Are you considering buying a car in Costa Rica? Whether you’re an expat moving to paradise or a local looking for a reliable vehicle, purchasing a car in Costa Rica comes with unique challenges. This guide covers everything you need to know—from deciding between importing vs. buying locally, choosing new vs. used, navigating legal requirements, and avoiding common pitfalls.
Contents
- 1 Should You Import or Buy a Car Locally in Costa Rica?
- 2 Choosing the Right Car in Costa Rica
- 3 Where to Buy a Car in Costa Rica – Dealers, Private Sellers & Hidden Gems
- 4 The Buying Process: Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing a Car in Costa Rica
- 5 Financing a Car in Costa Rica: Options for Expats & Foreign Buyers
- 6 Owning a Car in Costa Rica: Ongoing Costs, Repairs
- 7 Alternative Transportation in Costa Rica: Golf Carts, ATVs, Scooters & More
Should You Import or Buy a Car Locally in Costa Rica?
One of the first decisions you’ll face when buying a car in Costa Rica is whether to import a vehicle from abroad or purchase one locally . Each option has pros and cons, depending on your budget, vehicle preferences, and long-term plans.
Option 1: Importing a Car to Costa Rica
✔ Pros of Importing
- You Already Own the Car – If you’re moving from the U.S., Canada, or Europe and love your current vehicle, importing lets you keep it.
- Better Selection of Models – Some car models (especially luxury, electric, or specialty vehicles) are rare or overpriced in Costa Rica.
- Lower Mileage & Known History – If your car is well-maintained, you avoid the risks of buying a used car in Costa Rica with hidden issues.
✖ Cons of Importing
- High Import Taxes (35% – 80%) – Costa Rica charges import duties based on the government-assessed value (often higher than market value).
- Example: A car valued at $20,000 could cost an extra $7,000 – $16,000 in taxes.
- Complex Customs Process – Delays, paperwork, and bureaucratic hurdles are common.
- Your car may be held in customs for weeks.
- You’ll need a customs broker (agenciador) to handle the process.
- Higher Maintenance Costs – If your car is an uncommon brand, finding parts and mechanics may be difficult and expensive.
Is Importing Worth It?
✅ Yes, if:
- You own a rare, luxury, or electric vehicle not easily found in Costa Rica.
- You’re emigrating long-term and prefer to keep your current car.
- The total cost (car + taxes + shipping) is still cheaper than buying locally.
❌ No, if:
- You’re on a budget (import taxes make most cars more expensive).
- You want a common model (Toyota, Hyundai, Suzuki are widely available).
- You need a car quickly (importing takes weeks/months).
Option 2: Buying a Car Locally in Costa Rica
✔ Pros of Buying Locally
- No Import Taxes – You pay only the seller’s price + legal transfer fees (~3% of fiscal value).
- Faster Process – You can buy and register a car in days , not months.
- Easier Resale – Popular brands (Toyota, Suzuki) sell quickly if you decide to leave.
- Warranties Available – New cars come with dealer warranties (3+ years).
✖ Cons of Buying Locally
- Higher Upfront Cost – Cars in Costa Rica are 30-50% more expensive than in the U.S. due to taxes.
- Example: A used 2018 Toyota RAV4 might cost $25,000+ (vs. $18,000 in the U.S.).
- Limited Selection of Used Cars – High demand means fewer deals.
- Risk of Hidden Issues – Some used cars have odometer fraud or poor maintenance history.
Best Local Buying Options
- Dealerships (Agencias) – Best for new cars with warranties.
- Certified Pre-Owned Programs – Some dealers offer inspected used cars.
- Private Sellers ( Facebook , Crautos , Encuentra24 ) – Best for used cars (negotiate hard).
Final Verdict: Import or Buy Locally?
Scenario | Best Choice |
Moving permanently & love your current car | ✅ Import (if taxes aren’t prohibitive) |
Want a new car with warranty | ✅ Buy locally (dealership) |
Budget-conscious & need a used car | ✅ Buy locally (private sale) |
Looking for a rare/luxury model | ⚠️ Compare import vs. local prices first |
Key Takeaway
For most expats and buyers , purchasing a locally available car (Toyota, Hyundai, Suzuki) is the simplest and most cost-effective option. Importing is only worthwhile for specialty vehicles or if you’re strongly attached to your current car.
Choosing the Right Car in Costa Rica
Buying a car in Costa Rica is a big decision—especially since road conditions, availability of parts, and long-term maintenance costs vary widely. Whether you’re looking for a rugged 4×4 for mountain roads or a fuel-efficient sedan for city driving, here’s what you need to know before making your choice.
Best Car Brands for Costa Rica
1. Japanese & Korean Brands (Most Reliable)
These are the most popular and trusted brands due to their durability, widespread service networks, and easy-to-find spare parts:
- Toyota (Hilux, RAV4, Land Cruiser) – The gold standard for reliability, especially for off-road driving.
- Nissan (X-Trail, Frontier) – Strong resale value and good for coastal areas.
- Suzuki (Vitara, Jimny) – Compact, affordable, and great for tight roads.
- Mitsubishi (Montero, Outlander) – Known for handling rough terrain.
- Hyundai & Kia (Tucson, Sportage) – Increasingly popular with good warranties.
Why they’re recommended:
✔ Mechanics everywhere know how to fix them.
✔ Parts are readily available and affordable.
✔ High resale value if you decide to sell later.
2. Chinese Brands (Rising in Popularity)
In recent years, Chinese car manufacturers have entered the Costa Rican market with competitive prices, modern features, and improving service networks. Some of the most common brands include:
- Changan – Known for affordable SUVs like the CS35 and CS75.
- Geely (owned by Volvo) – Offers stylish, tech-loaded models like the Coolray.
- Great Wall Motors (GWM) – The Haval H6 is gaining traction as a budget-friendly SUV.
- Foton – Popular for pickup trucks and commercial vehicles.
- Maxus (SAIC Motor) – Known for electric and hybrid options.
Pros of Chinese Cars:
✔ Lower upfront cost compared to Japanese/Korean brands.
✔ Increasing number of dealerships and service centers.
✔ Some models come with long warranties (5+ years).
Cons to Consider:
✘ Resale value is still lower than Toyota/Nissan.
✘ Some mechanics may be less familiar with repairs.
✘ Parts availability can be an issue outside San Jos é .
Verdict: If you plan to keep the car long-term and prioritize affordability, Chinese brands are worth considering—especially if you live near an authorized service center.
3. American & European Brands (Less Common)
- Ford (Ranger, Everest) – Solid options, but parts can be pricier.
- Chevrolet (Tracker, S10) – Available but not as dominant as in the U.S.
- Volkswagen (Amarok, T-Cross) – Decent presence but higher maintenance costs.
- BMW/Mercedes – Luxury brands are expensive to maintain here.
Best for: Expats who prefer familiar brands and don’t mind higher upkeep costs.
New vs. Used Cars
Factor | New Car | Used Car |
Price | Higher upfront cost (~1.5–3x U.S. prices). | More affordable, but still expensive for late-model used cars. |
Reliability | Full warranty, no hidden issues. | Risk of wear/tear (must inspect carefully). |
Depreciation | Loses value quickly (like everywhere). | Slower depreciation in Costa Rica. |
Financing | Possible at dealerships (limited for foreigners). | Usually cash-only for private sales. |
Tip: If buying used, always check:
✅ Marchamo & Dekra (must be up to date).
✅ Odometer fraud (common—verify service records).
✅ Rust/damage (especially in coastal areas).
4×4 or Not?
Costa Rica’s roads range from smooth highways to rocky, unpaved trails. Here’s how to decide:
- You NEED a 4×4 if:
- You live in the mountains (Monteverde, Santa Teresa).
- Your home has a steep/dirt driveway.
- You frequently visit beaches or rural areas (river crossings, mud).
- A 2WD is fine if:
- You stick to cities (San José, Heredia, Escazú).
- You mainly drive on paved roads.
- You’re on a tight budget (4x4s cost more upfront and burn more fuel).
Best 4×4 Models: Toyota Land Cruiser, Suzuki Jimny, Mitsubishi Montero Sport.
Fuel Efficiency Matters
Gas prices in Costa Rica are high (around $5/gallon ), so consider:
- Hybrids/Electric Cars – Becoming more popular, but charging stations are still limited.
- Diesel vs. Gasoline – Diesel is cheaper per liter but may have higher maintenance costs.
Best for Fuel Savings: Toyota hybrids, Suzuki Swift, Hyundai Accent.
Final Tips for Choosing Your Car
- Test drive on rough roads (don’t just stick to city streets).
- Ask expat groups for mechanic recommendations.
- Avoid “too good to be true” deals (common with stolen/flooded cars).
Where to Buy a Car in Costa Rica – Dealers, Private Sellers & Hidden Gems
Buying a car in Costa Rica requires knowing where to look and how to avoid scams . Unlike in the U.S. or Canada, the market is smaller, prices are higher, and some sellers aren’t always transparent. Here’s a breakdown of the best (and safest) places to buy your next car.
Dealerships (Agencias)
Pros:
✔ Warranties (new cars usually come with 3–5 years of coverage).
✔ Financing options (some offer in-house loans, though harder for foreigners).
✔ Legal security (less risk of fraud vs. private sales).
✔ Trade-ins possible (if you already have a car to sell).
Cons:
✘ Higher prices (less room for negotiation on new cars).
✘ Limited inventory (especially outside San José).
✘ Pushy sales tactics (common at some dealerships).
Best Dealerships in Costa Rica:
- Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, Suzuki – Largest networks, best service centers.
- Chinese brands (Changan, Geely, Great Wall) – Increasingly competitive with good warranties.
- Luxury dealers (BMW, Mercedes, Volvo) – Only recommended if budget isn’t an issue.
Tip:
- Always ask if the price includes Marchamo, Riteve, and transfer fees (some dealers bundle them).
- Check for promotions (some offer free maintenance packages).
Private Sellers (Particulares)
Pros:
✔ Lower prices (room for negotiation).
✔ More variety (older models, unique imports).
✔ No dealership markup .
Cons:
✘ Higher risk (odometer fraud, hidden damage, no warranty).
✘ No financing (almost always cash-only).
✘ More paperwork (you must hire a notary).
Where to Find Private Sellers:
- Crautos.com – Costa Rica’s #1 used car site (like Craigslist but more reliable).
- Encuentra24.com – Classified ads with filters for price, model, and location.
- Facebook Marketplace / Expat Groups – Many expats sell before leaving the country.
- “Se Vende” Signs – Old-school but effective—check cars parked with for-sale signs.
Red Flags to Watch For:
🚩 No Dekra/Marchamo (could mean fines or unpaid taxes).
🚩 Seller refuses a mechanic inspection .
🚩 VIN doesn’t match paperwork (common with rebuilt wrecks).
Tip:
- Always meet in a public place (never alone at a seller’s home).
- Use a trusted mechanic (worth the $50–$100 inspection fee).
Car Rental Companies (Former Rentals)
Many rental agencies (like Adobe , Budget, National ) sell their fleets after 2–3 years.
Pros:
✔ Well-maintained (regular servicing records).
✔ Mid-range prices (cheaper than dealerships).
✔ No surprises (usually sold through reputable channels).
Cons:
✘ Higher mileage (rental cars are driven hard).
✘ Basic models (not many luxury options).
Best Rental Companies to Check:
- Priceless Costa Rica (known for selling used rentals).
- Solid Car Rental (often lists inventory on Crautos).
Tip:
- Ask for full service history (rental cars should have records).
- Test drive on rough roads (ensure no rattles or suspension issues).
Auctions & Repossessed Cars (Subastas)
Auction houses like Licitación INS or Banco BAC sell seized/repossessed cars.
Pros:
✔ Bargain prices (sometimes 30–50% below market).
Cons:
✘ Sold “as-is” (no test drives, no warranties).
✘ Competitive bidding (dealers often dominate).
Who Should Consider Auctions?
- Experienced buyers who can assess cars quickly.
- Those willing to risk minor repairs for big savings.
Tip:
- Attend one auction as an observer first to learn the process.
Online vs. In-Person: What’s Better?
Method | Best For | Risk Level |
Dealerships | New cars, financing, peace of mind. | Low |
Private Sellers | Bargains, older models. | Medium-High |
Rental Companies | Lightly used, well-maintained cars. | Low-Medium |
Auctions | Experienced buyers seeking deals. | High |
Final Tips for Choosing Where to Buy
- Dealerships = Safest (but most expensive).
- Private Sales = Cheapest (but riskiest—never skip the mechanic check!).
- Rental Companies = Middle Ground (good balance of price and reliability).
The Buying Process: Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing a Car in Costa Rica
Buying a car in Costa Rica involves legal checks, negotiations, and paperwork —but if done right, it’s a smooth process. Below is a detailed breakdown, including how to use Dekra inspections to ensure your potential car is roadworthy.
Step 1: Verify Legal Documents
Before anything else, check:
✅ Marchamo (Annual Registration & Insurance) – Must be up to date (paid between Nov 1–Dec 31 ).
✅ Dekra (Vehicle Safety & Emissions Inspection) – Required yearly (month depends on license plate number).
✅ Title (Libertad de Gravamen) – Ensures no liens (debts) on the car.
How to Check?
- Ask the seller for original documents (not photocopies).
- Verify online via Dekra system .
Red Flags:
🚩 Expired Marchamo/Dekra (means fines or illegal driving).
🚩 Seller refuses to show paperwork.
Step 2: Inspect the Vehicle
Option A: Hire a Trusted Mechanic (~$50–$100)
- Best for used cars from private sellers.
- Checks:
- Engine, transmission, suspension.
- Rust (common in coastal areas).
- Odometer fraud (ask for maintenance records).
Option B: Take It to a Dekra Inspection Station (~$17–$30)
- Why Dekra?
- Government-mandated inspection (required yearly).
- Tests safety (brakes, lights, tires) and emissions .
- Cheap & fast (takes ~30 minutes).
- Limitations:
- Does NOT check engine/transmission health.
- Focuses on road legality , not mechanical perfection.
Best for:
✔ Quick check before committing to a full mechanic inspection.
✔ Ensuring the car will pass its next mandatory Dekra test .
How to Schedule:
- Find a Dekra station near you here .
- No appointment needed—just drive in.
Step 3: Negotiate the Price
- Private Sellers: Expect to haggle (10–20% off asking price is common).
- Dealerships: Less flexible, but may offer freebies (mats, warranties).
Negotiation Tips:
- Point out issues found in Dekra/mechanic checks .
- Compare prices on Crautos.com to justify your offer.
- Walk away if the seller won’t budge (better deals exist).
Sample Spanish Phrases:
- “¿Cuál es su mejor precio?” → “What’s your best price?”
- “El Dekra mostró problemas con los frenos… ¿Puede bajar el precio?” → “Dekra found brake issues… Can you lower the price?”
Step 4: Legal Transfer (Traspaso)
Costa Rica requires a notary (notario público) to finalize the sale.
Process:
- Sign a sales contract (escritura de traspaso).
- Notary checks for debts/fines on the car.
- Pay transfer fees (~3% of the car’s fiscal value + $300–$500 lawyer fee).
- Wait 1–2 weeks for new title in your name.
Who Pays?
- Usually the buyer , but can be negotiated.
Tip:
- Use a bilingual notary if your Spanish is weak (ask expat groups for recommendations).
Step 5: Finalize Registration & Insurance
- Marchamo: Renew immediately if expired (seller should provide proof of payment).
- Plates: Stay with the car (no need for new ones).
- Insurance: Mandatory liability is included in Marchamo; consider full coverage.
Final Checklist Before Driving Off
🔹 Signed transfer papers (keep copies!).
🔹 Dekra/Marchamo up to date .
🔹 Mechanic’s approval (if used car).
🔹 Spare key, manual, tools (don’t forget these!).
Financing a Car in Costa Rica: Options for Expats & Foreign Buyers
Buying a car in Costa Rica is already expensive—and financing one as a foreigner can be even trickier. Unlike in North America or Europe, most car purchases are cash-based , and loans come with strict requirements. Here’s what you need to know before exploring financing.
Can Foreigners Get Car Loans in Costa Rica?
Short answer: Yes, but it’s difficult.
Local Bank Loans (Hard for Non-Residents)
- Requirements:
- Residency status (most banks require temporal or permanent residency ).
- Proof of income (Costa Rican salary or pension).
- High interest rates (~10–15%, vs. ~3–7% in the U.S.).
- Large down payment (often 30–50%).
- Best Banks for Auto Loans:
- BAC Credomatic (most expat-friendly).
- Banco Nacional (offers loans to pensionados).
- Scotiabank (sometimes works with foreigners).
Verdict:
✔ Possible if you have residency and local income.
✘ Not worth it for short-term expats (high rates, strict terms).
Dealership Financing (Easier, But Limited)
Some dealerships (especially for new cars ) offer in-house financing.
- Pros:
- Faster approval than banks.
- May work with foreigners (if you have a co-signer ).
- Cons:
- High interest (12–20% APR).
- Short loan terms (often 3–5 years max).
- Large down payment (sometimes 40–50%).
Best For:
- Expats with temporary residency who need a new car.
- Buyers who can pay off the loan early to avoid high interest.
International Financing (Rare but Possible)
- U.S./Canadian lenders (if you keep a credit history back home).
- Expat-friendly credit unions (e.g., Navy Federal if eligible).
Catch:
- Most won’t finance Costa Rican vehicles (only imports).
- Requires proof of income in your home country .
Alternative Options for Foreign Buyers
Since traditional loans are tough, most expats use:
1. Cash or Wire Transfers (Most Common)
- Pros:
- No debt, no interest.
- More negotiation power (sellers prefer cash).
- Cons:
- Requires upfront liquidity.
Tip:
- Use a secure transfer method (avoid carrying large amounts of cash).
2. Seller Financing (Pacto de Venta)
Some private sellers allow installment payments (but rare).
- How it works:
- You pay a down payment (30–50%) .
- Sign a contract ( pacto de venta ) for monthly payments.
- Car stays in seller’s name until fully paid.
Risk:
- No legal protection if the seller changes their mind.
- Must trust the seller completely .
3. Credit Cards (Small Down Payments)
Some dealerships accept credit cards for deposits (e.g., $1,000–$2,000).
- Pros:
- Earn points/miles.
- No immediate cash needed.
- Cons:
- High interest if not paid off quickly.
- Usually only covers a small portion of the purchase.
Key Considerations Before Financing
- Interest Rates Are High (Often 10–20%).
- Residency Helps (Temporal/Permanent makes approval easier).
- Used Cars = Harder to Finance (Most loans are for new cars).
- Dealerships Are More Flexible Than Banks .
Final Advice for Expats
- If you can pay cash, do it. (Avoid high interest and bureaucracy.)
- If financing, compare dealership offers first. (Easier than banks.)
- Never sign a pacto de venta without a lawyer. (Risk of scams.)
Owning a Car in Costa Rica: Ongoing Costs, Repairs
Once you’ve bought your car, the real adventure begins— maintaining it in Costa Rica’s rugged conditions . From pothole repairs to annual fees , here’s what to expect for long-term ownership costs , whether you need a 4×4 , and how much mechanics charge.
Ongoing Costs of Owning a Car
1. Mandatory Annual Fees
Fee | Cost (USD) | Due Date |
Marchamo (Registration + Basic Insurance) | $200–$1,500+ (based on car value) | Nov 1 – Dec 31 |
Dekra (Riteve) Inspection | ~$20 | Depends on license plate # (e.g., plate ending in 1 = January). |
Note: If you miss Marchamo, you’ll pay late fines + risk impoundment .
2. Fuel Costs (June 2025 Prices)
- Super (95 octane): ~$5.05/gallon
- Plus (91 octane): ~$4.89/gallon
- Diesel: ~$4.03/gallon
For up-to-date prices check government site Recope.
Tip: Gas stations are full-service only —just say “lleno, por favor” (fill it up). For a small tip the attendant will check your tires and clean your windshield.
3. Maintenance & Repairs (Cheap vs. Expensive)
Costa Rica has affordable labor but expensive imported parts .
Service | Cost (USD) |
Oil Change (Conventional) | $30–$50 |
Tire Puncture Repair | $5–$10 (vs. $20+ in the U.S.) |
Brake Pad Replacement | $80–$150 |
Full AC Repair | $200–$500 |
Toyota/Hyundai Mechanic (Hourly Rate) | $20–$40 |
European Luxury Car Mechanic | $50–$100+ |
Why So Cheap?
- Labor costs are low (but quality varies— ask expats for mechanic recommendations ).
- Chinese/Korean car parts are becoming more affordable.
Watch Out For:
- Coastal cars often have hidden rust (always inspect undercarriage).
- Flood-damaged cars (common in rainy season).
Insurance: Mandatory vs. Recommended
- Mandatory Liability Insurance (Included in Marchamo).
- Covers 3rd-party damage (not your own car).
- Full Coverage (Recommended) – ~$500–$1,500/year.
- Covers theft, accidents, natural disasters .
- Best for: New cars, luxury vehicles, or high-risk areas.
Tip:
- INS (National Insurance ) is the most common provider.
- Some insurers won’t cover flood damage (check fine print).
Hidden Costs to Budget For
- Toll Roads (Ruta 27, Caldera Highway) – ~$2–$5 per trip.
- Car Theft Accessories (Steering wheel locks, GPS trackers) – $50–$200.
- Parking Fees (In cities like San José) – ~$1–$3/hour.
Alternative Transportation in Costa Rica: Golf Carts, ATVs, Scooters & More
If you’re living in a beach town (like Playas del Coco, Tamarindo, or Nosara) or a gated community , you might not need a traditional car. Many expats and locals get around with golf carts, ATVs, scooters, or even bicycles —saving money on gas, insurance, and maintenance.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular alternative vehicles , their costs, and where they work best.
Golf Carts (Most Popular in Beach Towns)
Pros:
✔ Cheap to run (electric or gas models available).
✔ No car insurance required (but recommended).
✔ Easy parking (fits in tight spots).
✔ Great for short distances (beach, town, groceries).
Cons:
✘ Not legal on highways (only for local roads).
✘ Weak on steep hills (unless upgraded—see below).
✘ Limited safety (no doors, slow acceleration).
Types of Golf Carts in Costa Rica:
- Standard 4-Seater (~$5,000–$10,000 used) – Good for flat areas.
- Upgraded 6-Seater (with Hill Climbing Power) (~$12,000–$20,000 new) – Better for hilly towns (e.g., Santa Teresa).
- Street-Legal “Neighborhood Electric Vehicle” (NEV) – Rare, but some communities allow them.
Best For:
- Beachfront living (Tamarindo, Flamingo, Playas del Coco).
- Gated communities (where cars are unnecessary).
Tip:
- Rent one first to test if it meets your needs.
- Avoid cheap Chinese knockoffs (hard to repair).
ATVs & Side-by-Sides (For Off-Road Adventures)
Pros:
✔ Handles rough terrain (dirt roads, river crossings).
✔ Fun for exploring (beaches, jungles, mountain trails).
✔ Cheaper than a 4×4 car (~$4,000–$25,000 used).
Cons:
✘ Not safe for highways (illegal on major roads).
✘ No protection from rain/theft .
✘ High maintenance (tires, belts, suspensions wear fast).
Best Models in Costa Rica:
- Honda FourTrax (most reliable).
- Polaris RZR (for serious off-roading).
- Can-Am Maverick (luxury side-by-side).
Best For:
- Off-grid living (Montezuma, Dominical, rural areas).
- Weekend adventurers (not daily commuters).
Tip:
- Always wear a helmet (mandatory by law).
- Get theft insurance (ATVs are easy targets).
Scooters & Motorcycles (Cheapest Daily Riders)
Pros:
✔ Super fuel-efficient (~100+ MPG).
✔ Avoids traffic jams (lane-splitting is common).
✔ Super cheap ($800–$5,000 used) .
Cons:
✘ Dangerous in rain/potholes .
✘ Theft risk (always use a chain lock).
✘ Not ideal for families .
Best Models in Costa Rica:
- Honda Navi (~$1,500 new) – Best budget option.
- Yamaha XT250 – Good for light off-road.
- Suzuki Burgman (for city commuting).
Best For:
- Solo riders in cities (San José, Jacó, Quepos).
- Beach town errands (short trips only).
Tip:
- Get a full-face helmet (road debris is common).
- Avoid riding at night (poor visibility + drunk drivers).
Bicycles (For the Frugal & Eco-Conscious)
Pros:
✔ Almost zero costs (no gas, no insurance).
✔ Healthy & eco-friendly .
✔ Great for short distances (markets, cafes, beach).
Cons:
✘ Not safe on highways .
✘ Hills + heat = exhausting .
✘ Theft risk (even cheap bikes get stolen).
Best Bikes for Costa Rica:
- Mountain Bike (for potholes & dirt roads).
- Electric Bike (E-Bike) (~$1,500–$3,000) – Best for hills.
Best For:
- Beach towns with bike lanes (Puerto Viejo, Manuel Antonio).
- Gated communities (safe from traffic).
Tip:
- Buy a heavy-duty lock (or bring your bike inside at night).
- Avoid riding in rainy season (roads get muddy & slippery).
Comparing Costs: Golf Cart vs. Scooter vs. Car
Vehicle | Purchase Price | Monthly Cost | Best For |
Golf Cart | $5K–$20K | ~$50 (electricity) | Beach towns, short trips |
ATV/Side-by-Side | $4K–$25K | ~$100 (gas + repairs) | Off-road adventures |
Scooter | $800–$5K | ~$30 (gas + insurance) | City commuting |
Bicycle | $200–$3K | ~$5 (maintenance) | Eco-friendly locals |
Car (4×4) | $10K–$50K+ | ~$300+ (gas, insurance, Marchamo) | Families, long-distance |
Final Tips for Choosing Alternative Transport
- Rent before buying (test different options for a week).
- Check local laws (some towns restrict ATVs/golf carts).
- Prioritize safety (Costa Rican roads can be chaotic).
Ready to Buy Your Dream Car in Costa Rica?
Buying a car in Costa Rica doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right research, a trusted mechanic, and a good lawyer, you’ll be hitting the road in no time!
Need help with real estate too? 🏡
At BrokerCostaRica.com , Tony & Anna Velez specialize in helping expats find their perfect home in Costa Rica. Contact us today for expert advice!
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