How to Buy a Car in Costa Rica: Avoid Pitfalls and Common Mistakes

In this episode, Sarah and Jairo take you through the step-by-step process of buying a car in Costa Rica, sharing essential tips and advice to ensure a secure and hassle-free experience. From understanding the legal requirements to avoiding common scams, they break down everything you need to know to make a smart purchase.
Whether you're a new expat or just planning to buy a vehicle in Costa Rica, this episode covers key information to help you navigate the process safely and confidently. Sarah and Jairo share their own experiences and give expert advice on what to look out for to avoid costly mistakes.
🚗 Tune In: If you're thinking about buying a car in Costa Rica, this episode is a must-listen! Get ready to learn the ins and outs of the car-buying process here.
💬 Subscribe & Share: Make sure to subscribe and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from these crucial tips on buying a car in Costa Rica.
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For Moving to Costa Rica: Visit Sarah Elena's Relocation Website 🌎 lasarahelena.com
Car Rentals in Costa Rica: Contact Jairo at Jairo's Car Rental Website 🚗 / carrentalscostaricaandusa
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[@matthewmorris8070]

Let's go find that guy and have some fun with him!

[@eljefeog]

If it's used, get an independent mechanic to take a look. A friend of mine found a "great deal" on a vehicle in SJ. Mechanic took a look. Used an OBDII reader and found they had disabled the Check Engine light.

[@SarahElenaDesignsLife]

Yes, getting a mechanic is definitely the best advice to be sure that the car is a good purchase option!

[@imxploring]

Used cars in CR are very expensive... and the pitfalls in CR are massive. Imported cars from the US present their own issues on having been exposed to road salt, fraud (odometer rollbacks and unreported accidents), and the inability to get service or parts locally. Spend the extra money and buy a new car you can afford at a dealership. You might have to settle for less car... but you'll avoid so many issues! You get a warranty and parts and service will be available. Extra tip... Look at the car models that the auto rental agencies have been using for years... always a pretty good bet if the rental agencies are using them for years that they're a solid bet. As for the flood of Chinese and electric cars... give it 5 years... they'll be scrap.

[@Retler39]

The system needs to change and rentals need a price cap on them. Renting a truck for a month from your buddy there is over $5,000… that’s absolutely ludicrous and criminal. That’s a whole year or two of car payments in the US. He loves it but that’s taking advantage of customers. But typical Tico! You would think with that money he would at least have a gym membership and take care of himself. Again, typical Tico. Lazy!!!