When is the Right Time to Donate a Car to Charity?

Donating a car to charity is a great way to get rid of an older vehicle that you no longer need or want. When you donate a car to a non-profit organization like Goodwill, youll be helping your community, and you could even receive a tax benefit for your generous donation! 

But how do you know when its time to donate a car to charity? If youre on the fence, here are a few signs that tell you the timing is right:

2006 Jeep Liberty Front
2006 Jeep Liberty at Ohio Valley Goodwill Auto Auction

#1: Maintenance and repairs are getting too expensive

There comes a time when keeping an older car running just isnt worth the time, money, and effort. Along with tasks like changing the oil and replacing the tires or brake pads, cars often require costly repairs to the engine, transmission, or electronic systems when they get closer to 100,000 miles. Fixing these issues may end up costing you more than the car is worth! If this is the case, consider donating your car to a reputable charity like Ohio Valley Goodwill. Our car donation program accepts vehicles in any condition. If your car isnt running, you can even schedule a tow free of charge!

#2: Youre ready to upgrade to a newer car

Even if your current car is running fine, you may reach a time in life when you need a different type of vehicle. For example, you may want to upgrade to a minivan or SUV as your family grows. Or, maybe youre doing more driving, and you need to switch from a gas-guzzling truck to a more fuel-efficient compact car. When youre ready to upgrade your vehicle, consider donating your old car to Goodwill! You could receive a tax benefit for donating your car, helping you get money back to put towards your next vehicle purchase.

#3: You want to free up much-needed space

An older car sitting in your driveway or garage can create an eyesore and take up valuable space on your property. If youre not using it, consider freeing up some space by donating your car to charity. Youll be glad you did!

#4: You dont have time to sell a car

If youre holding onto a car you dont want or need, you may have considered selling it. However, selling a used car via private party can be a very time-consuming undertaking! Avoid the stress and hassle of trying to sell your car by donating it to Goodwill instead. Simply fill out a donation form, drop off your vehicle, and well take care of the rest!

1994 Mazda Miata Front
1994 Mazda Miata at Ohio Valley Goodwill Auto Auction

#5: You want to make a difference in your community

When it comes down to it, theres never a bad time to donate a car to Goodwill. Why? Because donating your car is a great way to make a difference in your community! When you donate a car to Goodwill, you can be confident that your vehicle will go on to make a positive impact in Cincinnati.

After we receive your vehicle donation, its prepared for our weekly auto auction. Not only will a new buyer put your used vehicle to good use, but the proceeds raised will support life-changing programs and services for individuals with disabilities, veterans, and others facing barriers to employment.

Donate a Car. Change a Life.
Donate a Car. Change a Life.

Ohio Valley Goodwill is Cincinnatis original auto auction and a non-profit partner you can trust. Weve built our entire auto donation auction process in-house, which means theres no outside (for-profit) auction company getting a cut of your car donation. The value created by your donation stays right here in Greater Cincinnati, helping people go to work!

Ready to donate a car in Cincinnati?

Become a job creator in your community by donating a car to Goodwill in Cincinnati! Fill out a donation form to get started today.