Used Cars in Costa Rica, Inspected and Backed by a 30-Day Exchange
Trinity Motors is a used car dealer in Uvita, Puntarenas, selling inspected used cars to buyers across Costa Rica, most of them English-speaking expats. At the time of writing, used listings ranged roughly from ₡5.6 million to ₡25 million, mostly 4x4 SUVs and trucks from Toyota and Suzuki, and every vehicle is covered by a 30-day exchange promise. You can browse the used vehicles for sale or check the live inventory, which is updated every week.
Who this is for
This page is for you if you live in Costa Rica, are moving here, or split your year between here and home, and you want a reliable used car without the usual guesswork. Most Trinity customers are English speakers. The whole process runs in English, by WhatsApp, email, chat or video, so you never have to negotiate in a language you are still learning.
It also fits buyers who have been burned before, or have heard the stories. Costa Rica is a buyer-beware market for private used car sales. A dealer that inspects, documents and stands behind what it sells removes most of that risk.
What you get when you buy a used car from Trinity
A background check on every vehicle, including a maintenance records review and a computer-aided odometer validation scan.
Pre-sale maintenance before the car is handed over.
The 100% Purchase Protection Pledge. If you are not satisfied, bring the vehicle back and get full credit of the purchase price toward another vehicle, within 30 days.
Optional extended warranty coverage.
Trade-ins accepted against your next vehicle.
Financing available, including for non-residents. Terms are given on request.
Nationwide delivery anywhere in Costa Rica, plus an airport shuttle for customers.
How buying a used car works
Browse the live inventory, or message Trinity with your budget and what you need the car for.
Ask questions, request more photos or a video walk-around, and book a test drive in Uvita if you are nearby.
Agree on the vehicle, your trade-in if you have one, and financing if you need it.
Sign the transfer paperwork. Ownership is transferred before a notary and registered in the Registro Nacional.
Pick up the car in Uvita or have it delivered anywhere in the country.
What is on the lot
The stock leans toward vehicles that suit Costa Rican roads and have parts and mechanics available locally. Trinity focuses on the brands that are most popular for life here for exactly that reason. Typical listings include:
Toyota: Hilux, RAV4, Fortuner, Land Cruiser Prado and 4Runner.
Suzuki: Jimny, Vitara and Grand Vitara.
Hyundai: Santa Fe and Staria.
Nissan: Frontier.
Other makes, including Isuzu and Mitsubishi, when they come in.
Model years on recent listings ran from older, budget-friendly SUVs to brand-new units. New listings are added every week and good cars sell fast, so the live inventory is the only reliable picture of what is available today. If you do not see what you want, Trinity can source it, including new vehicles that are not listed.
Buying from Pérez Zeledón, Dominical, Ojochal or Quepos
Many buyers come to Uvita from San Isidro de El General in Pérez Zeledón, from Dominical and Ojochal just along the coast, and from Quepos further north. They make the trip for three reasons. First, the whole sale happens in English. Second, every car has been through the same inspection and odometer check, with a 30-day exchange promise behind it. Third, the selection is focused on 4x4s that handle the Southern Zone's hills and gravel roads.
You do not have to make the drive at all. Trinity delivers anywhere in Costa Rica, so you can agree on a car over WhatsApp or video and have it brought to you.
“The exact 4-door, automatic, beige Jimny was delivered from San Isidro to Ojochal within a week!” — Sarah, Google review
What customers say
Trinity Motors holds a 4.9 average across more than 100 Google reviews. Founder Allison DeMarsh and her team are named again and again.
“Purchasing a vehicle in Costa Rica can be an adventure and is very much buyer beware. But with [Trinity] we felt comfortable and confident in our purchase.” — Troy M., Google review
“They found us a car in our budget and didn't try to push something more.” — Susan C., Google review
Frequently asked questions
How much do used cars cost in Costa Rica?
More than most buyers from the US or Canada expect, mainly because of import taxes. At the time of writing, used listings at Trinity Motors ranged roughly from ₡5.6 million to ₡25 million, depending on model, year and condition. Stock changes every week, so check the live inventory for current prices.
Can a foreigner buy a used car in Costa Rica?
Yes. You can buy and register a vehicle in Costa Rica with your passport. You do not need residency to own a car.
Do your used cars come with a warranty?
Extended warranty coverage is offered as an option. Every vehicle is also covered by the 100% Purchase Protection Pledge with a 30-day exchange promise.
What if I buy a car and it turns out to be the wrong fit?
Under the Purchase Protection Pledge, if you are not satisfied you can bring the vehicle back and get full credit of the purchase price toward another vehicle, within the 30-day exchange window.
Do you take trade-ins?
Yes. Trade-ins are accepted. Send photos and details of your current vehicle on WhatsApp to start.
Can you deliver a car outside Uvita?
Yes. Trinity Motors delivers anywhere in Costa Rica, including to the airport when you land.
Related
Seen a car you like, or want help choosing? Message Trinity on WhatsApp.