Here’s a Guide to Finding the Best Car for Your College Student
One of the most exciting yet stressful times for parents is when they send their high school graduates off to college. You’ll have to help them set up their dorm room, register for their classes, and purchase their books.
Another important task that you need to cross off your to-do list is picking the best car for them. However, before you start shopping, you need to narrow down your options by making a list of must-have car features which you’d want your college student to have. You also have to consider where they’ll drive their car and how far they’ll have to drive to get to and from school. Of course, you also have to consider your budget.
What Are the 3 Best Vehicles for College Students?
If your college-age kid lives far from campus, the flexibility that comes with on-demand access to a private and personal vehicle is extremely convenient. To help you make the right choice, Goodwill Car Donations pulled together a list of the best vehicles for college students.
Jeep Wrangler
Aside from being fun to drive, a Jeep Wrangler is also a great choice for riding around on campus. Your college student won’t have a hard time driving it on weekends or during spring break. Whether they decide to go off-roading with their besties or take their vehicle to the beach, a Wrangler can take them anywhere in style.
Mazda 3
The Mazda 3 is a practical choice for a college student who spends most of their time on campus. Although it’s big enough to accommodate 5 people, this car is small enough to fit in crowded parking spaces. What’s more, its fuel efficiency also makes it less of a financial burden.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is an eco-friendly vehicle that offers the best car mileage and comfortable seating. It’s the best choice for college kids who are looking to save some money on gas. Additionally, this car handles well and is known for its reliability. Its large cargo area makes it extremely easy for your young driver to pack up when they travel to school or head out off-campus for a weekend drive.
Turn Your Old Clunker Into a Life-changing Tool
Are you planning to get rid of an old and unwanted car to make room for a new one? The easiest and most rewarding way to do that is by simply donating that vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations.
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. These will particularly benefit residents who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other disadvantages that prevent them from living productive and fulfilling lives.
We will auction off your donated vehicle and turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organization serving your area. Spread throughout the country, Goodwill organizations are IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits that cater to disadvantaged Americans. They use the funding we give them to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.
These are all meant to equip needy individuals with the tools that will help them attain economic independence and a better quality of life.
To find out the details of our vehicle donation process, and other relevant information, visit our FAQs page. For your questions and concerns, call us at 866-233-8586 or contact us here.
What Are You Waiting For?
Donating an unneeded vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations means helping your community, enjoying free towing services, getting a top tax deduction, and much more! Call us at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!
Detect the Problem Early to Save Yourself from Hefty Repair Bills
The transmission serves a vital role in your car and contains hundreds of components, all smoothly working together to make sure your car runs just fine so you can get to your destination without any hitch. Mounted directly on the engine, the transmission converts the engine’s combustion power to momentum, which drives the wheels. It’s responsible for changing the gears of your vehicle’s engine. Without it, you can’t expect your car to move.
There are two transmission types: manual transmission and automatic transmission. Manual transmission requires the driver to physically shift the vehicle into the different gears using a clutch and a shifter (also known as the shift knob). Automatic transmission, on the other hand, does most of the work for the driver. Here, the clutch is no longer present. The gearbox is also simplified, only requiring the driver to put their focus on the gas pedal and the brakes.
Both transmission types have their own advantages and disadvantages. Automatic transmission is often costlier in terms of maintenance and repairs compared to its manual counterpart.
As with most car parts, being able to identify your car’s transmission problem early on can help save you from potential massive headaches and hefty repair bills. It can also save you from running into dangerous situations on the road.
If you drive your car daily you should be able to tell if something’s off. Is your car revving much higher than usual? Do you hear loud noises when you’re speeding up? Do you smell something weird coming from your engine? These can all point to a probable transmission problem. If you experience these warning signs, you should get your car checked as soon as possible. Ignoring these tell-tale signs can make things worse.
3 Signs of a Transmission Problem
Transmission problems are complex. They can be as simple as a fluid change or replacing a few worn-out parts. However, the problems can be complicated, requiring extensive and expensive repairs.
Take a look at these 3 common signs that your transmission might be going bad or failing:
Strange sounds
Do you hear a strange humming, whining, or buzzing sound? Do you feel as if something’s grinding every time you shift a gear? Manual and automatic transmissions both have unique tell-tale signs that they’re about to go bad or if there’s a problem. Don’t dismiss odd noises, especially if you hear them constantly whenever you’re driving.
Transmission slipping
Automatic and manual transmissions both have a clutch system. Over time, this will eventually wear down and you’ll experience transmission slipping while trying to change into the next gear. If things get worse, it’ll come to a point where the transmission seizes and won’t engage anymore, leaving you with a car that’s pretty much stuck in place.
Weird smells
Transmission systems have their own fluids designed to lubricate all the gears and ensure that everything’s synchronized. Over time, or if your vehicle is constantly being driven over long distances, the fluids can leak or burn inside the transmission. If you smell something weird or if you see red fluid leaking under your car, head on over to the repair shop and get your transmission serviced.
Think Your Car Is Useless? No, It Isn’t if You Do This!
Do you think your car’s transmission is failing? Is this just one of several car problems you’re dealing with? Don’t worry. Even if your car is plagued with so many issues, it’s not entirely useless. You can still squeeze out some benefits from it while giving it a worthy purpose — that of improving the lives of the struggling disadvantaged residents in your area. You can do that by turning over 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 prevent them from landing decent jobs and living poverty-free lives.
We’ll have your car auctioned off, using the proceeds to fund the community development programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your area. 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.
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.
Your old car may seem useless to you, but we can convert it into a weapon to fight poverty in your area. If you care for your community and the people who live there, then donating that vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations makes a lot of sense. Call 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!
How to Recognize a Blown Engine: Signs and What You Can Do
Worried that your engine may be in trouble? This post shows you how to spot warning signs before the problem gets worse. You’ll learn how a blown motor can affect your vehicle’s performance and safety, what causes serious engine damage (like overheating or water getting inside), and how to catch early signs like dashboard lights, strange sounds, and smoke. Knowing what to look for can help you take action before the damage becomes costly or dangerous. You’ll also learn what your options are, including how to turn your damaged vehicle into something meaningful.
A Damaged Engine Can Pose Dangers to You and Other Drivers
Owning a car means keeping up with regular checkups, maintenance, and repairs. If you drive every day, staying on top of this care is even more important.
Small repairs like new brake pads or tires are common and manageable. Engine trouble can be much more serious.
Your engine keeps your vehicle running. If it fails, your car may no longer be able to move. A damaged engine affects performance, fuel efficiency, and safety. It can put you and others at risk every time you’re on the road.
Engines can fail for many reasons. One major cause is engine overheating, often due to low or leaking engine coolant. Another is hydrolocking, which happens when your motor vehicle drives through deep water and the engine cylinders fill with liquid, causing the system to stall or fail.
To lower the risk of these problems, follow your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes and checkups can help prevent small issues from becoming big engine trouble.
3 Signs That Your Car Has a Blown Engine
A blown engine does not always fail without giving you warning signs. In many cases, your car will show signs that something is wrong before the engine reaches the point of complete failure. Still, one symptom by itself does not always mean your engine is blown.
Pay attention when multiple symptoms appear together or when your vehicle suddenly behaves differently. Severe knocking, overheating, heavy smoke, or major power loss are good reasons to stop driving and have the vehicle inspected. A professional inspection can show whether you need a smaller repair or have serious damage inside the engine.
1. Check Engine Light Is On
Your check engine light can come on for many reasons, so it does not automatically mean your motor is blown. Still, do not ignore it, especially if you notice other warning signs at the same time. A steady check engine light generally means your vehicle has detected a problem that should be diagnosed. A flashing light can indicate a more urgent issue, such as a severe misfire that could damage other components. Oil pressure and engine temperature warning lights can also point to conditions that put your engine at risk.
A mechanic can use diagnostic equipment to read trouble codes stored in your vehicle. These codes give the mechanic a place to start, but they do not always show the full cause. If your warning lights appear with overheating, knocking noises, smoke, or poor performance, schedule an inspection promptly.
2. Car Performance Has Dropped
Engine trouble often becomes clear when you notice changes in how your vehicle drives. You might press the accelerator and find that your car struggles to gain speed. Other warning signs can include:
Rough idling
Frequent stalling
Engine misfires
Shaking
Difficulty starting
Declining fuel efficiency
These symptoms can happen when your engine cannot produce power as it should. Loss of compression, overheating, damaged internal components, or combustion problems are just a few possible causes.
Not every performance problem means your engine is blown. Problems with the fuel, ignition, transmission, or exhaust systems can create similar symptoms. However, sudden or severe changes in performance should be taken seriously, particularly when they occur with unusual engine sounds or warning lights.
3. More Smoke Than Usual
Your exhaust can give you useful clues about what may be happening inside your engine. A small amount of temporary vapor can be normal, particularly during cold weather. But ongoing clouds of colored or very thick smoke can point to a problem.
The smoke color can help point to possible problems:
Blue smoke may indicate that engine oil is entering the combustion chamber and burning with the fuel.
Thick white smoke can be a sign that coolant is entering the engine, potentially because of a damaged head gasket or another internal problem.
Black smoke generally indicates that the engine is burning too much fuel.
Pay attention to other symptoms as well. Smoke accompanied by overheating, unusual odors, low oil or coolant levels, knocking, or significant power loss can signal a serious problem. Instead of continuing to drive and risking more damage, have a mechanic check the vehicle.
Answers to Common Questions About Blown Engines
There is no guaranteed safe distance to drive when you suspect serious engine damage. Continuing to operate the vehicle could damage pistons, bearings, connecting rods, the crankshaft, cylinder head, or engine block. A problem that might have been repairable can become a complete engine failure.
If you notice the signs, pull over somewhere safe and shut off the engine. Towing the vehicle to a repair shop can help you avoid making the damage worse.
Diagnosing a blown motor often requires special knowledge and equipment. Even if you are comfortable performing basic maintenance, internal engine repairs are much more complicated than changing oil, replacing filters, or installing a battery.
For example, a mechanic may perform compression or leak-down testing to determine what is happening inside the cylinders. Misdiagnosing the problem could lead you to replace unnecessary parts or accidentally cause further damage during disassembly and reassembly.
There are safety risks to consider, too. Hot engine components, pressurized fluids, electrical systems, and improperly supported vehicles can create hazards for inexperienced DIY mechanics.
Basic checks can give you useful information, but suspected internal engine damage usually needs a professional diagnosis. A qualified mechanic can determine the extent of the damage and explain whether repairing, rebuilding, or replacing the engine makes the most sense.
Before agreeing to a major repair, ask for an estimate. Compare the expected repair cost with your vehicle’s age, mileage, overall condition, reliability, and value. If extensive engine work costs more than you are comfortable investing in an older vehicle, replacing or getting rid of the car may be more practical.
Give your mechanic as much helpful information as you can. Write down when the problem started and whether it happens during startup, idling, acceleration, or highway driving. Note any warning lights, smoke colors, strange odors, leaks, overheating, knocking sounds, or changes in performance. If you have maintenance and repair records, bring those as well. They can help the mechanic understand the vehicle’s history and identify possible causes more efficiently.
Most importantly, do not keep starting or driving a vehicle that may have serious engine damage. If you are unsure whether the car is safe to operate, arrange for towing instead of risking additional damage on the way to the repair shop.
Your Busted Car Still Has Value: Use It to Help Those in Need
Finding out that your engine is blown can feel overwhelming. Repairs can cost a lot, and there is no guarantee your car will be like new again.
But a blown engine does not make your car worthless. You can still put it to good use by donating it to help people in your community who need support. You can do that by handing over that clunker to us at Goodwill Car Donations.
At Goodwill Car Donations, we accept vehicles in almost any condition. We’ll tow your vehicle for free, do any necessary fixes, and sell it at auction. The proceeds help support Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits provide job training, employment assistance, education, and support for people with disabilities, criminal records, or barriers to employment. That old vehicle can help change someone’s life.
To donate, you only need to contact us. We’ll handle everything else from that point on, including picking up and towing your vehicle at absolutely no cost to you. Plus, your donation may qualify you for a maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.
Your gift can also help you feel good knowing you supported people in your community who could use a hand. You can donate almost any type of vehicle even if it’s already in bad condition.
We handle the paperwork. We cover the towing. All you need to do is get in touch and we’ll take care of the rest.
For more information about our simple vehicle donation process and other common questions, check out our FAQs page . If you have questions, call us at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.
Ready to turn your broken-down vehicle into something that gives back?
Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form today. You’ll clear space in your garage, help your neighbors, and potentially save money on your taxes.
If you’re looking to travel in style and comfort, you may want to invest in sprucing up your RV camper for your ultimate family getaway. Traveling by RV has been a preferred mode of transport by families and friends going on a road trip. This is because it is much cheaper than getting plane tickets. You can also save on the cost of accommodation when you’re traveling in a group.
RV travel is economical and practical. You can bring your own food and save on spending on fast food and restaurants. After you allot a budget for the gas and other related expenses, you’re pretty much all set.
Best of all, you don’t have to spend the entire driving time cramped in the confines of a small van. This helps you appreciate the sights and the company of your family or friends even better.
If you’re looking for ideas for your next RV upgrade, we’ve scoured the internet for some great ideas to convert your home away from home into the ultimate venue for traveling in style.
It’s like you never left home.
Some people want to be as comfortable as possible when they travel. This post on Pinterest showcases a living area that would be a match for any small home. The minimalistic style and elements that perfectly complement each other are a designers’ dream.
Get more free spaces.
This entry from RV Inspiration showcases the possibilities when you decide to remove your dining booth and replace it with tables and chairs or built-in furniture. Spaces can be freed up for a wider and airier feel. You can take your pick of furniture that will look well with your interior. As an alternative, you can also have your furniture customized for added storage. This would come in handy when you’re making a long trip.
Spell cozy.
Just because you’re on a road trip doesn’t mean you have to leave the comfort of home. This idea from VanClan showcases a design that will inspire you to curl up with a blanket to read a book or magazine. Even with the small space, the choice of lighting and furniture provides an ambiance of relaxation, similar to that of a small cafe.
It’s small but stylish.
Toilets in RVs are notoriously cramped, but it doesn’t mean they can’t be stylish. With the right design, you can maximize every space by becoming more organized. This entry from fourgonlesite is an example of a minimalist yet functional RV toilet.
Here’s theultimate bedtime experience.
The point of traveling by RV is to save on hotel costs, but maximizing the limited space and ensuring the members of your party sleep soundly and comfortably are big challenges. When converting your RV, you may want to check out how others have used space good for two people to fit three while making it seem like a perfect space to tuck in at night. The beddings also play an important role here.
Use Your Old RV as an Instrument of Hope
If you think it is too much of a stretch to invest in the remodeling of your old RV or camper, if that old clunker has no more use for you, you can find another purpose for it that can benefit you and the less fortunate people in your community. That will happen when you turn over that RV, or any other unwanted vehicle that you have, to us at Goodwill Car Donations. We will use your donation to help the disadvantaged people in your area harness their full potential so they can live productive and fulfilling lives. They include the men and women in your community who are suffering from disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other disadvantages (such as having prison records) that make it tough for them to land stable and decent-paying jobs.
We will put your donated vehicle up for auction. Once it is sold, we’ll turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your local area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged Americans. They use the funds that we turn over to them to provide their beneficiaries with job training, 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 for free. 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.
You can get more information about Goodwill Car Donations, including our donation process, by checking out our FAQs page. Should you have any questions or concerns, you may reach us at our toll-free hotline 866-233-8586. You may also contact us here.
Let’s turn your old RV into an instrument of hope for the jobless and poverty-stricken members of your community. Partner with us at Goodwill Car Donations by calling 866-233-8586 or filling out our online donation form now!
Your car’s suspension system not only keeps you comfortable in your seat while you drive. It also allows you to keep your vehicle stable and handle it well while it is in motion. Without such a system, your car would tumble sideways when you’re making a turn.
The suspension system also limits the shock of anything your car goes over on the road, such as humps and bumps. If your shock absorbers are broken or worn out, you’ll have a bumpy ride.
It’s important to have a basic idea about your vehicle’s suspension system. Several components make up the system. They include the chassis, which holds the cab of the car, the springs that support the vehicle weight and absorb and reduce road shocks, together with the shock absorbers and struts, and the anti-sway bar, which shifts the movement of the wheels and stabilizes the car.
Every vehicle has a recommended schedule for maintenance given by the manufacturer. Moving mechanical parts wear out over time, with some wearing out faster depending on the usage as well as usual driving conditions for the vehicle.
One of the things that mechanics would take a look at is your vehicle’s suspension system. When you have a bad suspension system, your car is less stable and you have reduced control over your vehicle. It can also have a domino effect on other parts of your car, damaging them.
The suspension system plays a big role in your car, so if you’re experiencing any sort of suspension issues or if you suspect something’s wrong, it’s best to head to an auto shop immediately.
Warning Signs That Can Mean You Need Suspension Repair
It’s in every driver’s best interest to make sure their suspension system is well maintained. Ignoring signs of possible suspension problems is not only irresponsible but can prove to be dangerous. Imagine losing the ability to properly turn your vehicle in the middle of a highway! You’ll put not only your own life at risk but those of your passengers and other drivers on the road as well.
Check out these 5 common signs that your suspension system needs a checkup
You feel like you’re in a bouncy castle.
Do you feel like your ride is bouncier than usual? You might want to take a look at your shock absorbers or struts. This is an obvious sign of a suspension issue.
Car dips or nosedives when you come to a stop.
When you come to a stop, your vehicle’s “nose” shouldn’t be lunging forward. When it does, the likely culprits are worn-out or broken shocks. This can cause your car to hit whatever is in front of you.
Tires are wearing out unevenly.
If you notice your tire treads are worn out more on one side compared to the other, this is a symptom that there’s something wrong with your suspension. Tire treads should wear out evenly and not appear more prominent on one side if your suspension system is doing its job correctly.
Pulling to a certain direction or drifting.
Drifting or pulling even though you’re not turning the wheel is a sign of a failing suspension system. It can affect your vehicle’s control and even increase your risk of a rollover.
Your wheel feels loose.
Does your steering wheel feel loose? Do you find yourself turning it more just to make an easy turn? Have your suspension system checked as this can mean either loose parts or worn-out components.
Don’t Know What to Do with Your Clunker? Donate it to Us!
Having a faulty suspension system is one of the biggest problems that any driver can encounter. If this is just one of the many problems you’re having with your car and the costs of having them repaired are too much for you, perhaps it’s time to retire that clunker.
If you’re thinking of what to do with that vehicle, your best option is to donate it to a charity that will provide you great benefits while allowing you to support a worthy cause that will benefit the needy people in your community. You’ll achieve both goals when you turn over that vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations.
We will sell your vehicle through an auction and use the proceeds to support the community development programs of the Goodwill organizations serving your local area. These are IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits that cater to disadvantaged Americans. They include the men and women in your locality who are saddled with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other personal issues (such as having prison records) that pull them down every time they try to break free from poverty.
These Goodwill nonprofits use 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. Such services can turn your underprivileged neighbors into self-reliant and productive individuals.
While you help them with your car donation, you’ll also get outstanding rewards yourself, such as getting our free towing service at your convenience and getting entitled to receive the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.
We take nearly all types of vehicles, including those that have faulty suspension systems and other problems. You may head over to this page to get a comprehensive list of the types of vehicles acceptable to us. You can donate anywhere in the country since Goodwill Car Donations operates in all 50 states.
To learn more about our vehicle donation program, feel free to visit our FAQs page. Contact us at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here if you have any questions or concerns.
Even if your car has a defective suspension system and some other problems, it still holds some value. This is enough to make a difference in the lives of the disadvantaged people in your area. Free yourself from your car troubles while doing something good for your community. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!
When driving, there are things you can and can’t control. A lot can go wrong on the road and sometimes there’s just nothing you can do about it. Even the safest drivers can get into accidents, no matter how defensive their driving style is. Distracted drivers, bad weather, nasty road conditions — these are just some examples of factors that you can’t do anything about.
Sometimes, mechanical failures can be the reason for you to get into an accident. It’s estimated that 13% of all vehicular accidents are caused by such failures, which is why regular maintenance to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape is one of the most important responsibilities you have as a car owner and as a driver.
The 3 Mechanical Problems That Can Happen to Your Car
Whether due to normal wear and tear, improper maintenance, or the manufacturer’s defects, mechanical problems are sometimes unavoidable. Count yourself lucky if you’ve owned a vehicle for a few years and you’ve never experienced a mechanical problem.
Take a look at 3 of the more common mechanical problems that car owners experience.
Dead starter
You put your key in the ignition, turn it, but nothing happens. All you hear is a click or several clicking sounds. A dead start is usually caused by one of two things: Your starter has failed or you’ve got a dead battery. A dead battery is quickly resolved by having it replaced. If the problem is with your starter, you have to get your car towed to the car shop and have a mechanic diagnose what the exact problem is.
Bad alternator
Your alternator is responsible for keeping your battery in check. When you have a faulty alternator, either you won’t be able to start your car or your vehicle will break down while you’re driving. If you have constant issues with your battery, hear a weird rattling noise from your engine, and experience electrical failure, the likely suspect is your alternator.
Spark plugs
A vehicle’s spark plugs aren’t going to last forever. They have a shelf life and will fail eventually, sometimes at the worst possible moments. Having bad spark plugs means your vehicle will run at lower speeds and eat up more fuel. Sometimes, it can also lead to issues on starting up your vehicle.
Let That Old Clunker Go!
If you’re experiencing car mechanical problems far too often and you’ve already spent a fortune on car repairs, perhaps it’s your car telling you to let it go. You’d be better off disposing of that clunker and getting a new ride.
If you’re looking for the best way of retiring your auto, talk to us at Goodwill Car Donations and we’ll show you the awesome benefits you’ll get if you simply turn over that vehicle to us.
We’ll put your vehicle up for auction with the proceeds going to the Goodwill organizations serving your local area. These organizations are IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits that cater to disadvantaged Americans or those who are saddled with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other personal issues (such as having prison records) that hamper their search for decent and stable sources of income.
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 this will qualify you 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.
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.
Say ‘Hello’ to Great Opportunities for the Needy Today!
Say goodbye to your clunker and your main source of headaches. Turn it into a great source of opportunities for advancement in life that will benefit the disadvantaged residents of your community. Do that by turning it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations. Call us at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!
Not everyone who buys a car has the interest to understand its various parts and how they function. Many vehicle owners see their ride as simply a machine that they use to comfortably go to work and avoid taking a ride inside a crowded subway train or bus. It’s a thing that they simply fill with gas to take them to wherever they want.
The car that we often take for granted, however, is a remarkable machine showcasing human ingenuity and topnotch engineering. Behind the hood of your vehicle lies years of innovation and research, all bundled together to create today’s efficient and high-tech automobile. At its heart lies the powerful internal combustion engine, the main reason why your vehicle can start and move.
Whether you’re driving a Corolla or the latest Porsche model, the engine inside it works the same way. It converts energy from the heat of burning gasoline into torque, which is then applied to the wheels and allows your car to move.
The engine is composed of multiple parts that include the gaskets, air filters, the timing belt, and the manifolds. All of these parts smoothly work together to make your car run. If a single component gets damaged and performs poorly, your engine’s performance will be affected. Worse, a damaged component can cause damages to the other parts of your engine, causing you to suffer a car breakdown.
Don’t Let These Car Engine Problems Happen to You
Car owners agree that experiencing an engine problem is one of the worse things that can happen to them. You wouldn’t want to be caught in the middle of nowhere with a busted engine! Engine problems are also notoriously hard to diagnose and often expensive to repair.
You can mitigate the chances of engine issues by following the manufacturer’s recommended schedule for car maintenance. However, not everyone follows recommendations to the letter. Some vehicles can even go unchecked or serviced by their owners for years.
Early detection of possible engine problems is the key. Take a look at the top 3 common car engine problems experienced by car owners.
Worn-out or faulty spark plugs
Spark plugs may be small in size but they play a big role in the performance of your car’s engine. Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the engine cylinders to produce energy that moves your car. Worn-out spark plugs are easily solved by simply replacing them. However, a damaged spark plug can cause the engine to misfire, affecting its performance, and damaging other car parts.
To avoid engine problems, spark plugs need to be replaced every 30,000 miles. This is part of regular servicing carried out in most auto repair centers.
Faulty oxygen sensor
Your car’s oxygen sensor monitors how much unburned oxygen is present in the exhaust as the exhaust exits the engine. By monitoring oxygen levels, the sensor provides a means of measuring fuel mixture.
A faulty oxygen sensor can impact your engine’s timing, combustion intervals, and other essential functions. You’ll also experience stalling or slow acceleration
You’ll know that your oxygen sensor is failing and needs replacement when you have reduced gas mileage, a bad smell like rotten eggs comes from the exhaust, the check engine light comes on, your engine idles roughly, and your car is suddenly hard to start.
Clogged radiator
The radiator cools the engine and prevents it from overheating. To absorb the heat, the car’s engine uses coolant to absorb the heat. It then transfers the fluid to the radiator where it cools down. Once it cools, the coolant is sent back into the engine and the process starts over again.
When your radiator is clogged, not enough cooling takes place inside the engine. This can result in your car overheating. If this problem persists, your engine may suffer permanent damage.
Signs of a clogged radiator include high temperature gauge readings, coolant leaks, fluid discoloration, exterior radiator fins blocked, and bent or damaged fins on the radiator.
Is Your Old Car Giving You Lots of Headaches?
If you’ve been experiencing car engine problems despite several trips to the repair shop, perhaps your old car is telling you that it’s time for you to retire it. Give it up before something bad happens to you on the road.
If you’re thinking of how to properly retire your old ride, your best option is to turn it over to a charity that will provide you the best benefits while using your donation to support a cause close to your heart. When you hand over such a vehicle to us at Goodwill Car Donations, you can put check marks on those two points.
We will auction off your donated 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 seek to empower individuals saddled with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other disadvantages such as having a prison record.
These Goodwill nonprofits 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 the joy of knowing that you’ll be helping less fortunate folks in your community 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.
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 write to us here.
Donate Your Clunker to Support a Worthy Cause Today!
Free yourself from the troubles of owning a problematic auto by using it to help the disadvantaged residents in your area. Your gift can make a difference in their lives. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!
Haven’t started preparing your tax papers yet? Are you waiting until the last minute to file your taxes? Well, be sure to do it before Tax Day, which has been extended from April 15th to May 17th this year. The IRS extended the tax-filing due date as its way of easing the burdens posed on taxpayers by the continuing coronavirus pandemic. Nevertheless, even with the new deadline for 2021, the IRS encourages taxpayers to file their tax returns as soon as possible.
Despite your hectic schedule, you’ll need to make time to get all your paperwork in order. Sure, it might look overwhelming at first, but once you know the ins and outs of tax-filing, it will be a breeze.
Here are some important tips to help you keep things running as smoothly as possible when you file your income tax return:
Gather your documents.
By the end of January, you should have already received all the tax documents you need from your employer as well as from brokerage firms, banks, and others with whom you have a business. Be sure that you check each form to see if the information matches your own records. Below are the most common docs:
Form W-2 (if you’re employed)
1099 forms (if you’re self-employed or a freelancer)
1098 forms (tax deductions from mortgage interest)
Profit and loss statements (if you’re a business owner)
Form W-2G (if you had gambling winnings)
Previous-year tax returns
Check for typos or errors.
Before submitting your tax papers, see to it that you’ve double-checked every single piece of them for typos. This will spare you from frustration and a lot of wasted time. You wouldn’t want to get back in a queue and wait for another hour just because of a single grammatical or spelling mistake.
Bring additional documents.
The IRS might ask for your Social Security number, so it’s a good idea to have a photocopy of your Social Security card. You might also want to prepare your tax credit forms to help you reduce your taxable income.
Consider getting help from a tax professional.
If you often have difficulty filing your taxes or you just don’t have the time for it, you might as well work with a qualified professional. Apart from preparing your income tax returns, they can help you take advantage of any credits or deductions you’re entitled to. They’ll also take care of gathering the right tax and financial data from your investment accounts. Additionally, your tax consultant can provide you with income tax projections, including quarterly estimated payments.
Maximize the use of free tax services.
If you have annual earnings of $66,000 or less, you can utilize the “Free File” software developed by the IRS to help you file your taxes. For seniors, people with disabilities, and those who make less than $55,000 a year, tax-filing doesn’t have to be a hassle if they sign up for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.
Don’t hesitate to request an extension.
Are you apprehensive that you might miss the tax payment deadline? Don’t worry, you can always ask for a six-month extension. However, you’ll still need to estimate the amount of tax you owe and pay that amount by the regular May 17th deadline to avoid any penalties.
Get a Top Tax Deduction and Transform Lives at the Same Time
How’s that possible, you ask? Well, simply donate an unwanted vehicle to us here at Goodwill Car Donations. Trust us, it’s that easy!
We’ll sell your clunker at an auction and use the proceeds to support the programs of the local Goodwill organization serving your area. Goodwill organizations spread throughout the country are IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits that have been working tirelessly for decades to support Americans burdened by disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other disabilities that prevent them from freeing themselves from poverty.
Through the funding they receive from us, they’re able to provide their beneficiaries with job training, job opportunities, livelihood assistance, internships, scholarships, disability benefits, and other essential community-building support services.
Thanks to your charitable contribution, the less fortunate individuals in your locality can now find opportunities to attain financial stability and live productive lives.
In exchange for your donation, we’ll send you the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your vehicle days after it gets sold. The receipt will entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction when you file your itemized federal income tax return in the next tax season.
Other than that, you’ll also benefit from the free pickup and towing service that we will provide you wherever you’re located in the United States.
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.
We accept pretty much all sorts of vehicles, including those that come with a few defective parts. For a comprehensive list of our qualified vehicles, head over to this page.
If you’re interested to learn more about our donation program, including our quick and easy donation process, visit our FAQs page. For inquiries, feel free to get in touch with us at 866-233-8586. You may also send us a message here and we’ll respond within one business day.
Are you ready to turn your ancient automobile into a life-changing instrument? Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!
In our society, people with disabilities are often underestimated and seen as less capable than those without handicaps. They’re often seen as having limited capabilities and even a liability to the workforce.
In 2020, only 17.9% of persons with disabilities were employed in the United States, down from 19.3% in the previous year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The figures show that a lot of employers are still grossly underestimating the potential of those with disabilities, opting to pass over their job applications in favor of those who aren’t handicapped.
The employment bias remains despite the signing of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) by President George H.W. Bush in 1990. The legislation was meant to open the door for the employment of millions of Americans with disabilities.
People with disabilities have proven time and again that they are capable of so much more than how society sees them. They can bring value to a business more than just being employees of a company.
In 2018, a study was made regarding businesses that actively sought to employ people with disabilities. It showed that the revenues of the businesses that hired persons with disabilities rose by 28%. Their net income also doubled compared to businesses that had no handicapped workers. Plus, their profit margins rose by 30%.
Moreover, the study found that the surveyed workforce with disabled members was happier than those from businesses with no handicapped workers, with employee retention averaging at around 90%. In short, the study showed that hiring persons with disabilities benefits not just those individuals but also the businesses that employ them.
The 5 Benefits That Employers Get for Hiring Persons With Disabilities
Employers derive numerous benefits and great value for including persons with disabilities in their workforce. Some of these workers can even outperform and bring better results than individuals without handicaps.
Take a look at the 5 benefits that employers get for hiring people who are living with a disability.
They’re fiercely loyal.
Handicapped workers are usually diligent, talented, and can be a great addition to any business workforce. When someone gives them the opportunity to work and be part of a company, they are usually thankful and return the favor with their unswerving loyalty to their employer.
They increase diversity in the company.
Diversity is good for any company or business. People with disabilities look at the world from a different point of view, meaning they can use their own perspectives and experiences to come up with innovative solutions to problems. They can also provide additional insights into a company’s customer base comprised of persons with disabilities, enabling the business to tailor their services or products better.
They expand a company’s talent pool.
Employers gain additional talents by recruiting individuals with disabilities. Employers are pleasantly surprised when these workers with special needs start leading their teams.
They boost job morale and corporate culture.
Hiring persons with disabilities shows that the employer is promoting a culture of inclusivity that looks beyond a person’s handicap. Handicapped workers can also serve as sources of motivation and inspiration for their able-bodied co-workers.
They are higher-performing individuals.
Many employers who recruit people with disabilities report higher work quality and greater work ethic. According to a study, 3 out of 4 employers found out that their handicapped workers are well-engaged, dependable, and highly motivated.
Help Change Lives for the Better By Donating Your Beater
Do you know that you can make a difference for people living with a disability? You can help uplift their lives by simply donating an old vehicle that you don’t want anymore to us at Goodwill Car Donations.
When you do this, you will be helping not just the handicapped folks in your community but also those who are burdened with a lack of education or essential skills and other disadvantages that make it hard for them to lift themselves from poverty.
We will auction off your donated vehicle and turn over the proceeds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofits cater to disadvantaged individuals and use the funding coming from charitable contributions to help finance the services they provide to their beneficiaries. These services include job and skills training, career opportunities, vocational and educational services, internship programs, financial support, disability benefits, and other critical community-building support services.
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.
Worried that we might not accept the vehicle you’re offering to donate? Throw your worries out the window! It’s because we accept a wide range of vehicle types such as sedans, motorcycles, pickup trucks, boats, and many others. Their condition won’t matter to us either. We’ll happily take your car donation even if it’s no longer in good condition or no longer running.
To get to know more about our 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 promptly respond to you. You may also give us a call at our toll-free hotline 866-233-8586. We’d be happy to hear from you!
Your old can surely transform the lives of the disadvantaged residents in your community. It will provide them a brighter future as they’ll get the opportunities to turn their lives around. Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!
If you’re wondering why April is National Car Care Month, it’s because it marks the end of winter, which means that it’s time to take your vehicle out for joyrides and long road trips once again. Before heading out to your first spring trip, however, you’ll need to get it back into tip-top shape since you pretty much left it sitting idly in your garage during winter. You’ll need to make sure that it’s all revved up and ready to take you to that getaway your heart has been longing for.
Maintaining your car is more than just ensuring its reliability and good performance. It also means minimizing roadside emergencies, saving you expensive repair costs, lowering your risk of accidents, and prolonging your automobile’s life. Now you know why it’s important to follow a regular maintenance schedule.
You can do many things to keep your car in tiptop shape, and we’d love nothing more than to share them with you.
Always drive with care.
Driving with care not only helps prevent accidents but also allows you to use your car for a longer period without having it undergo costly repairs. Avoid driving at high speeds and accelerating quickly, observe posted speed limits, don’t run over curbs, and keep your eyes peeled for potholes and objects on the road. Also, be sure to shift to neutral at red lights so that you’ll place less strain on your engine and automatic transmission.
Clean your car properly.
Sometimes, all your car needs is a good cleanup for it to run smoothly. Although you can always leave it to the professionals to do the dirty work, there’s nothing more fulfilling than washing and cleaning your vehicle yourself. Not to mention, you can save a lot of cash.
Here are several cleanup tips you might want to try:
Vacuum, vacuum, vacuum.
Vacuum all seats, the floor, and maybe even the trunk. Vacuum every area of your car where you can get the nozzle in, including the side door panels and under the pedals.
Apply foam rug cleaner to stubborn stains or your mat or carpet.
Do this after you vacuum them. Work the foam into a few square feet at a time, and use a brush or wet sponge.
Wipe away grime.
With your car vacuumed up, grab a soft cloth or cleaning wipes to wipe out all that dirt, dust, and sticky stuff. If you want, spray a small amount of car cleaner over the steering wheel, console, and the area between the seats to give your automobile a fresh new look.
Blast your mats using a water hose.
Drag out the carpet or rubber floor mats and blast them with water using a hose. This will dislodge dirt particles that can grind holes in your mats. Allow the mats to dry completely in the sun before you proceed to reinstall them.
Clean in and around all the nooks and crannies.
Clean around the trim lines and radio buttons using a cloth, and a paintbrush or foam brush for the air vents.
Wipe windows.
Spray your windows with a window cleaner solution and wipe thoroughly using a microfiber cloth or paper towel. If you prefer a natural agent, you can make your own by mixing one cup of water, one cup of rubbing alcohol, and two tablespoons of vinegar.
Keep leather from drying out and cracking.
While leather seats are durable and don’t require a lot of maintenance, they can still become soiled and may crack over the years. Remove dirt and stains with a leather cleaner, after which you should apply a leather protectant formulated for pigmented or top-coated grain leather. Use a leather conditioner to replenish the natural oils in the leather and prevent cracking and fading.
Take out any unnecessary items from your trunk.
Remove stuff that you no longer need from your trunk. Doing so not only lets you regain extra storage space but also helps you save on gas mileage.
Protect car paint from the sun.
Besides making your car look pleasing to the eyes, paint is also the first line of defense against rusted body panels. The best way to protect it from the sun’s UV rays is by parking it in your garage. When outside, you can park it in the shade or use a car cover instead.
Fix paint chips as soon as you can.
Since touch-up paint doesn’t adhere well to rust, it’s helpful to keep one on hand in case you discover any minor nicks. Be sure to retouch immediately before rust starts to form.
Don’t carry too much load.
Exceeding your car’s weight limit or roof load specifications can easily lead to wear and tear. If you need to bring heavy furniture or equipment, consider having it delivered instead. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for these specs.
Secure your loads.
An improperly stowed load brings nothing but dents and scratches to your car. Consider investing in racks for cargo, luggage, and bicycles. If you drive a pickup truck, a good tip in keeping tall objects from sliding around in its bed is by using a shower curtain rod as a brace.
Convert Your Spare Clunker into a Life-Changer
If you happen to own an extra automobile or another type of vehicle that you no longer use, you might want to think about disposing of it for a worthy cause. By handing it over to us at Goodwill Car Donations, you’ll help improve the lives of the residents in your community who are burdened with disabilities, lack of education or essential skills, and other disadvantages that prevent them from living productively. You’ll help free them from a life of misery.
We’ll auction off your vehicle and distribute the generated funds to the Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits will then use the money to provide their beneficiaries with job training, employment opportunities, livelihood assistance, scholarships, disability benefits, and other community-building support services. Such services will enable the disadvantaged members of your community to reach their full potential and find decent jobs.
In exchange for your contribution, we’ll send you the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your vehicle days after it gets sold. We will also be the ones to tow your car away at a time, date, and place of your choice. We offer free towing in all parts of the country.
Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction in doing something that will benefit your entire community as once idle residents become self-reliant and financially stable.
We take pretty much all sorts of vehicles, regardless of their age or condition. You may head over to this page to learn what they are.
If you have any concerns, give us a call at our toll-free hotline 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here. Visit our FAQs page for more information on our donation process.
Do Something Extraordinary This National Car Care Month
Are you ready to part ways with your unwanted car and give it a new purpose? Get in touch with Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form now!
We operate in all 50 states
For more information regarding the car donation process in your area, click on your state below!
Photo by Zsolt Joo under Pexels License
Photo by Sofia Alejandra under Pexels License
