So my son has an older pickup that I was planning on selling and getting him a newer one for a graduation present in the spring. It overheated this week and the verdict is a leaking radiator, with recommendation to replace the hoses as well because it's a 12 yo truck and they are likely to go sooner than later. Also thermostat is dead from the overheating.
Also will probably need at least front brakes as well before the spring. It's a 12 yo GMC with 180K miles, so I am figuring a lot of wear and tear / age issues are going to be coming up in the near future. I have no interest in DIY stuff other than oil changes, and don't want to put any more money into this vehicle. Trying to sell a truck that you can't let anyone test drive seems like a PITA, so I'm thinking about donating it for a tax deduction.
Questions for those who may have done this, or in general sold a non running vehicle.
What is the best org to donate to? ideally I would like it to go to one that will fix it and give it to a family in need, not just sell it at auction for $
How much can you safely deduct? I read that it's supposed to be "fair market value," but also that you can deduct up to 5K without an independent appraisal.
The service writer has a buddy that wants to buy it (I think it's a pretty good truck for someone who can do the labor themselves--can get it running for not much in parts and fix other shit if/when it comes up), but wants me to suggest a price rather than making an offer for it
Any thoughts/suggestions?
TIA