How to Get Rid of a Car That Doesn't Run
If you have a broken-down vehicle that needs more attention than you can give it, it's time to find out how to get rid of a car that doesn't run.
Your old clunker finally gave up the ghost, and when you tried to trade it in for a new car, the dealer laughed. So how do you get rid of a vehicle that doesn't run? We've got five ideas to help you get that clunker out of your driveway.
5. Sell it Privately
You may still be able to put some cash in your pocket by selling your old clunker on your own. You'll need to be realistic about the value of the car. You should also be upfront with potential buyers if you're expecting them to tow it themselves and negotiate the price accordingly.
Of course, like any private car sale, you'll have the hassle of placing advertisements and meeting prospective buyers, which comes with its own set of safety concerns.
4. Sell it to a Junk Service for Cash
Although many junk removal services expect payment for hauling away non-running cars, some will pay you for your old vehicle. Make sure to negotiate a price that includes the cost of towing, so you don't get hit with a surprise charge that nets you less money than you expected.
3. Sell it for Parts
Are you handy with tools and know your way around a car? You can sell your old vehicle off for parts. Some makes and models have a high demand for parts, so you may be able to make significantly more money selling it in pieces versus trying to sell the whole car.
The caveat to this option is, having a dismantled vehicle in the driveway is unsightly. If you have particularly persnickety neighbors, you may face complaints from the Homeowners' Association. So, you'll want to clear space in your garage or backyard shed to stash your car parts.
2. Sell it to a Mechanic or Body Shop
Some auto repair and body shops use disabled vehicles either as spare parts or for their service technicians' continuing education. You'll want to be sure to have them evaluate your automobile before settling on a price. If the shop doesn't know how they will end up using the car, it may be challenging to negotiate a price.
1. Donate it to a Charity
Donating your car may be your most profitable option. Many charities will come and pick up the vehicle at no charge, and you're more likely to get a better value for the car and potentially save big on your taxes.
There are hundreds of charities throughout the United States who accept vehicle donations. If you haven't had success trying to sell your car, you can get a tax deduction by donating it to a 501(c)(3) non-profit.
When you gift your vehicle to a charity, you'll get a receipt for the car's fair market value, which you can use when you file your tax returns.
The Right Charity Matters
The charity you choose can make a difference, not only in the amount of your tax deduction but in the value that your donation offers to the community.
If you're in the Greater Minneapolis area of Minnesota, you can donate your disabled car to Newgate School. Newgate provides vocational training in auto mechanics and auto body repair at no cost to young adults from disadvantaged homes.
In addition to training students for a stable, well-paying career in the auto industry, Newgate also has a Wheels for Women program. This program helps working single mothers by giving them a car.
When you donate your vehicle, the Newgate School staff will pick up the car and evaluate it immediately to ensure you get the largest possible tax deduction. So, you save money on your tax bill while giving a helping hand to local men and women looking for financial stability and independence.
You Don't Have to Be Stuck with That Old Clunker
Now that you see how many options you have, you can finally stop stressing over what to do with your non-running car. There are ways to sell it for some spending money, or you can have a charity take it off your hands (and charities like Newgate School will even take care of the title transfer for you).