How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute donation form or a call
Begin by filling out the short MotorCity Wheels online donation form or calling Heritage for the Blind directly. You will share basic information such as your name, contact details, vehicle year, make, model, approximate condition and where the vehicle is located in the Detroit area. You do not need to know every mechanical detail. If the car does not run, has body damage or has been sitting in a driveway or garage, that is okay. The goal of this first step is simply to confirm the vehicle and get your free pickup request started.
A coordinator calls back within 1-2 business hours
After your form is submitted, a donation coordinator typically calls back within 1-2 business hours during normal business times. This call is your chance to ask questions before committing, confirm the pickup address and review any title or access details. Donors in Detroit neighborhoods and Metro Detroit suburbs can usually choose a convenient pickup window at a home, apartment, workplace, repair shop or storage location. The coordinator will also explain what to have ready so the tow appointment is quick and stress-free.
Your vehicle is picked up for free in Metro Detroit
A licensed tow truck is scheduled to come to your location, with same-day or next-business-day pickup available in most metro areas. There is no towing fee, hidden pickup charge or processing cost to the donor. When the driver arrives, you will remove your personal belongings, provide the keys if available and sign the title over at pickup. The driver can usually take cars, trucks, vans, SUVs and other vehicles whether they run or not, as long as the vehicle can be safely accessed.
The vehicle goes to auction or a parts reseller
Once towed, the vehicle is transported to an auction or, when appropriate, a parts reseller. This is where the donation is turned into proceeds for the charity. You do not have to negotiate with buyers, advertise the vehicle, meet strangers or pay for repairs before donating. MotorCity Wheels and Heritage for the Blind handle the logistics after pickup. The final sale route depends on the vehicle condition, market demand and what is most practical for converting the donation into charitable value.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
After the vehicle sells, the proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 58-2164446. Heritage for the Blind helps fund services and resources for people who are blind or visually impaired. Donating through MotorCity Wheels means your unwanted vehicle can move from a Detroit driveway, curb, garage or parking lot into support for a recognized charitable mission. You get a simple disposal solution, and the charity receives funding from the vehicle sale.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the sale
Your tax documentation is mailed after the vehicle sells. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, Heritage for the Blind provides IRS Form 1098-C. For vehicles that sell for $500 or under, you receive a written acknowledgment. The full process, from starting your donation to receiving tax paperwork, typically takes about 2-6 weeks, depending on pickup timing, auction processing and mail delivery. Keep your receipt with your tax records, and speak with a tax professional about your specific deduction.
Key facts about car donation
Pickup is free for donors in Detroit and throughout much of Metro Detroit.
Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 58-2164446.
Most donors only need vehicle details, pickup access and a properly signed title.
Same-day or next-business-day towing is available in most metro areas when schedules allow.
Tax paperwork is mailed after the vehicle sells, usually within the 2-6 week process.
There is no cost to donate, tow or process your vehicle donation.