Import Duties on Shipping a Car to Costa Rica

By: Russ Martin - April 26th, 2011  Filed under: Costa Rica Car Buying Info Add Comment

The Galloper was never sold in the USA, but offers good value and economical operation.

If you have a vehicle that you have owned and that is commonly imported to Costa Rica, you may consider shipping the car to Costa Rica. This article explains the reasoning behind the high import duties, as well as some exceptions, including updated information on environmentally friendly taxes.  [Read More]

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Costa Rica Fuels: Gasoline, Diesel, LPG, and more

By: Russ Martin - March 9th, 2011  Filed under: Costa Rica Autos: Services, Accessories and Information, Costa Rica Car Buying Info Add Comment

Turbo Diesel Intercooler Engine - The best of both worlds?

If you are going to own a vehicle in Costa Rica, a big part of your life (and budget) is going to be spent filling her up.  Here is some information about fuel varieties, the national refinery and distribution system, and the choices you may make in buying a car. [Read More]

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Paying for a Vehicle if You Don’t Have a Costa Rican Bank Account

By: Russ Martin - February 24th, 2011  Filed under: Costa Rica Car Buying Info 2 Comments
Sexy, eh? Could be trouble though ...

Jeep Wrangler Close-up

Many of our clients for the car buying assistance service are in the process of relocating and have not yet established a bank account.  But they would prefer not to wait to buy their vehicle until they get an account.  There are a number of ways to arrange for payment of the auto, but the best one for you may depend on your budget (the amount to be transferred to Costa Rica), and also where (or who) you intend to buy the car from.  For example, currently a wire transfer to the dealer’s account is the best option in most cases.  But if you are buying from a private party or a dealer you’ve just met, then it wouldn’t be wise to wire the money into their account and expect to pick up the car a few days later.  They will probably be in Rio spending your money on wine and loose women!

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Importing a Car to Costa Rica vs. Buying a Vehicle Here

By: Russ Martin - February 18th, 2011  Filed under: Costa Rica Car Buying Info Add Comment

On some web sites people recommend importing a vehicle yourself rather than buying a vehicle that is already in Costa Rica.  A common concern cited is that cars coming in are flood damaged — Katrina Kars — or wrecked vehicles.  But, often the person giving this advice is a customs broker !  To be fair, we also earn money providing a service to people who buy cars here, so if you import a vehicle yourself, then we obviously can’t help you or earn our keep. This article attempts to objectively look at the issue and offer you advice depending on your situation. [Read More]

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Costa Rica Auto Insurance and Coverages

By: Russ Martin - February 15th, 2011  Filed under: Costa Rica Autos: Services, Accessories and Information, Costa Rica Car Buying Info Add Comment
The hill of death?

Accidents happen ...

If you have done some driving in Costa Rica, you may have felt an “urge” to get insured (lol) .  Most of our clients in the PASS service end up getting voluntary coverage, often mainly for the road side assistance which is valid nationwide.   The following information is basic information on the mandatory and voluntary insurance in Costa Rica.  What they cover and some information about costs.

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