Can I Donate A Car That Doesn’t Run?
Here, you’ll discover just how easy it is to donate a car that no longer runs and still create a meaningful impact. Instead of letting an old, unused vehicle take up space, you can clear your driveway, avoid costly towing fees and turn that vehicle into something valuable for others. Goodwill Car Donations accepts most vehicles, running or not, and offers free pickup to make the experience completely stress-free for you. Once accepted, your vehicle is auctioned, and even non-working ones can be valuable for their usable parts. In return, you receive a tax deduction and the satisfaction of supporting local, mission-driven programs that change lives in your community. If your vehicle is in poor condition, you can provide details or photos ahead of time to confirm it’s eligible. If one group can’t take it, another might, increasing your chances of making a successful donation. With this simple, thoughtful process, you can move forward confidently, knowing your old vehicle helps others while making things easier for you.
So… can I donate a vehicle that doesn’t run?
Yes! We accept most vehicles, even those that no longer run. We’ll pick up your non-working automobile for free, help you qualify for a tax deduction and ensure the proceeds from your vehicle’s resale go directly to our mission-driven programs. It’s a smart, stress-free way to make a meaningful impact.
How Do I Donate a Car That Doesn’t Run?
You’ve tried everything, but your car isn’t coming back to life. Maybe the repairs are too expensive or simply not worth the effort.
So what now? Letting the car sit in your garage or driveway to collect rust isn’t ideal and paying to tow it to a junkyard doesn’t feel worth it either. Selling a motor vehicle that doesn’t run? Nearly impossible.
Here’s a better option: donate your non-running car to charity. Unless your car is completely stripped down to the frame, it likely still holds value. When you donate to Goodwill Car Donations, you free yourself from a burden and earn a tax deduction.
We’ll pick up your vehicle at no cost, and auction it, even if it doesn’t run. Buyers often want parts like doors, dashboards or gear knobs. The money raised supports local community programs that provide training, jobs and essential services.
While most charities accept non-working cars, extremely damaged ones may be declined. To be sure, send photos or a description in advance. If one group can’t accept it, another might.
Have a car that won’t start? Contact Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll take care of the logistics, and your donation will help people in need through our impactful programs.
Why Do Charities Accept Cars That Don’t Run?
Charities accept non-running cars because they can still hold value even when they aren’t drivable. While your vehicle might not work, it can still be sold at auction for parts, metal or refurbishing. The proceeds then support the charity’s mission. For organizations like Goodwill, these donations are a key source of funding for employment training, education and job placement programs. Accepting non-working vehicles into our system also makes it easier for more people to donate, expanding the impact of charitable giving. Every donation can contribute to real change.
How Do Charities Use Money from Non-Running Car Donations?
Once your donated vehicle is sold (even if only for parts), the funds go directly to programs that benefit the community. For example, Goodwill uses the money to support local job training, skills development, education and employment support services. These programs help individuals facing barriers to employment, such as those with disabilities, limited job history or financial hardships, gaining the tools they need to become self-sufficient. In this way, your donation becomes an investment in someone else’s future.
What Kinds of Non-Running Vehicles Can Still Be Donated?
You can donate far more than just cars. Most charities accept a wide variety of vehicles in non-working condition, including:
- Trucks
- SUVs
- Sedans
- Vans
- Motorcycles
- RVs and campers
- Boats and jet skis
- Snowmobiles
- Golf carts and riding mowers
- Farm equipment
- Trailers
- Noncommercial airplanes
If you’re unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, just contact the charity directly. They can confirm based on condition, location and towing feasibility.
How Does Donating a Car Compare to Selling or Scrapping It?
Donating a non-running car offers several advantages over selling or scrapping:
- Selling a broken vehicle often involves time, ads, negotiations and repairs, sometimes with no guaranteed buyer.
- Scrapping might get you minimal value, and you could be responsible for towing or disposal costs.
- Donating is fast, free and simple. The charity picks up the vehicle, handles the paperwork and gives you a tax-deductible receipt. Plus, your gift supports a worthy cause.
For many people, donating is the most convenient and meaningful option.
What Are the Tax Benefits of Donating a Non-Running Car?
When you donate to a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, your vehicle donation is typically tax-deductible. The amount you can deduct depends on how much the car sells for at auction:
- If it sells for more than $500, you can deduct the sale price.
- If it sells for $500 or less, you can deduct either the sale price or the car’s fair market value (whichever is lower).
You’ll receive a written receipt to use when itemizing deductions on your federal tax return. Consult a tax professional for guidance on maximizing your deduction.
How Does Donating a Car That Doesn’t Run Help Local Communities?
Donating your non-working vehicle helps fund vital local services. In the case of Goodwill, your donation supports job readiness, career coaching and community-based employment programs. These services are designed to lift people out of poverty and into meaningful work. While your old car may no longer serve you, it becomes a powerful tool for change in your neighborhood by creating jobs, building skills and changing lives.
Ready to Donate Your Non-Working Car Today?
We make it easy to donate a vehicle that no longer runs. Just tell us about the car, who you are and where it’s located and we’ll handle the rest. A car that doesn’t work can be a big burden, but Goodwill Car Donations can lift that off your shoulders and even reward you with a tax deduction. Call us today and see how simple it is to make a difference.
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
Last Updated: September 25th, 2025