Do I Need Snow Tires?

Jeep in Winter | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi under Pexels License

Your Regular Tires Aren’t Built Specifically for Winter

Regular or all-season tires are standard equipment installed on your vehicle. They’re quiet, comfortable, have decent tread life, and can be used for different road conditions. They’re called all-season tires because they’re built for year-round performance regardless of the season. They’re designed to offer the combined benefits of both summer and winter tires.

Unfortunately, however, all-season tires have to compromise their winter capabilities to perform well in other conditions. For the winter season, they’re only suited for light winter driving. They won’t be able to handle serious winter woes such as heavy snowfall, black ice, or ice-covered roads.

The Benefits of Snow Tires

Snow tires, also called winter tires, are designed for dealing with snow, ice, and cold temperatures. Snow tires have special rubber compounds and tread designs that give you increased grip, traction, and handling during extreme winter weather conditions. They perform significantly better than all-season tires on roads covered with snow and ice, giving you that extra safety net when driving during winter.

Do You Need to Buy Snow Tires for Winter Driving?

A set of new tires isn’t cheap, so deciding whether you’re going to buy snow tires or not isn’t a simple decision. A good set of snow tires will likely cost you up to $1,000, which makes them an expensive purchase. However, tires are responsible for maintaining your vehicle’s contact with the ground, which makes them one of the most critical components of your car.

The thought of buying an extra set of tires that you’ll probably be using for only a couple of months may be overwhelming, but it can also be well worth it if safety is your priority. If you live in areas where there’s heavy snow and you’re surrounded by frozen roads, snow tires are an investment that you won’t regret.

Also, since you’ll only be using them for three to four months every year, it’ll probably take at least eight years before your snow tires get worn down.

Reach Out to Disadvantaged Folks This Winter

Winter is a dreadful season for those living in poverty. They include your disadvantaged neighbors who don’t enjoy the comfort of a warm home and a stable job. They also include those struggling with life-limiting disabilities and other disadvantages. Without a helping hand to give them a second chance in life, all they can do is hope that someday things will eventually get better.

If you’ve got a heart that’s willing to help, reach out to your struggling neighbors this winter by partnering with us at Goodwill Car Donations. All you have to do is donate to us any vehicle you no longer need or use.

We’ll sell your vehicle through an auction to generate funds for the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged individuals, providing them with job and skills training, vocational services, scholarships, financial aid, mentoring and internship assistance, disability benefits, family support, and other types of support services. All these services are meant to empower deserving men and women to harness their full potential so they can live productive and fulfilling lives.

You won’t go unrewarded for your good deed. Your charitable contribution will entitle you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. You’ll also benefit from the free vehicle pickup and towing service that we will provide you anywhere in the United States.

Your act of charity will also 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.

Nearly all vehicle types can be donated to us, including damaged or non-working vehicles.

For more information about our quick and easy donation process, visit our FAQs page. You can also call us 24/7 through our hotline at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.

Be a Hero to Your Impoverished Neighbors Today!

Red Suv on Snow Covered Ground | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Brett Sayles under Pexels License

Team up with us at Goodwill Car Donations and be a hero to the less fortunate residents of your community. Your car donation can provide them with the opportunities they need to build a better life. Call us at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


When Do You Need to Replace Your Vehicle’s Tires?

Man Changing a Car Tire | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Andrea Piacquadio under Pexels License

Check If Your Tires Are Still Up to Snuff!

Since your tires connect your car to the road, they’re a critical part of your vehicle’s general maintenance. For this reason, you should check them once in a while to make sure they’re not losing traction or slackening in their performance. Unfortunately, not every motorist knows when they need to get a new set of tires.

Top 4 Signs You Need to Replace Your Vehicle’s Tires

Although you wouldn’t know how long your tires would last, a combination of certain factors can help you determine their approximate lifespan and mileage. These factors include the tires’ design, your driving habits, the care you put into those tires, as well as the weather and road conditions. To make it easier for you, Goodwill Car Donations has compiled these tell-tale signs that you need to replace your tires.

  1. Your tire tread is becoming thin.

The part of the tire that makes contact with the road is called the tire tread. Since it’s made from rubber, it can start to deteriorate and become thin. To determine if your tires are no longer roadworthy, you only have to take a look at the wear indicator bars. These are small, raised bars found within the grooves of your tires between the tread markings. They are placed around the tire at different points to measure how evenly your tread is being worn down.

You’ll have to replace your tires right away if their treads have already reached the tire wear bars. Otherwise, you’ll run the risk of driving a vehicle with tires that have poor water dispersing and handling capabilities.

  1. Your tires are old.

Under normal use, tires usually last from three to six years. To determine the age of your tire, you need to check its production year, which you can find on its sidewall. In most cases, the production year is denoted by four numbers.

However, if your tire’s manufacturers added letters and digits to the production year, all you have to do is check the last four digits. These digits can tell you the year and week of that year the tires were manufactured.

When a tire has undergone numerous heat cycles in its lifetime, its rubber compound gradually deteriorates until it gives out. When this happens, the tire tread shows signs of cracking and chunking, which indicates that the tire needs to be replaced.

  1. Your tires are damaged.

Driving a vehicle with compromised tires will not only cost you a fortune in repairs, but it will also put your safety at risk. Once you notice signs of uneven wear or cracks on your tires, this means that they’re not properly aligned or that they’re on their way out.

  1. You feel unusual vibrations.

Do you feel vibrations while driving? Do these vibrations increase in strength when you drive faster? If they do, chances are your tires are uneven or unbalanced. This means you need to replace them as soon as possible.

Looking for the Best Way to Dispose of Your Old Car?

If having worn-out tires is just one of the many problems plaguing your old and outdated car, perhaps it’s time to retire it. If you’re looking for the best way to dispose of it right away, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

We’ll have your vehicle auctioned off, with the proceeds used to support the life-enhancement programs and services being delivered by 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 and other barriers to opportunities that prevent them from living productive lives.

Your auto donation will help them harness their full potential, thus transforming their lives. Your local Goodwill organizations will use the funding to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

Donating to us is easy and convenient. You’ll be doing it in the comfort of your home.

Making a Goodwill car donation means a hassle-free experience that’s free of paperwork, complicated steps, and unnecessary requirements.

Moreover, your charitable contribution will entitle you to receive surprisingly useful perks, such as getting our free towing service and the maximum tax deduction that you can claim in the next tax season.

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community when once idle members attain financial stability, thanks to your donation.

We accept a wide range of vehicle types. Feel free to hand over your spare vehicle to us regardless of its age or condition. We even take vehicles that don’t run or start anymore.

If you’re interested to know more about our vehicle donation program and the rewards awaiting you, head over to our FAQs page. You can also give us a ring at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here for any concerns or questions that you may have.

White BMW | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Lance Anderson under Unsplash License

Help Build a Brighter Future for Your Community Today!

When you donate an unwanted car to us, you’ll help build a brighter future for your disadvantaged neighbors and your community itself. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


Practical Tips to Avoid Car Theft

Steering wheel with a lock | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Dalton Douglas under Pexels License

How to Make Your Vehicle Less Appealing for Car Thieves

Are you aware that car thieves and joyriders are getting smarter and savvier these days? After stealing cars with a bunch of smart keys, they avoid detection by switching vehicle identification numbers.

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

9 Things You Can Do to Avoid Car Theft

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

  1. Keep your doors locked.

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

  1. Keep your windows closed.

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

  1. Avoid leaving your keys in the ignition.

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

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

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

  1. Avoid parking in poorly lit areas.

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

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

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

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

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

  1. Use a vehicle immobilizer system.

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

  1. Install a vehicle recovery system.

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

 

Looking for the Best Way to Dispose of an Unwanted Car?

If your problem is not how to avoid car theft but how to easily and quickly dispose of an old car that you no longer need, we at Goodwill Car Donations are here to serve you. With just one call to us, we will have your vehicle hauled off wherever you had it parked or stored anywhere in the country. Moreover, we will provide you with our professional pickup and towing service at zero cost and at a time and date most convenient to you.

That’s not all. Your charitable contribution will also entitle you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

Your donation will likewise allow you to experience the joy of giving since we will use your gift to uplift the lives of the disadvantaged men and women in your community. These are the folks who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other barriers to a poverty-free life.

We’ll have your car auctioned off, with the proceeds used to help fund the job and livelihood programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your local area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans, providing them with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical support services.

These services are meant to empower the less fortunate folks in your community, so they’ll be able to harness their full potential to become productive and financially stable members of your community.

You can donate almost any type of vehicle. In most cases, we accept even vehicles that are no longer in good running condition.

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

Let’s Transform Lives Together!

People in the Community | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Papaioannou Kostas under Unsplash License

With our combined efforts, we can make a massive impact on the lives of the disadvantaged people in your community. Donate your vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations by filling out our secure online donation form or by calling us at 866-233-8586 now!


How to Get Your Car Winter-Ready

Winterizing Your Car | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Daniel Foster unter Unsplash License

Take Action Before the Weather Starts to Get Chilly!

Are you constantly having trouble getting your car up and running during the cold months? Does it annoy you when your vehicle stalls, especially when you need it to run flawlessly? While living in a cold-weather area allows you to experience a beautiful winter wonderland, the snow doesn’t set the scene for fun driving conditions.

Before the weather starts getting chilly, it’s time to take action. After all, you’d want to make sure that your trusty steed doesn’t give up on you.

3 Tips for Winterizing Your Car

Even if your place doesn’t get inches of regular snowfall each year, cold temperatures can have a drastic impact on your car. Now that winter is just around the corner, how can you guarantee that your set of wheels won’t fail you when you’re in the middle of nowhere? Goodwill Car Donations has put together these tips to help you winterize your car.

  1. Get better snow visibility.

Road accidents are likely to happen at this time of the year. With ice causing the roads to become slippery, drivers often find their steering wheels harder to control. It gets worse if visibility is poor due to sleet and snow.

As a safety precaution, ensure all your car lights are in good working condition. This covers the front and rear lights. If they’re foggy or cracked, your electrical connections will freeze up.

  1. Keep the exterior protected.

Although most auto problems have something to do with the car’s interior components such as the engine and battery, you should not overlook your car’s exterior. Many vehicle owners tend to forget to give some much-needed TLC to their car’s hinges, locks, door jambs, latches, window tracks, and weather stripping.

Unless you’re willing to run the risk of dealing with minor annoyances, be sure to lubricate these components before the temperature drops. Besides preventing corrosion and damage to the cables, proper lubrication also prevents you from getting locked out of your car. If you can’t find dry lubricant, use silicone spray or lithium grease.

  1. A winter kit makes a good car addition.

When you can’t avoid driving in severe winter weather, you’d want to have a winter car emergency kit stashed in your car. You never know when you may encounter impassable roads or extremely cold temperatures while you’re driving to your destination.

Before venturing out into the cold, be sure that your kit has a candle-powered heater to power your car in case you run out of gas. Don’t forget to include a portable air compressor, small shovel, car charger, flashlight, jumper cables, flares, some safety absorbent, a first aid kit, and a tool kit.

What You Can Do with an Unwanted Vehicle

While getting your car winter-ready before the cold season arrives, spare a thought for the disadvantaged people in your community who are likely to face another bleak winter. These are the struggling men and women in your area who can’t find decent jobs and other sources of income due to disabilities, lack of education, essential skills or job experience, and other personal issues such as having prison records.

If you have an extra vehicle that you no longer use, the needy folks in your community would thank you no end if you donate that vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use it to improve their lives.

Our team will put your donated vehicle up for auction and hand over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits use the funding that 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 other critical support services.

As a Goodwill donor, you’ll get a free professional towing service anywhere in the country. You’ll also have the privilege to claim the highest possible tax deduction in the next tax-filing season.

Best of all, you’ll find unsurpassed satisfaction in having done something that will benefit your entire community when once idle members attain financial stability and live productive and fulfilling lives, thanks to your donation.

We accept almost all types of vehicles regardless of their age, mileage, or condition. Head over to this page to learn more.

If you have any questions or concerns, you may message us here or contact us directly through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. Check out our FAQs page for more information on our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process.

Modern truck in underground parking lot | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Erik Mclean under Pexels License

Help the Needy Today!

The best part about doing something to help the needy is the priceless joy of knowing that you’ve done something right. If you’re ready to donate your car, call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


Leasing Vs. Financing Your New Car: Pros and Cons

Brand New Cars | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Erik Mclean under Unsplash License

To Lease or to Buy? Know How to Choose Well

Buying a new car is a major expense that requires some serious thinking. It’s probably the second biggest purchase that most people will make in their lives, next only to their own house.

Unless you have millions in your bank account, you’d want to think about your options before you make that visit to the dealership. Is buying or financing a new car really the best choice for you? Or, would you be better off leasing a vehicle instead?

 

Leasing

When you lease a vehicle, it’s similar to renting. You pay to use the car, typically for three to four years, depending on the agreement you signed with the dealer. Your monthly payments will include the costs to cover the vehicle’s depreciation over time. It’s a lot more restricted compared to financing a vehicle, and you have to return the car to the dealer once your lease is up. If it incurs any damage or is no longer in the condition when you first used it, you might be charged extra fees.

Pros of Leasing

  • You get to drive a new car once your current lease is up.
  • You don’t have to make any down payment, and the initial fees are low.
  • Monthly payments are also lower compared to purchasing a new car.
  • The vehicle is normally covered by a warranty until the lease is up.

Cons of Leasing

  • You have mileage restrictions.
  • You might need to purchase additional insurance.
  • You can incur extra fees.
  • You don’t exactly own the vehicle.

Financing/Buying

Financing a vehicle differs a lot from leasing. It’s when you borrow money from a lending institution or bank to cover the car’s cost. You then pay the lender in fixed monthly installments over an agreed period. You’re not just paying to use the car but to own it once the full amount financed has been settled.

Pros of Financing

  • You get to eventually own the car.
  • You have no mileage restrictions.
  • You have the freedom to change anything in the vehicle.
  • You pay lower insurance premiums.
  • You can sell the car.

Cons of Financing

  • Your car’s value will depreciate over time.
  • Your monthly payments will considerably be higher than what you’ll pay when leasing a vehicle.
  • You may be required to make a down payment.

Disposing of Your Old Car? Here’s Your Best Option

Whether you lease or purchase a new vehicle, you now have to decide what to do with your old ride. Keeping it in your garage can be pointless. Consider donating it to a charity that’s well known for giving its donors great rewards and supporting a cause that will benefit your community. You won’t go wrong when you donate that vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

We’ll put your vehicle up for auction with the proceeds going to the Goodwill organizations serving your local area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans harness their full potential so they can live productive and fulfilling lives. They include the men and women in your community who are saddled with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues, such as being a former inmate. These disadvantages greatly hamper their search for decent and stable sources of income.

Your donation will help your local Goodwill nonprofits in providing their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

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

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community, with once idle members getting great opportunities to attain financial stability.

We accept nearly all vehicle types, even those that are no longer working. We can collect your vehicle donation anywhere in the country since we operate in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia.

For more information about our vehicle donation program, feel free to check out our FAQs page. If you have questions, call us at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.

Make Your Best Move Yet Today!

Car donation | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by dbelkin under Pixabay License

Donating your unneeded vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations may be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. It will not only make it easy for you to dispose of an unwanted vehicle but will also allow you to help uplift the lives of the disadvantaged folks in your community. Make your best move now by calling us at 866-233-8586 or filling out our secure online donation form now!


How Much is RV Storage?

Vintage Mobile RV Parked on Dirt Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Charles Criscuolo under Pexels License

The Real Cost of Owning an RV Goes Far Beyond Its Purchase Price

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in your newly purchased Class A motorhome and enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you’re a millennial or a retiree embracing this ever-growing trend, at some point, you’ll need to store your RV.

It’s important to note that the real cost of ownership stretches far beyond your vehicle’s purchase price. Besides maintenance and insurance costs, you’ll also have to consider the cost of RV storage when the camping season is over.

You may wonder why RV storage is necessary when these vehicles are designed and built for the outdoors. Bear in mind that your expensive vehicle may present an opportunity for thieves. That’s why you need to keep it in a safe place. Moreover, you wouldn’t want to expose your RV to the elements that may cause damage to it. With this in mind, you need to carefully weigh your options for RV storage.

Your Options for Storing Your RV

The cost of your RV storage depends on the type of RV you own, your location, and your unique preferences. For instance, monthly storage rates for a short pop-up trailer cost less than those for a large Class A motorhome. Moreover, if you live in a heavily populated urban area with limited parking, or if you prefer to store your RV in an indoor space with a variety of amenities, expect to pay more for storage.

The average monthly cost for all types of RV storage in the United States could be anywhere between $30 and $450, according to glampingorcamping.com.

Here are your options for RV storage:

  1. Driveway storage

If the space you have available at your home is big enough for a large trailer or RV, you may want to store your vehicle right where you can see it. Although this type of storage won’t cost you a dime, it has its share of drawbacks and challenges.

For instance, your area may have local laws or restrictions that prohibit RV parking just outside your property when it obstructs the sidewalk or encroaches on the property of your neighbors.

Also, driveway storage won’t stop opportunistic criminals from making your massive motorhome their next target. Moreover, if you live in an area that’s windy and often pelted by rain or snow, you won’t be able to protect your vehicle from extended exposure to the elements.

  1. Covered storage units

Depending on which state you’re in, covered RV storage units cost between $40 and $230. This type of storage offers enough room for all types of RV, with most units enclosed in high fences and equipped with security systems. The facility may offer a carport that provides your vehicle the protection of a roof or a canopy as well as three walls.

  1. Indoor storage units

Although most indoor storage units only accommodate small RVs, the average cost is between $53 and $500. Despite their relatively high cost, indoor storage units offer the best protection for your vehicle. You won’t have to worry about the weather, thieves, and other issues associated with outdoor storage.

Turn Your Spare Car into a Beacon of Hope for the Needy

Since the cost of maintaining and storing an RV is far from being cheap, the last thing you’d want is to keep on shouldering the cost of maintaining and storing your old RV even though you no longer use it. If you’re thinking of the best and most practical way to retire it, contact us at Goodwill Car Donations. We offer a stress-free and cost-free solution to your problem.

When you donate to us your old RV or any other type of unwanted vehicle you might have, we’ll pick it up for free, auction it off, and hand over the proceeds to your local Goodwill organizations.

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 personal hindrances, such as being a former inmate.

They use the funding to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

Thanks to your donation, these services will enable the less fortunate residents of your community to attain financial stability. In other words, you’ll play a critical role in empowering these deserving individuals to realize their full potential and live healthy and productive lives.

You’ll also benefit from your charitable contribution since this will entitle you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season. Moreover, we’ll provide you with our free towing service.

The best part about making Goodwill Car Donations your charity partner is the priceless joy of knowing that you’ve turned your vehicle into a beacon of hope for the struggling disadvantaged people in your area.

We accept nearly all vehicle types, even those that are no longer working. We can collect your donation anywhere in the country. It’s because our vehicle donation program covers the entire United States.

For more information about our vehicle donation program, feel free to check out our FAQs page. If you have questions, call us at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.

White Camper Van Parked on the Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Jordi Clapera Parés under Pexels License

Donate Your Extra Vehicle Today!

If you’re ready to make a massive impact on the lives of the underprivileged residents of your community, go ahead and donate your unwanted vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations today. Fill out our online donation form or call us at 866-233-8586 now!


How Much Is Boat Storage?

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

Choose a Boat Storage Option That Fits Your Budget and Needs

Did you know that the average cost of storing a boat could be anything from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand? The cost depends on the type of boat you have. The key is to choose a storage option that best fits your budget, as well as your needs.

One of the biggest mistakes boat owners make is waiting until the last minute to secure their vessel’s winter storage. If you live in an area where boating is extremely popular, it can be challenging to find winter storage. Unless you have enough space on your property to accommodate your vessel when the temperatures start to drop, you should start taking steps to store your boat before winter sets in.

3 Factors You Should Consider When Looking for Boat Storage

It would be best to find a suitable boat storage facility before the cold season begins. Be mindful that boat storage can quickly dig a hole in your wallet. To help you avoid this, Goodwill Car Donations has compiled these three options for you:

  1. Outdoor boat storage

Outdoor boat storage may be the right choice for you if you don’t have enough space in your yard or garage to keep your boat safe or if your vessel is too large for the indoor storage facility in your area. Although outdoor boat storage is relatively cheap and offers security against opportunistic criminals, you can’t expect it to protect your boat against the elements. For this reason, you’d want to wrap your vessel or purchase a boat cover to keep it safe from wintry weather. While you’re at it, don’t forget to ask those manning the storage facility if they’ll do light routine maintenance of your boat while in storage.

  1. Covered boat storage

Any boat kept outdoors faces damaging elements, including intense sun exposure. If you want to protect your boat, you may want to choose a type of storage space that’s underneath a free-standing shelter. It’s important to note that compared to regular outdoor storage, the cost of getting covered boat storage is a bit higher.

  1. Indoor boat storage

Although indoor boat storage can be very expensive, it should be worth the price. Besides offering total protection from potential theft, this option also shields your boat from the elements. If you’re looking to find a high-end boat storage option that ensures your vessel’s overall safety, indoor boat storage is your best bet.

 

Looking for Ways to Help the Needy in Your Community?

If you plan to dispose of a boat, car, or any other vehicle that you no longer need, hand it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll pick it up at no cost to you and no matter where it’s stored in the country. What’s more, your charitable contribution will entitle you to a substantial tax deduction in the next tax season.

However, the best part about donating an unwanted vehicle to us is the priceless joy of knowing that you’ve done something that will empower the disadvantaged folks in your community. With your help, those who are saddled with disabilities, past criminal records, lack of essential skills, education, or job experience can have a chance to live healthy and productive lives.

When you donate a vehicle to us, we’ll auction it off and use the generated proceeds to support the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits use the funding to provide their beneficiaries with scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, job training and placement, career development, and other life-enrichment services.

To get more information about Goodwill Car Donations, including our quick and easy vehicle donation process, head over to our FAQs page. Should you have any questions or concerns, you may contact us through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also message us here.

Colleagues doing a Huddle | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Edmond Dantès under Pexels License

Give Back to Your Community Today!

Donate a vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations to give back to your community today. With that gift, you can impact the lives of the disadvantaged people in your area and contribute to the growth and progress of your community as well. Call us at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form to get started with your car donation now!


6 Clever Hacks to Keep Your Car Clean and Organized

Organize cars | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Blocks Fletcher under Unsplash License

Get Car Clutter Under Control!

If you’re like most people, your car is a space that’s just as important and personal as your own home. Unlike your home, however, your vehicle has the added advantage of being mobile. Nevertheless, just like your home, you have to stock it with the essentials you may need on the go.

Just like your house, your car can get pretty messy especially if you have little ones on board. Before you know it, toys, books, and snacks are all over inside the cabin. Unless you get everything under control, car clutter can take on a life of its own.

What You Can Do to Keep Your Car Clean and Organized

While stocking your car with important items is always a good idea, having these items in a haphazard jumble will make it a hassle for you to access them. To help you keep your mobile personal space clean and organized, Goodwill Car Donations has pulled together these clever hacks:

  1. Place trash receptacles in the front and back seats.

After a long drive, the last thing you want is to crawl inside your vehicle while picking up candy wrappers, plastic baggies, and gas station receipts. You can effectively make the cleaning of your car interior less burdensome if you place trash receptacles in the front and back seats to make it easier for everybody to reach them for dumping their trash. Just grab a plastic cereal dispenser, line it with a plastic bag, and you got yourself a place for trash.

  1. Implement the “pack it in, pack it out” rule.

Clutter can quickly multiply overnight. It will be easier for you to keep your car clean and clutter-free if you implement the “pack it in, pack it out” rule. This rule applies to any item brought into the car that should be taken out and packed into the house at the end of the day. These items include water bottles, jackets, gym bags, unfinished snacks, wrappers, or any other things that shouldn’t be inside a car.

  1. Get some organizers.

You need a place for your essentials. Thankfully, you can use an organizer for every space in your vehicle.

  1. Have a spare change organizer.

You wouldn’t want spare change to be clanking in the glovebox or rattling around in your cupholder. Before you lose them in the corners of your console, use an empty gum holder to keep all of the spare change in one place. Aside from fitting nicely in the cupholder, it also comes with a handy flip-top lid to give you easy access.

  1. Install headrest hooks.

Whether you need a place to hang your purse, your kids’ backpacks, or a bag of groceries, car headrest hooks can help make your car look more organized and your life a lot easier.

  1. Use a gap filler organizer.

Dropping something into one of your car’s dreaded gaps is certainly not one of life’s many joys. Instead of wasting your time trying to stretch your arm to retrieve a pen, some change, or your cellphone, use a gap filler console organizer. Besides stopping anything from being sucked into the Bermuda Triangle, you can use this organizer for storing other items as well.

The Perfect Solution to Your Car Issues

While keeping your car clean and organized won’t burn a hole in your wallet, endless trips to the repair shop will.

If you’re looking to find ways to rid yourself of a clapped-out vehicle that you no longer want or need, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll use it to improve the lives of the disadvantaged people in your community. These are the folks who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education, essential skills, or job experience, and other limiting personal issues, such as being a former inmate. These disadvantages serve as barriers that prevent them from living productive lives. You can help dismantle those barriers with your car donation.

We’ll sell your donated vehicle at an auction and use the proceeds to support the job and livelihood programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits use the funding we give to provide disadvantaged individuals with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical support services.

When you donate your vehicle to us, you’ll get your unwanted auto picked up and hauled away for free from any location within the country.

You’ll also be entitled to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax filing season.

Best of all, your act of charity will also bring you an immense sense of personal satisfaction, knowing that you’ll be empowering the less fortunate folks in your area, helping them free themselves from the grip of poverty.

Goodwill Car Donations accepts nearly all types of vehicles, including those that need a lot of work. What’s more, our donation process is incredibly fast and easy.

If you want more information about Goodwill Car Donations, head over to our FAQs page. For your questions or concerns, call us anytime through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also contact us online.

Donate Your Unwanted Car to Make a Difference Today!

Red Sedan Parked on Pavement | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Алексей Игнатов under Unsplash License

What’s the point of maintaining a vehicle that no longer serves you well? Donate it to Goodwill Car Donations to make a difference in your community! Fill out our secure online donation form or call us at 866-233-8586 now!


5 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Car’s Interior

Car interior photo | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Mike Bird under Pexels License

Give Your Auto’s Interior a Much-Needed Makeover!

Over time, your vehicle’s interior can start to feel old and musty. This is especially true if you use your car daily, only giving it a break when you’re either sleeping or staying home.

Even though the interior of a vehicle isn’t as exposed to the elements as its exterior, it’s still subject to wear and tear. Car mats and carpets get stained, seats get ripped, and even the steering wheel’s rubber may start peeling off.

Since our vehicle’s comfort level is determined by what’s on the inside, it’s in our best interest to make sure the interior is in tip-top shape. To give your car’s interior a much-needed makeover, Goodwill Car Donations shares these five easy upgrades:

  1. Car mats

Your car’s floor mats are probably the easiest interior upgrades you can make. The standard ones that come with your vehicle may not be that durable and may not last long. If you see that your mats are already in bad shape, you have several options to choose from on the market, including luxury mats.

  1. Car seat covers

Whether your car’s seat covers are cotton or leather, they can look old and stained over time. Leather is easier to clean. However, it’s prone to cracking due to age. Stains on cotton seat covers are harder to remove but they aren’t as expensive as the leather variety. If cleaning products can’t remove the stains on your seats, it’s probably time to replace them.

  1. Steering wheel

Your car’s steering wheel can get scrapes and cuts over time, especially if you don’t use a cover. If you want to hide them inexpensively, just buy a steering wheel cover. For a steering wheel that looks old and banged up, you might want to consider buying a replacement.

  1. Vehicle lighting

Adding lighting to your car’s interior gives an extra feel to it, especially if you’re fond of nighttime driving. LED additions under the dashboard are inexpensive upgrades that can make your car feel more personalized to you.

  1. Touch-screen stereo

If your car didn’t come with a touch-screen stereo, this is one of the best interior upgrades you can get. Unless your car is decades old, it should be easy for you to install a touch-screen stereo. Say goodbye to that jack and hello to Bluetooth technology!

 

Transform Lives When You Donate Your Old Car to Us

If you want to have a spanking new and modern car interior, the simplest way to get that is by buying a brand-new auto!

Once you purchase a new car, it’s time to get your old ride out of your garage. If you’re looking for an easy way to dispose of your ancient vehicle while giving it a new and worthy purpose, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We will use your donation to support the job and livelihood programs being provided by the Goodwill organizations in your area.

We will have your car auctioned off, with the proceeds going to these IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Goodwill organizations all over the country are dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans so they can harness their full potential to be able to live productive and fulfilling lives.

The Goodwill beneficiaries include the men and women in your community who are saddled with disabilities, lack of education, job experience, or essential skills, and other limiting personal issues. These disadvantages prevent them from finding decent sources of income that can help free them from the clutches of poverty.

Thanks to your car donation, your local Goodwill organizations will be able to help more deserving people in your area, providing them with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other vital support services.

It will take you just a few minutes to make an auto donation to us. All you have to do is contact us. We’ll handle everything else from that point on, including picking up and towing your vehicle at no cost to you.

Your charitable contribution will also make you eligible to receive a top tax deduction in the next tax season.

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

You can donate almost any type of vehicle even if it’s no longer working properly.

Interested in learning more about us? Additional information about Goodwill Car Donations and the specifics on how you can become a Goodwill vehicle donor can be found on our FAQs page. You can also call us through our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586 or message us here.

Hand Over Your Old Ride to Us Today!

Black suv parked near the shore | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Yi Ma under Unsplash License

Are you ready to transform your old commuter car into a catalyst for growth in your community for the benefit of all? Donate it to us today! Get in touch with Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!


Accessories to Make Your Old Car Feel New

A Steering Wheel of an Audi Car | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Alexander Pöllinger under Pexels License

Gear Up Your Old Car with the Right Technology!

Did you know that you can breathe new life back into your old set of wheels and enjoy a dramatically different ride? With the right kind of high-tech accessories, you can easily turn that antiquated vehicle into a modern car! Since these cool implements work just as they promise to, they surely are worth every cent.

High-Tech Implements that Can Make Your Car Feel New

You’d be surprised at how a few high-tech implements can drastically upgrade an automobile that’s the equivalent of a senior citizen. Goodwill Car Donations has pulled together these cool car accessories that can bring sparkles back into your trusty steed!

  1. Parking sensors

If you live in a crowded urban area, you’d need something to sound an alert each time you park too close to an obstacle in front or at the back of your car. Thankfully, you can find aftermarket devices that provide proximity alerts. It’s up to you if you want to attach a license plate frame with sensors or install multiple sensors inside your bumpers.

  1. Bluetooth phone hookup

Your car may have the most elaborate integrated audio system, but not Bluetooth connectivity. Don’t be that driver who holds a phone like they’re holding a slice of pizza. Get yourself a Bluetooth phone hookup to ensure safe phone operation.

  1. Smart driving assistance systems

This tech gadget allows you to monitor the engine diagnostics of your car and improve its fuel efficiency. If you have a teen driver, these systems can teach them to drive responsibly. Some of these products even come with scanners that can translate engine codes that are understandable on your smartphone.

  1. Heated steering wheel cover

Getting into your vehicle in the dead of winter can feel like stepping into an icebox. When you try to grip your steering wheel, you may feel like you’re grasping an icicle. A heated steering wheel cover can warm up your frozen steering wheel before you hit the road. Just plug it into your car’s cigarette lighter and you’re all set.

  1. Keyless start

If your hand cramps up at the mere thought of twisting a physical key to start your car, you’d want to replace your older car’s ignition lock with a modern push-button starter. If you want to take this cutting-edge convenience to the next level, consider including proximity fobs that allow you to start, lock, and unlock your car remotely.

Tired of Maintaining an Old Vehicle?

If the total repair cost of your old car is much higher than its actual value, perhaps it’s time for you to part ways with it. When you hand it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations, we’ll turn it into a beacon of hope for the disadvantaged individuals in your community. These are the men and women who are burdened with disabilities and other personal issues that prevent them from breaking free from a life of poverty.

We’ll auction off your vehicle and distribute the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 50(c)3 nonprofits use the funding sourced from the sale of vehicle donations to provide deserving individuals with job training and employment opportunities, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, scholarships, and other types of support services.

Your donation will entitle you to reap high-value perks, including a free professional vehicle towing service and a top tax deduction in the next tax-filing season.

However, these material rewards may pale in comparison to the priceless joy of knowing that you’ve given struggling men and women the opportunity to live productive and fulfilling lives.

Our team accepts nearly all vehicle types – even those that are no longer in their best condition. We can also collect your donation anywhere in the country.

For more information about our vehicle donation program, feel free to check out our FAQs page. If you have questions, call us at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.

Red Alfa Romeo C4 on Road Near Trees| Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Pixabay under Pexels License

Turn Lives Around Today!

Use your unwanted vehicle to bring hope to those who are feeling hopeless. If you’re ready to make your donation today, call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our secure online donation form now!