum and spray disinfectant.

An AC disinfectant will help get rid of the musty smell if it’s coming from your air conditioning system. To do this, turn on your car’s fan and set it to a low setting.

Next, spray the disinfectant into your vehicle’s climate system’s air intake called the plenum. You can find the plenum between the hood and the front windshield. Let the air out of the car by keeping the windows open while you’re disinfecting the plenum.

  1. Make your vehicle unwelcomed to mold and mildew.

You can prevent future mold and microbial growth by not leaving anything wet in your vehicle, especially in summer. Moreover, keeping your windows rolled up when storing your car keeps the moisture out of the vehicle.

Looking for the Best Way to Get Rid of Your Clunker?

Getting rid of a musty car smell is easy, but driving a creaking old car that has seen better days is not so easy. If you think its useful days are over, give it a fitting retirement by donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use it to positively transform the lives of the struggling disadvantaged people in your local community.

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

Your local Goodwill organizations use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job and skills training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and many other essential support services. These services will enable the underprivileged residents of your community to eventually attain financial stability and live productive and fulfilling lives.

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 towing service at a date and place most convenient to you anywhere in the country.

Your gift will also allow you to savor the satisfaction of serving your community by helping empower your less fortunate neighbors.

We accept nearly all vehicle types, even those that are no longer working.

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, call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.

Gray Volkswagen Beetle Parking Near Tree | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Caleb Oquendo under Pexels License

Make a Difference Today!

Give your old and unwanted vehicle a new and worthy purpose today. Your car donation can make you a hero to the disadvantaged residents of your community. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!

 


6 Summer Car Safety Tips for Kids

A Boy Sitting in a Car Looking Over His Shoulder | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by RDNE Stock project under Pexels License

Keep Your Young Ones Safe with These 6 Tips!

Summer means having fun on family road trips under the blazing sun. However, these excursions come with safety hazards. Perhaps you’re concerned about traveling for long periods with your little ones. Be glad to know, however, that you can do a few things to get you through any long drive.

Before hitting the road and heading out on your next summer adventure, you’ll want to ensure car safety for your kids. To help you get started, Goodwill Car Donations has pulled together these tips:

  1. Have your car seats checked.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than half of all car seats in the United States are installed incorrectly. One way to ensure correct car seat installation is to have it checked by your local police or fire department. Not only will they position your car seats correctly, but they’ll also teach you how to do so without charge.

  1. Keep the windows locked.

Smaller kids are no match for power windows. Many get treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries related to power windows. They include those who have accidentally been strangled and maimed by these windows.

Children can inadvertently press down on a power window switch and injure themselves. Ensure their safety by locking all the windows, strapping your kids in their car seats correctly, and ensuring they won’t be able to reach the switches.

  1. Don’t leave kids in a hot car.

Getting into a scorching car can be uncomfortable, especially for kids. Moreover, a hot car increases their risk of experiencing heat stroke.

To avoid this, cool your car before securing your little ones in their seats. Crank the AC and open the windows to push the hot air out. Once it’s cool, you can close the windows and turn on your AC. Make sure to keep the car cool throughout the trip.

  1. Check your tires.

Tire blowouts are common in summer because of the heat and the heavy loads in cars during road trips. If you’re planning a trip with your family this summer, you’ll want to avoid a tire blowout by inspecting your tires to make sure they’re not overinflated or underinflated.

  1. Never leave your kids in the car alone.

No matter how quick your trip is to the grocery or anywhere else, you shouldn’t leave your kids alone inside the car. You don’t know what could happen while you’re away.

  1. Keep your car doors locked.

Even with your car safely parked in the garage, you’ll still want to keep your car doors locked. Otherwise, your kids could accidentally lock themselves inside without you noticing it.

Stop Driving an Unsafe Car! Give It a New and Worthy Purpose!

Is your over-a-decade-old car no longer safe to drive? Give it a fitting retirement by giving it a new and worthy purpose. You can do that when you donate it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use your donation to empower the struggling disadvantaged residents of your community so they can find opportunities to live productive and fulfilling lives.

We’ll have your vehicle auctioned off, with the proceeds going straight to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping uplift the lives of disadvantaged Americans — those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as being welfare-dependent and having past prison records.

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

Taking part in our donation program won’t require you to leave the comfort of your home or pay for the towing of your vehicle. We’ll send out a licensed towing company to pick up your vehicle at no cost to you and wherever you’re located in the country.

Plus, we’ll have the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your vehicle delivered to your doorstep days after we get it sold. With this receipt, you can claim the maximum tax deduction for your charitable contribution in the next tax season.

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in helping create new jobs for the benefit of all in your community.

We accept nearly all vehicle types, whether they’re still in good condition or no longer.

You can learn more about how everything works in our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, by checking out our FAQs page. If you have questions, call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or write to us here.

Yellow Volkswagen Beetle Parked on Roadside | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Kleber costa under Pexels License

Do a Good Deed Today!

With a simple car donation, you can do a good deed that will uplift the lives of the disadvantaged men and women in your community. Team up with us at Goodwill Car Donations and let’s turn your vehicle into a powerful tool for transforming lives. Call us at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


How to Choose the Best Vehicle for You

Tips to Pick the Car That Matches You Perfectly | Breast Cancer Car Donations Photo by frank mckenna under Unsplash License

5 Practical Tips to Pick the Car That Matches You Perfectly

Finding a car that suits your needs and lifestyle poses a tricky challenge. It’s up to you to manage your expectations based on your current financial situation, considering that you’ll be paying for the ongoing costs of the vehicle later on.

The good news is, whether you are looking for a brand-new ride or a secondhand gem, there is always a way to find the car that will meet your requirements. All it takes is patience, determination, and a practical mindset.

Goodwill Car Donations shares these top tips for finding your perfect ride:

  1. Assess your needs.

One sure thing that can help you decide on the perfect car is its purpose. What will it be used for? Will you drive it long distances? What will be the road conditions? How many passengers will be using the car? After answering these questions, you will be able to visualize the car features that match your expectations.

  1. Determine your budget.

The budget plays an important factor in making your decision. Will you be taking out auto financing or will you be paying outright? Do you have funds for a brand-new ride or should you opt for a used vehicle instead? Select what you can afford based on these questions.

  1. Decide to buy or lease.

If you don’t want the responsibility of owning a car outright, you can opt for a lease where you can drive a more expensive vehicle at less cost. When you own a car, though, you can sell it whenever you want and you are not constrained by penalties or contracts.

  1. Make room for options.

Even if you have your mind set on a specific make and model, keep an open mind for alternatives. When you review their features and pricing, you may be surprised to discover a better value for your buck.

  1. Do a test drive.

You wouldn’t know how it feels to drive a certain car model unless you do a test run. Doing this might also alert you to potential red flags early on. A good test drive can make it easier and quicker for you to decide on the vehicle that truly suits your needs and lifestyle.

 

Thinking How Best You Can Dispose of Your Old Ride?

If you are getting ready to upgrade your old car to a better ride, you’re probably thinking about how you can dispose of the former in the best possible way. Consider our suggestion: Donate it to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

When you do that, you’ll give your no longer-needed car a new and worthy purpose while allowing you to enjoy the full benefits of making a charitable donation. We will use your vehicle to improve the living conditions of the disadvantaged people in your community.

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

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

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

More importantly, your act of kindness will make you feel satisfied and proud that you’re doing something that will bring hope to the underprivileged residents of your community.

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

Find out how quick and easy it is to donate a vehicle to us and other important details about our vehicle donation program by checking out our FAQs page. Should you have any questions or concerns, you may reach us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also send us a message here.

Get This Win-Win Solution Today | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Evgeny Bogatov under Pexels License

Get This Win-Win Solution Today!

Your car donation is a truly win-win solution: You get to help ease the burdens of those folks in your community who are facing tough challenges in life while you reap the benefits of your charitable act. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


How to Diagnose a Bad A/C Condenser

Car AC | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Philipp Katzenberger under Unsplash License

Watch Out for These 6 Warning Signs!

The A/C condenser is a critical component of a vehicle’s air conditioning system. It uses refrigerants to collect heat, converts the heat into gas, and releases it as cool air inside the cabin.

Contrary to popular belief, an A/C condenser isn’t a single component. It has several parts, including a circuit board, motor, compressor, coils, and fins.

A factory defect on the condenser itself, faulty electrical wiring, or wear and tear can cause any of these parts to fail. Leaving them unaddressed can lead to costly repairs. For this reason, you need to watch out for signs of a bad A/C condenser.

Indicators of a Faulty A/C Condenser

The last thing you need is a bad A/C condenser in the summer. Unless it’s okay for you to arrive at work drenched in sweat, you’ll want to have the problem diagnosed and fixed. Goodwill Car Donations has pulled together the following signs you need to watch out for:

  1. Lukewarm air

Something’s wrong with your A/C condenser if you feel nothing but lukewarm air blowing out of the vents. Leaks, missing fins, or blockage can cause this problem.

  1. Burning smell

A burning smell each time you turn on your car’s A/C is another symptom of a bad condenser. If the condenser fails to release hot air outside your vehicle, heat builds up inside it, eventually burning its internal components and producing a burning smell.

  1. Refrigerant leaks

The pressure inside the condenser increases as it compresses the refrigerant liquid, resulting in leakage. A leak that looks like oil residue indicates a faulty condenser. As the liquid seeps out, your freon levels decrease, stopping your air conditioning system from producing cold air.

  1. Weird noises

Do you hear grinding or rattling sounds when you turn on your car’s A/C? These unusual sounds can stem from various causes, including a faulty condenser. Ask your mechanic to check this out.

  1. Overheating even while on idle

The condenser is responsible for removing heat from your car. If you’re dealing with a faulty one, heat could get trapped in the condenser and cause significant damage to its components. When this happens, your car could overheat even while idle.

  1. Warning signs on your dashboard

Check your condenser if your A/C light turns on. If you’re unsure what this warning light looks like, consult your vehicle’s user manual or have your mechanic take a look at it.

Do You Have a Car Whose Repairs Would Cost You a Fortune?

If you have a car with a faulty A/C condenser and a lot of other issues whose repairs would break the bank, consider giving it up. You can still put that auto to good use though by donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll turn it into a powerful tool for transforming the lives of the underprivileged folks in your local community.

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

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

As a Goodwill donor, you’ll have the privilege of enjoying our fast and free towing service wherever you are in the country.

Your gift will also entitle you to claim the highest possible tax deduction in the next tax season.

However, the best part about making a charitable contribution to us is the priceless satisfaction you’ll feel, knowing that your donation will be used to uplift the lives of the less fortunate people in your community and empower them to succeed in life.

We accept nearly all vehicle types, including those that are no longer in good condition.

To get to know our quick and convenient donation process, check out our FAQs page. If you have questions or concerns, tell us about them here. We will respond to you within 24 hours. You may also give us a call through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. We’d be happy to hear from you.

A Red Vintage Car Parked on the Street | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Ivo Mukkulainen under Pexels License

Start Changing Lives Today!

Now’s the best time to make a difference in your community. Your car donation can help create new jobs and break the barriers to success for your disadvantaged neighbors. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


How to Choose the Right Coolant for Your Car

Close-up of Mechanic Holding the Engine | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Slava MKRVSKY under Pexels License

Make the Right Choice with These 4 Tips!

Did you know that your car engine’s coolant is as vital as oil? This fluid keeps your engine from overheating and freezing in extreme temperatures by raising your cooling system’s boiling point during summer and lowering its freezing point in winter. In addition, your coolant protects your engine and cooling system components against corrosion.

However, your coolant, like your engine oil and brake fluid, degrades over time. Since it gradually loses its effectiveness as the chemicals in it break down, you’ll need to change it regularly to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Without regular coolant flushes, you’ll risk causing damage to your cooling system.

Anti-freezes or coolants come in different types: IAT, HOAT, and OAT. While different vehicles may require different coolants, each needs a coolant flush every two years or every 30,000 miles.

However, you must choose the right coolant for your vehicle to avoid corrosion and damage to your water pump, radiator, radiator hoses, and cylinder gasket.

Here’s How to Make the Right Coolant Choice

You’ll want to choose the right coolant to keep your car in tip-top shape. Goodwill Car Donations shares these tips to help you make the right choice.

  1. Use your car’s information.

The make and model of your car and its place of manufacture will help you determine the type of coolant it needs. For example, phosphate-based anti-freeze or coolants are usually formulated for Japanese and Korean cars, while European cars typically use silicate-based anti-freeze.

The manufacturing year will also determine the right coolant for your car. For example, a Ford manufactured after 1997 may require an organic anti-freeze, while those built before 1997 may use an inorganic anti-freeze coolant.

  1. Check the color of the coolant.

Coolants come in different colors. For instance, HOAT coolants are typically turquoise, OAT coolants are orange, and IAT coolants are green. If you’re unsure of the type of coolant you need, pop the hood and check the color of the coolant you’re using. Since coolants typically turn brown over time, you need to check yours before it changes color.

  1. Check your car’s user manual.

If you don’t know what coolant your car uses, consult your car’s user manual. It will tell you what type of coolant is best for your vehicle.

  1. Go to the dealership.

Dealerships usually have coolants on display specific to the make and model of the cars they sell. If you didn’t get to check the color of your coolant before, and the color now appears brown, head to the dealership.

 

Turn Your Beater into a Life-Changer This Way!

If you’re looking to find the best way to dispose of an unwanted vehicle, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use it to provide the disadvantaged people in your local community with the opportunities they need to gain financial independence.

We’ll sell your auto through an auction to raise funds for the life-enhancement programs and services being provided by the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged Americans — those who are burdened with disabilities, those who lack education, job experience, or essential skills, as well as those who have other limiting personal issues, such as being welfare-dependent or having past prison records.

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

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

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

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

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

Car Parked Under the Tree | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Danielle Miteen under Pexels License

Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community?

You’ll become the champion of the disadvantaged folks in your community when you donate a vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations. Call us at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!