Top 5 Most Common Summer Car Problems

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

The Summer Heat Can Be Rough On Your Ride

Before you strap on your seatbelt and head on down to the beach, you might want to make a final check on your vehicle. Summer’s warm weather could cause a car to break down in the middle of a trip, causing immense frustration and ruining a perfectly planned beach day. Nobody wants to spend an hour or two on the roadside waiting for a tow.

Goodwill Car Donations presents five of the most common car issues often encountered by vehicle owners during the summer season:

  1. Engine overheating

While sunny weather is great for getting tans, it could be bad for your vehicle’s engine. With temperatures higher than normal, engine overheating isn’t uncommon, especially for vehicles that are low on coolant or have oil leaks. When your engine overheats, it means not just a pause to your trip. It can also mean a hefty repair expense or other major car issues.

  1. Tire issues

Hot weather means hot roads, which means your tires receive added stress and flex more. For tires with existing issues, the increased temperatures could be an aggravating factor, leading to either flat tires or tire blowouts. The solution? Do regular checkups on your tires’ condition and air pressure.

  1. Dead or malfunctioning battery

It’s not only during cold weather when you have to worry about your car’s battery. Extreme heat can affect your car’s battery fluid and cause it to evaporate, leading to other issues that you don’t want to get into. Don’t risk going on long road trips if you sense that there’s something wrong with your battery. Have your battery checked at the shop especially if it’s set for replacement.

  1. Fuel leak

High temperatures can cause the liquid in your fuel tank to vaporize. If there’s a cracked hose in your fuel system, your fuel will leak. This will not only drain your wallet (since you’ll run out of fuel faster) but will also pose a fire hazard wherever your car is parked.

  1. Worn-out clutch

Your clutch will wear down eventually, but hot weather conditions have a way of speeding this up.  When you start to experience or see signs of your clutch wearing down, delay your road trip and take your vehicle to the shop immediately.

Tired of Your Clunker Always Acting Up? Hand It Over to Us!

If you don’t have the patience or the extra money to keep dealing with a car that’s always breaking down, it’s probably best to get it off of your hands. Consider donating it to us here at Goodwill Car Donations for the benefit of the impoverished and disadvantaged residents of your community. They comprise of the men and women who are suffering from disabilities, lack education, job experience, or essential skills, and have other disadvantages (such as having prison records) that make it hard for them to find decent and stable sources of income.

We will have your vehicle auctioned off with the generated funds going straight to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits use the funding to finance their programs aimed at empowering disadvantaged individuals. From these programs, beneficiaries get job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

Making a Goodwill car donation is super easy. You’ll be able to quickly dispose of your clunker while getting high-value rewards at the same time. We’ll pick up and tow your vehicle for free wherever you are in the United States. Your donation will also entitle you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

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

You can donate not just cars, pick-up trucks, or motorcycles but also golf carts, farm tractors, boats, and many other vehicles and vessels. We’ll welcome whatever type of vehicle you donate regardless of its condition.

Interested to know more? Find more information about Goodwill Car Donations by visiting our FAQs page.  You can also give us a ring at 866-233-8586 or contact us here.

Give Your Clapped-Out Car a New and Worthy Purpose Today!

Red Sedan Car in the Car Park | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Neron Photos under Pexels License

Give a new and worthy purpose to your old clunker by using it to help uplift the lives of the less fortunate people in your community. We will make that happen when you hand over that vehicle to us. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form right now!


3 Best Vehicles for Road Trips: 2021 Edition

Person Going for A Morning Road Trip | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Elina Sazonova under Pexels License

Know What Makes for a Good Road Trip Car

Are you excited about your next great adventure? If you’re looking for the perfect set of wheels for your upcoming road trip, keep in mind that not all vehicles are created equal. While maintenance is the key requirement that makes vehicles ready for long journeys, what the vehicle itself can offer matters more than you think.

What Vehicles Are Ideal for Traveling in 2021?

When it comes to road trips, the main requirements for vehicles are clear: The car must be able to last longer and go farther than some others, be spacious and comfortable, and most of all, fun to drive. Goodwill Car Donations has rounded up the best cars for road trips this year.

  1. Toyota RAV4 Prime XSE

Since road trips consist of long hours spent behind the wheel, you’ll want a car that can give you the comfort and space you need. One of the top choices for long trips is the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime XSE.

When it’s fully charged, it can run on 38 mpg for more than 40 miles. What’s more, it comes equipped with a rear cross-traffic alert and a blind-spot monitor to ensure the safety of both the driver and their passengers.

  1. Range Rover Westminster Edition

If you want to enjoy a classy and luxurious road trip, it will be hard to find a vehicle as good as the 2021 Range Rover Westminster Edition. It has a panoramic roof, ambient interior lighting, and advanced technological features.

However, along with its extravagance is its high price tag, which is around $103,000. This vehicle may not be the most affordable or practical choice out there, but it tops most vehicles in terms of design and functionalities.

  1. Toyota Prius L Eco

In contrast to the previous option, the 2021 Toyota Prius L Eco is the best choice for those with a limited budget. Its cargo space may be limited, but no compromises were made in its interior and entertainment features.

Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community?

Before deciding to purchase any of the road-trip-worthy vehicles listed above, consider donating the old car you’re leaving behind to us at Goodwill Car Donations. Your donation will become a vital source of support for the men and women in your community who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other barriers to gainful employment and a poverty-free life.

We’ll have your car auctioned off, using the proceeds to fund the community development programs of the Goodwill organization serving your local area. Goodwill organizations are located all over the United States with the primary mission of transforming the lives of millions of disadvantaged Americans. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits use the funding that comes from the sale of donated vehicles to sustain their delivery of critical services to their beneficiaries. The services include job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

These services are meant to empower disadvantaged individuals to reach their full potential and turn them into productive and financially stable members of their community.

Expect a 100% tax-deductible sales receipt in your mailbox a few weeks after your vehicle’s auction. You’ll need it to claim your top tax deduction in the next tax-filing season.

What’s more, you can count on us to provide you with a highly satisfying donation experience, knowing that your act of charity will help generate new jobs in 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. You can also make your donation wherever you’re residing in the country since Goodwill Car Donations operates in all 50 states.

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 at our toll-free hotline 866-233-8586. You may also drop us a message here and we’ll respond to you promptly.

Turn Your Clunker into a Weapon against Poverty

If you care for your community and the people who live there, then donating your unwanted car to Goodwill Car Donations makes a lot of sense. Call 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!

Free Car Image on Unsplash | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Amber Kipp under Unsplash License

5 Warning Signs of Brake Problems

Car brake close up view | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Benjamin Brunner under Unsplash License

Save Lives By Knowing These Signs

Most car owners tend to take their car’s functions and parts for granted, especially the brakes. They content themselves with knowing that when they press on the gas pedal, their car moves forward or speeds up, and when they press on the brake pedal, it slows down or stops.

The ability to slow down or stop your car properly once it’s in motion is one of the most important things you should know as a driver. You don’t want to be going 80 km/hour on the highway and then realize your brakes aren’t working! With poor performing or busted brakes, a moving car on the road is a hazard to everyone.

Unfortunately, even though the brake system is one of the most vital components of a vehicle, many car owners don’t know how to take care of their brakes. Many also don’t know the signs that something is wrong with their brakes.

Knowing proper brake maintenance can save you and other drivers from potentially catastrophic road accidents.

Tell-Tale Signs of Brake Issues

If you drive your vehicle daily, you’ll immediately know when something’s wrong. Does it take more force than usual to stop your car? Do you hear a high-pitched noise whenever you step on the brakes? These are tell-tale signs that you’re having issues with your brakes. To avoid a potential disaster on the road, you need to resolve these issues quickly by taking your car to the repair shop.

Take a look at these 5 things that commonly happen to vehicles experiencing brake problems:

  1. Your brake light is on.

If your brake light is on and you don’t have your parking brake engaged, you likely need to get your car’s brake system inspected. When the mechanic can’t find any possible causes, you might want to have the mechanic take a look at your car’s electronics as well.

  1. You hear grinding, squealing, or screeching noise.

Noise when braking signifies different issues. High-pitched, squealing noise is often caused by worn-out brake pads. Grinding noise in the pedal might mean something might have gotten in the caliper unit. Problems can range from minor ones to complicated issues, so be sure to get your car serviced when you hear strange noises when braking.

  1. You experience vibration or wobbling when braking.

Vibrating brakes most likely have something to do with your brake rotors. Get your brakes serviced and make sure the rotor faces are smoothed out and are as flawless as they can be. There might also be rust there that could be the source of the wobbling.

  1. You’re constantly running low on brake fluid.

Are you refilling your brake fluid more than usual? You might have a leak somewhere in the brake system that’s causing you to lose more fluid than needed. A leak essentially means that your car won’t have enough power to force the brake pads to adhere to your vehicle’s rotors.

  1. You have a spongy brake pedal.

A difference in your brake pedal’s resistance could mean air or moisture in the braking system. Make sure to get your vehicle serviced immediately as this could turn out to be a complicated issue concerning your brake’s master cylinder.

Know When to Give Up Your Problematic Car

If your brake problem is just one of several car issues that are giving you endless headaches and depleting your savings with their costly repairs, perhaps it’s time to give up your clunker. Instead of allowing it to bleed you dry, get some benefits from it while using it to serve a worthy purpose.

You can do that by simply donating that vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations. Your donation will become a vital source of support for the men and women in your community who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other disadvantages (such as having prison records) that serve as barriers to gainful employment and a poverty-free life.

We’ll sell your car at an auction and use the proceeds to fund the programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your area. Thanks to your contribution, needy people in your community will be able to receive job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services. These will help them reach their full potential, helping turn them into productive and financially independent individuals that they’ve always wanted to be.

We’ll pick up and tow your vehicle for free wherever you are located in the country. Your donation will also entitle you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

More importantly, 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 learn more about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, head over to 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 at our toll-free hotline 866-233-8586. We’d be happy to hear from you!

Make a Difference with Your Clunker Today!

Yellow suv parked near a tree | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Matt Hardy under Pexels License

Make the best use of your clapped-out car by allowing us to convert it into a source of funding for services that will benefit the less fortunate people in your community. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!


Best Vehicles for New Drivers: 2021 Edition

Hyundai on Ground Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Erik Mclean under Pexels License

A New Car for a New Driver!

You finally got your driver’s license. Now you have to take the next big step: choosing the vehicle that’s perfect for a new driver such as yourself.

If you don’t have confidence in your driving skills yet, you might find some cars hard to navigate as their controls may be too advanced for your level. However, you don’t have to worry because you can find a slew of vehicles out there that are ideal for someone new to driving.

 

What Are the Recommended Cars for Rookie Drivers?

As a beginner in driving, you are recommended to use smaller vehicles first since those are more manageable and easier to handle. You should also look for cars that have user-friendly controls. Give importance as well to their safety features and reliability.

  1. Hyundai i10

If there’s something that new drivers are often worried about, it is getting their cars scratched or damaged. That’s why it’s essential to know how reliable the brand is. Fortunately for you, ranking sixth in the 2020 reliability survey is Hyundai at 96.3%.

It has an unlimited-mileage warranty that lasts for half a decade and guaranteed roadside assistance for one whole year. it also has built-in systems for emergency braking, lane departure and assistance, and automatic emergency service response.

  1. Ford Fiesta

As a novice in driving, you might find it hard to maintain a straight course if the steering is too light. Meanwhile, if it is too heavy, the car will be difficult to drive. However, those are not your concerns when you drive the Ford Fiesta as it has accurate and well-weighted steering.

Another advantage is that it has a feature called the MyKey system, which regulates the car’s maximum speed as controlled by the driver’s parents or supervisor. That can be very beneficial to avoid overspeeding and road accidents.

  1. Volkswagen Polo

You won’t be a beginner in driving for long. The best way to gradually introduce yourself to the more advanced level is to experience a precursor. And the ideal vehicle for this is the 2021 Volkswagen Polo, which is known for its refined yet uncomplicated controls.

Despite its more advanced features, there’s no concern about its safety. It has an automatic emergency braking system, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

 

Make a Difference in Your Community with Your Car Donation

If you’re planning to get rid of an old car you inherited from a family member, consider donating it to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We’ll put your vehicle up for auction with the proceeds going to the Goodwill organization serving your local area.

Goodwill organizations are IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits with branches all over the United States. They cater to disadvantaged Americans or those who are saddled with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other personal issues that hamper their search for decent and stable sources of income so they can live productive and fulfilling lives.

These Goodwill nonprofits make use of the funding that comes from our sale of donated vehicles to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

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

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 Today!

People Doing Fist bump | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Mikhail Nilov under Pexels License

Teaming up with Goodwill Car Donations will be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. It will not only help you deal with your clunker problem but will also allow you to help the disadvantaged folks in your locality to turn their lives around. Do something extraordinary today! Call us at 866-233-8586  or fill out our online donation form today!


3 Best Vehicles for a Large Family: 2021 Edition

Black Ford Expedition | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Pete Alexopoulos under Unsplash License

On the Hunt for the Perfect Family Car?

Choosing the best vehicle for your needs, budget, and preferences can be overwhelming, but it’s more so if you have to take your large family into account. When it comes to shopping for the best vehicles for large families, most people use the number of seats available as the basis for their decision.

While a vehicle’s seating capacity is essential, it shouldn’t be your only concern. You should also consider the vehicle’s safety features, especially if you have kids. It’s also a must to check if the vehicle has enough trunk space if you travel often with your whole family.

What SUVs and Minivans Are Best for Big Families?

The list of vehicles available on the market is endless, which is why most people think that it’s almost impossible to decide where to start looking. If you want to go for the best one out there, start searching from Goodwill Car Donations’ top picks for the best vehicles for large families.

  1. Honda Odyssey

This minivan has received the best family car award for three consecutive years now. It comes with tons of safety features and entertainment technologies and can accommodate up to eight passengers.

If you have kids, you’ll be glad to know that the Honda Odyssey features a LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children) system for up to five seats. Long road trips won’t be a problem because it has Wi-Fi, a DVD player, a charging pad, a camera, and an in-vehicle vacuum.

  1. Kia Telluride

Are you looking for a family vehicle that has superior safety and entertainment features? You can’t go wrong with the 2021 Kia Telluride. It has eight available car seats, all with individual USB ports and wireless chargers.

Moreover, it also has impressive features that include a blind spot monitor, standard safe exit assist, smart cruise control, lane-keeping technology, systems for rear occupant alert, and emergency braking and warning.

  1. Ford Expedition

If going on family trips is your primary purpose for purchasing a new vehicle, then you should check out the 2021 Ford Expedition. It has eight car seats and cargo space wide enough to fit your pets and gear for your favorite outdoor activities.

Got a Clunker? Donate It to Us to Help the Poor

While you’re trying to decide on the best car for your family, disadvantaged individuals in your area are struggling to make ends meet. They include the men and women in your community who are suffering from disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other disadvantages that keep them enslaved to poverty.

If you have an extra vehicle that you no longer need, you can use it to help your impoverished neighbors. All you have to do is turn over that vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

We will auction off your donated vehicle to raise funds for the community-based programs and services of the Goodwill organization serving your area. Located across the United States, Goodwill organizations are IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits that seek to empower disadvantaged Americans. They use the money sourced from vehicle donations to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

As a Goodwill donor, you’ll enjoy awesome perks. Aside from knowing that you’ll be helping less fortunate folks achieve financial stability and a much better quality of life, you’ll also find satisfaction when we haul off your vehicle for free and enable you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

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

If you need more information about our quick and easy donation process, head over to our FAQs page. For your questions or concerns, call us at 866-233-8586 or contact us online.

Touch Lives Today!

Your Goodwill vehicle donation will touch people’s lives in ways that you could never even imagine. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!

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4 Top Reasons Why Your Car A/C Is Blowing Hot Air

CAR AC | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by ninofficialphotography under Pixabay License

Sweating Inside Your Car?

No one likes to drive in the scorching heat without turning on the car’s A/C. The air conditioning keeps you cool and comfortable even under the hot summer sun. It makes you look forward to getting into your car after a hot day spent outdoors.

If your A/C starts to malfunction, however, your day (and mood) can quickly swing from good to bad. Can you imagine sitting in traffic for an hour under the sun’s heat without any A/C?

There can be several causes why your A/C has stopped blowing cool. Goodwill Car Donations has listed 4 of the top reasons:

  1. Refrigerant leak

Your car’s refrigerant is a liquid that’s responsible for keeping things cool. It circulates through your air conditioning system, removing heat and humidity from the cabin. If your refrigerant is leaking, its levels will run low or dry out pretty quickly no matter how many times you get it refilled. Causes can vary from worn-out evaporators to punctures in the hoses connected to the evaporators.

  1. Compressor issues

Just like your engine is the heart of your car, your compressor is the heart of your A/C. It’s responsible for circulating refrigerant through the system. If it’s broken and not working properly, your A/C won’t be able to blow cool air. Some compressor parts can’t be replaced, so you’d likely need to replace the entire compressor if this happens.

  1. Electrical issues

If the A/C system checks out fine, the lack of cool air could be related to your vehicle’s electrical components. Frayed wires or blown fuses can affect your A/C from working properly.

  1. Broken condenser

The function of the condenser is to make sure the refrigerant stays cool. If it’s not working properly, that should explain why warm hair is blowing out of your A/C. Sometimes, condenser issues can be as simple as clearing out blockages or clogs caused by road debris.

 

Having One Too Many Car Problems?

If a malfunctioning A/C is just one of your car’s many persistent problems and you’re being overwhelmed by the high costs of repairs, your best option is to simply retire that vehicle in a way that will give it a new and worthy purpose. That way is by donating it to us here at Goodwill Car Donations. We will use your vehicle to empower the disadvantaged people in your community so they can free themselves from a life of misery.

We will do that by auctioning off your vehicle to raise funds for the community-based programs and services of the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to individuals saddled with disabilities, lack of education, skills, or job experience, and other disadvantages that prevent them from finding decent sources of income.

These nonprofits use the money sourced from the sale of donated vehicles to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

It will take you just a few minutes to make a Goodwill donation. 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 absolutely no cost to you.

Your charitable contribution will also make you eligible to receive the maximum 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.

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

If you need more information about our quick and easy donation process, head over to our FAQs page. For your questions or concerns, call us at 866-233-8586 or contact us here.

 

Help Empower Disadvantaged Folks Today!

Distressed man | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Andrea Piacquadio under Pexels License

Making a Goodwill vehicle donation is a textbook description of a win-win situation. The disadvantaged residents of your community will benefit from it while you get your share of rewards as well. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!


6 Ideas for Your Ultimate Van Life Conversions

Van Life | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Clay Banks under Unsplash License

Clever Design Hacks You Can Use in Making Your Own Mobile Home

More and more people these days are switching to tiny homes to save up on costs and minimize their living expenses. Living in smaller homes with just the essentials lets you save up on mortgage and utilities while giving you more time for yourself since maintenance of your new cozy home is a breeze.

For the same reasons, plus the added benefit of mobility, more and more Americans are converting their vans to liveable homes. You could get up and go at a moment’s notice in your trusty mobile home without having to spend days packing and hiring a mover to transport your stuff.

Among the top reasons why you may want to consider converting to van life are:

  • It allows you to save a lot of money.

You won’t have to worry about mortgage or rent. You can also save a ton on utility costs with your new mobile lifestyle. Just be prepared to invest in the purchase of a van and its conversion, which will cost you a couple of thousand bucks. You can save by purchasing a second-hand van that’s already been converted and make your own DIY improvements as you go along.

  • It gives you the freedom to travel.

What’s better than traveling carrying your home with you? You will have an unlimited number of spots to park and call your home!

  • It’s an enticing challenge.

Van life is not for all types of people, but if you want to learn and challenge yourself, it could be the right experience for you. Converting your van to make it liveable and comfortable develops your skills in home improvement. As you travel to various destinations, you will get exposed to different types of people and cultures. It’s not always going to be easy, but it has its own rewards.

Our 6 Tips for Your Ultimate Van Life Conversion

Here are snaps of 6 clever designs that can transform your van into your desired mobile home:

  1. Bitten by the travel bug

If you intend to travel to various places and experience different cultures, then embarking on an extended road trip using this comfy mobile home could be the right call.

  1. The Ultimate DIY project

If you’re handy with tools, you can save a lot by building custom furniture for your van. There are plenty of design ideas for extra storage, beds, and dining areas that you can explore online. See what fits your personality.

  1. Go rustic and stylish

Even when you’re on a budget, you can decorate your space with unique pieces that you can find in thrift stores and come up with a bohemian-inspired look for your interior.

  1. Simple and functional

You can achieve the best van life conversion by focusing on your main layout. Before embarking on your conversion, make sure that you map out the layout for your needs as you transform your van into a living space.

  1. Make good investments

If you’re planning to live in your van for a long time, you might do well by investing in facilities such as a toilet and kitchen, which are essential to your new lifestyle. You can get creative and make pull-out outdoor kitchens so you can move around freely as you prepare your food. You can also install a shower and toilet.

  1. Elements with multiple purposes

Maximize the use of elements in your van by making them count for multiple purposes. Use your dining table as a mobile workspace. Create storage spaces for your stuff with clever design ideas.

Leaving Behind Unneeded Vehicles? Donate Them to Us!

As you prepare for your ultimate van life conversion, you may have a car and other vehicles that you will have no more use of. If you’re thinking of the best way to dispose of them, you will receive maximum benefits if you simply turn over those vehicles to us at Goodwill Car Donations.

When you do so, you’ll entitle yourself to receive valuable rewards such as getting the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season for each of the vehicles you’re donating. Expect 100% tax-deductible sales receipts in your mailbox within 30 days after we sell your vehicles.

Furthermore, we’ll be towing your vehicles at absolutely no cost to you, and it’s even up to you to decide on the time and place for this.

We’ll auction off your donations and use the proceeds to finance the life-enrichment programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged individuals — those who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other personal issues (such as having prison records) that prevent them from finding decent sources of income and living poverty-free lives.

These Goodwill nonprofits use the funding that comes from the sale of donated vehicles to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

You’ll be amazed and feel fully satisfied when Goodwill uses your donations to empower disadvantaged individuals, enabling them to achieve their dreams of living financially stable and fulfilling lives.

We take in a wide range of vehicle types — from your rusty sedan to your dad’s broken-down tractor. The condition of the vehicles you’re donating wouldn’t matter much to us either. We’ll happily accept your battered car even if it wouldn’t start anymore.

We can also collect your donation wherever you’re located in the country since we operate in all 50 states.

Got a question for us? Call us anytime at 866-233-8586 or send us a message here. You may also want to check out our FAQs page to learn more about our vehicle donations program.

Silver Volkswagen Car Parked on a Lot | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Kamshotthat under Pexels License

Transform Lives as You Go On a New Adventure

As you venture into a new lifestyle, you can still make good use of the vehicles you’ll be leaving behind. Turn them over to us at Goodwill Car Donations so we can use them to uplift the lives of your disadvantaged fellow Americans. Call us at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!


How Do You Recharge Your Car’s A/C?

Car Interior Conditioning | Goodwill Car Donations
Photo by kaboompics under Pixabay License

 

4 Simple Steps to Keep Your Car’s Interior Cool

Has your car’s A/C stopped blowing cool air? Before you start worrying about this, know that solving your A/C issue can be as simple as recharging your A/C refrigerant!

All you need to do is add more refrigerant to give your A/C the juice it needs to blow cool air again. While this is a bit more complicated than refilling your washer liquid for your windshield, you can still do it on your own provided you follow the basic steps and take precautions (since the refrigerant is considered a hazardous liquid).

Keep in mind, however, that some cars (like classic cars and today’s latest models) can’t have their A/C recharged. It’s because those cars use different refrigerants than the R-134a type of refrigerant contained in most DIY canisters. Classic cars built before 1994 were designed for R-12 refrigerant while many of today’s newest cars use the latest refrigerant called R-1234yf. You cannot mix refrigerant types, and putting the wrong refrigerant in your car will cause damage to your air conditioning system. If you don’t know the type of refrigerant used in your car’s A/C, better not recharge it. Your only option when your A/C stops working properly is to have the entire unit replaced.

Check out these 4 steps below on how you can recharge your A/C all by yourself:

  • Step 1:

Purchase a refrigerant charge kit for your vehicle. Most auto shops should have this and will be able to help you choose the correct type of refrigerant you need.

  • Step 2:

Pop your hood open and find the low-side port. This is the barb on the larger tube between your compressor (mounted to the engine and with a belt) and evaporator (which looks like an aluminum can). If you don’t know what these parts look like, a quick Google search should be able to help you out.

  • Step 3:

The charge kit you purchased should have a gauge and a hose attached to the can of refrigerant. Attach it to the low side port securely. Start your car engine and blast your A/C to its max setting, then head back to the hood to check the gauge on the refrigerant can. The front of the compressor should be spinning and the clutch should be engaged, if the pressure is lower than 20 psi on the gauge, dispense refrigerant until the clutch engages.

  • Step 4:

The refrigerant should have a chart or instructions for the proper system pressure you should apply. Follow it as noted and continue dispensing refrigerant until you reach the level you want. However, you should allow for a little allowance and make sure not to over-pressurize the system.

 

Support Needy Residents In Your Area Using Your Jalopy

 Recharging your car A/C by yourself is easy. What’s not easy is paying for the high cost of repairs not only of your car A/C but other parts as well. If you’ve busted your wallet trying to fix your clunker to no avail, there’s only one thing left for you to do: Dispose of that jalopy in the best and most advantageous way possible!

You can do that by simply donating that vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We will use your donation to improve the living conditions of the disadvantaged individuals in your community. They include those men and women who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other disadvantages that prevent them from breaking free from poverty.

We’ll sell your donated vehicle in one of the best auction houses in our network, with the proceeds going to the local Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits use the funding to deliver vital services to disadvantaged Americans, providing them with job training and employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

Donating to Goodwill Car Donations means getting your unwanted vehicle picked up and towed away at zero cost to you. It also means getting entitled to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

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

Making a car donation to Goodwill is super easy. It’s quick, convenient, and hassle-free! All you need to do is contact us. We’ll handle everything else. 

We accept a wide range of vehicle types. Whether you’re donating a sedan, a truck, or a run-down boat, we’ll be glad to receive it.

Your location should not be a problem either. We can collect your donation wherever you are in the United States.

You can get more information about us, including our donation process and your benefits as a donor, by checking out our FAQs page. Should you have any questions or concerns, you may reach us at our toll-free hotline at 866-233-8586. You may also send us a message here.

Black SUV Parked | Goodwill Car Donations
Photo by Ihor Lypnytskyi under Pexels License

 

Make a Difference with Your Car Donation Today!

Donating to us your old and unwanted car is all it would take to make a difference in your community. Your gift will bring immense benefits to your disadvantaged neighbors. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!


Best Vehicles for High School Students

White Car on Dirt Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Borta under Pexels License

Choose from These 6 Top-rated Vehicles

Many parents usually get stressed and anxious when picking a car for their teens. They have to make sure that the vehicle is safe, reliable, and of course, affordable. Their search leads them to the question: Which models offer the right combination of safety and value?

Car shopping can get a little bit nerve-racking, especially when you’re looking for the perfect match for your high school student. The sheer volume of options can leave even the savviest car shopper feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. That is why it’s always a smart idea to do your research first before deciding to surprise your teenager with their first set of wheels.

To help you narrow down your choices, Goodwill Car Donations has rounded up 6 of the best vehicles for high school students.

  1. 2017 Jeep Renegade

If your high schooler prefers an SUV, the 2017 Jeep Renegade is definitely a great pick. Besides being the Jeep’s least expensive model, it’s also the most playful, judging by its style and character. This compact SUV is super easy to maneuver and park, and you can drive it off-road, too. As for fuel economy, we can say that it’s pretty good by SUV standards.

  1. 2017 Honda Fit

With a stellar reputation for reliability, Honda is a fantastic choice for your high school driver. Chances are, the car will last them through college and perhaps even into their early working years. The 2017 Honda Fit has a spacious interior despite appearing small on the outside. Plus, it comes with a backseat that flips and folds in various ways, making it a perfect storage for bulky cargo.

  1. 2017 Hyundai Elantra

Available as a hatchback or sedan, the 2017 Hyundai Elantra is another great pick for high school students. With its roomy interior, easy-to-use features, and good safety and reliability ratings, it’s no surprise that it ranks in the top half of the competitive compact car class. A bonus is that Hyundai cars have extended warranties.

  1. 2018 Chevrolet Spark

The 2018 Chevrolet Spark should be your leading pick if you’re looking for a car that’s small, affordable, and extremely safe. We’re saying extremely safe because it comes with 10 airbags and is subscribed to OnStar, a service that automatically calls for help if the car crashes. It’s also one of the least expensive cars on the market, giving you all the more reason to want to buy it for your youngster.

  1. 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid

If your high schooler is looking for an eco-friendly car, we strongly recommend the 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid. It’s small, inexpensive, and it gets great fuel economy, with the EPA giving it a rate of 55 MPG combined. This hybrid model encourages efficient driving. Teens who drive for maximum MPG (rather than maximum MPH) are less likely to get into a car crash.

  1. 2017 Subaru Impreza

Is your family living in a city where it usually rains or snows? If so, we suggest you pick the 2017 Subaru Impreza for your high schooler. As with all Subaru models, the Impreza comes standard with all-wheel drive, which means it’s extra surefooted during inclement weather. Just be sure to buy the basic 2.0-liter model, since the WRX or STI models are designed for skilled and experienced drivers.

 

Got an Unwanted Car? Use It to Help the Needy

Would you be willing to dispose of your unwanted car for the benefit of the impoverished and disadvantaged people in your community? When you donate such a vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations, you’ll make it possible for them to turn their lives around.

We will auction off your vehicle and transfer the funds to the Goodwill organization serving your area. Goodwill organizations are IRS-certified 501(c)3 nonprofits located in various parts of the United States.

These nonprofits cater to Americans who are suffering from disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other disadvantages that make living a struggle every day of their lives.

These Goodwill nonprofits make use of the funding that comes from our vehicle donation programs to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

It’s easy to donate to us. At Goodwill Car Donations, we make sure our donors get to experience a stress-free donation process. You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home. All you have to do is contact us online or by phone.

Your donation will entitle you to receive high-value rewards, including getting our professional vehicle towing service at no cost to you. Your gift will also qualify you to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community as once idle members get to harness their full potential, allowing them to enjoy stable and decent sources of income.

Feel free to donate nearly all vehicle types. We’ll accept anything you hand over to us with open arms, including those that are no longer in good condition. We’ll take vehicles that won’t start or run anymore.

Know more about Goodwill Car Donations, our mission, and our donation process by visiting our FAQs page. You can also call us at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message through our site’s contact form.

 

Be a Blessing to Others Today!

Photo of White Car on Wet Road | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Erik Mclean under Pexels License

If you have a beater that you want to part ways with, you have what it takes to become a blessing to the less fortunate people in your community. Donate it to Goodwill Car Donations by calling 866-233-8586 or filling out our online donation form now!


3 Best Vehicles for Commuting: 2021 Edition

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Know the Features You Should Look for in a Commuter Car

Is your daily commute becoming more stressful and frustrating? Longer and more complicated commutes may have compelled you to look for the right commuter car that offers more than just the comfort and space that can put your mind at ease. Your commuter car has to have excellent crash test ratings, remarkable fuel economy, impressive safety systems, and a good starting price.

What Car Should You Buy If You Commute Often

Traveling to work and other places using public transport may seem practical and economical at first. However, in the long run, that may no longer be the case. While purchasing a car may be a big investment, it still is the better choice.

You shouldn’t buy a car just for the sake of it. Look for one that has a reasonable price tag, ample safety features, a good fuel economy rating, and a spacious interior. If you’re going to spend a lot of time traveling using your car, you might as well enjoy the ride.

To help you find the right set of wheels, Goodwill Car Donations has compiled the best vehicles for commuting in 2021:

  1. Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is guaranteed to give you a safe, comfortable, and quiet ride that will make up for the stress of traffic. What’s more, you’ll love its ample cargo space and excellent gas mileage. When it comes to entertainment, its 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is compatible with Apple C  arPlay and Android Auto, won’t disappoint!

  1. BMW 3 Series

Do you want a more modern and sophisticated feel for your commuter car? Then the BMW 3 Series may just be the right choice for you. It comes with an AI personal assistant that responds to voice commands. It also has loads of safety and support features including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and assistants for reversing, steering, and lane-keeping.

  1. Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is a great choice for someone who’s looking to purchase a commuter car for practical reasons. It has a comfortable and quiet interior, user-friendly controls, outstanding safety features, as well as impressive entertainment via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the best part about the Honda Civic is its affordable price.

Looking for the Best Way to Dispose of Your Clunker?

You’re probably thinking of purchasing a new commuter car to replace the old one you have. If that’s the case, you’re probably thinking of how best to dispose of that clunker to find garage space for your new car.

Your best option is to simply donate that beater to us at Goodwill Car Donations. Once you inform us of your donation offer, we’ll have your unneeded vehicle towed away at no cost to you at a date and place of your convenience. What’s more, your donation will make you eligible to enjoy a top tax deduction in the next tax season.

Aside from the material rewards that you’ll get from your act of charity, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community, particularly its disadvantaged residents. These are the men and women living among you who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other personal issues that prevent them from finding decent sources of income and living productive and fulfilling lives.

We will sell your vehicle through an auction, with the proceeds going to the Goodwill organization serving your area. Located in various parts of the country, Goodwill organizations are IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits that are dedicated to providing life-changing assistance to disadvantaged Americans. They use the funding they get from our vehicle donation programs to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.

We accept almost all vehicle types, whether still in good running condition or no longer. You can donate anywhere in the United States since Goodwill Car Donations operates in all 50 states.

For more information about our vehicle donation program, visit our FAQs page. If you have questions, call us at 866-233-8586 or contact us online.

Turn Your Clunker into a Life-changer Today

You can turn your unwanted car, truck, van, or whatnot into a powerful tool that can transform lives in your community. Make a difference today by calling Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or filling out our secure online donation form now!

Red Sports Car | Goodwill Car Donations Photo by Deane Bayas under Pexels License