Bill G. Says:
Do you have any tips for buying a car in Costa Rica?
IL Costa Rica Correspondent Bekah Bottone Says:
Hi Bill,
If you decide to buy a car, it’s a good idea to get the word out in the expat community that you’re interested in buying a vehicle.
Chances are good that fellow expats will contact you when they’re ready to sell. The price will nearly always be less than what dealerships charge, and the odometer is less likely to be rolled back—a practice of some dealers in Costa Rica.
Also keep in mind that many of the flooded cars from hurricanes in Texas and Florida have been sold off by insurance companies and “refurbished” to look nearly new.
If a vehicle is of U.S. or Canadian origin, it pays to verify the mileage and accident history at CarFax or AutoCheck.
You can also look up a car’s history in Costa Rica on the national registry website.
If you’re driving in rural areas often, or want a car that will withstand the potholes much better, then consider a four-wheel-drive SUV or pickup. In this case, a diesel engine will be advisable. Diesel fuel here runs about two-thirds of the cost of gasoline.
Another standard rule of thumb if you decide to buy a car in Costa Rica is to spend some time observing, and opt for a make and model that is common. This is one place where springing for a one-of-a-kind vehicle won’t give you anything but a headache.
Buying something that’s commonly driven in the area where you live increases both your chances of finding a mechanic who can make repairs and finding replacement parts. The most common makers are Toyota, Mitsubishi, Hyundai, and Nissan. Parts are readily available and most mechanics will know who can work on them.
Learn more about driving in Costa Rica in our comprehensive guidebook Escape to Costa Rica.
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