We understand how frustrating it can be to deal with a car that won't start. Whether it's a simple dead battery or a more serious issue like a seized engine, you might not know whether to repair it or not. At Wheels for Wishes, we want you to know that we accept donations of non-running vehicles, no matter their condition. You don’t have to worry about getting your car diagnosed or repaired; we’re here to help.
When you donate your vehicle, you not only get rid of the hassle but also have the opportunity to make a difference in a child's life. Our easy donation process ensures a quick and stress-free experience. You'll get a tax deduction while knowing that your vehicle can still play a role in helping grant wishes for kids in need.
✓What you don't need to worry about
- You don't need to diagnose the issue before donating.
- No repairs are necessary; we accept cars in any condition.
- You won’t have to pay for a tow; we handle that for you.
- Keys are optional; we can pick up your car without them.
- You can attempt one last jump-start before we arrive.
- We provide fast pickup and closure of your donation.
How pickup works for damaged vehicles
Schedule Your Pickup
Once you decide to donate, simply contact us to schedule a pickup time that works for you. We can often accommodate same-day pickups.
Flatbed Pickup
Our trained towing team will arrive with a flatbed truck to ensure the safe transport of your non-running vehicle. This method is safer than attempting to tow with wheels on the ground.
Confirm Condition (Optional)
If you choose, you can attempt a jump-start before we arrive, but it's not required. Just let us know about any known issues during scheduling.
Complete the Donation
Make sure you have your keys and title ready. We’ll guide you through the paperwork and provide you with a receipt for your tax deduction.
Honest value expectations
When donating a car that won’t start, it’s important to set realistic expectations on the value. If the issue is simply a dead battery or another minor repair, your vehicle might be valued closer to the running-condition range of $800 to $2,000. However, if it has more serious problems, like a seized engine, you may only see a value of $200 to $600 based on parts. This variance can significantly impact the proceeds from the sale of your vehicle.
Diagnose or donate?
If you're unsure about your vehicle's condition, consider the costs of diagnostics versus the benefits of donating. Diagnostic fees can range from $200 to $800, and you might discover the repairs exceed that cost. By donating your vehicle, you skip the hassle and uncertainty, plus make a meaningful contribution to a great cause.
Wyoming pickup specifics
In Wyoming, the density of towing services, particularly for flatbed pickups, is sufficient, so you won’t have to worry about finding a company that can handle your non-running vehicle. Be aware of the state's abandoned vehicle ordinances; by donating instead of leaving a car to sit, you’re not only helping a child but also adhering to local regulations.