Living in Puerto Rico | Car Buying | Avoid these Mistakes
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- Опубліковано 16 лип 2024
- Buying a car in Puerto Rico; what you need to know before you buy a new or used car. Avoid my mistakes! Vehicle buying tips and more for residents of Puerto Rico.
Are you thinking about moving to Puerto Rico? You will definitely need a car for most areas around the island. Here are a few tips and mistakes to avoid before you buy any vehicle in Puerto Rico.
For more information on Living in Puerto Rico, Travel in Puerto Rico, and more fun adventures check out my website at jentheredonethat.com
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A couple quick corrections; the dealership is owned by an autogroup with a relationship with BMW. A water bill or electric bill can be used to prove physical residence.
JenThereDoneThat or phone bill!
JenThereDoneThat I’m a gringo been living here 20 years if you need insight just get in touch 7872355812
Typical from DTOP and CESCO from PR. I’m a Puerto Rican myself and that happened to me with one of my cars. You are not alone on this. And about the potholes, yep, thats a lifestyle in PR. I acually have a Mirage ‘17 and I’m always dancing in the streets to avoid most of the potholes (you can’t avoid all of them, it’s impossible), so having a SUV or a Jeep (like in your case) is a Must-Have here. So congrats on fixing that issue.
BTW: Love your channel, and thanks for supporting Puerto Rico! 😄
I guess the potholes are part of our sunshine tax to live in paradise. But, at least we never have to shovel snow!!
been there done that myself , I personally enjoyed a few years in the snow,I can't do it now cause of my age and joint pains here in the island ,as for the car life here , I never would want to express too many negative things thru the net , but only a good new car and used real good car no older than 5 years from there present year...I've had 4 used old clunky car since ive made my suicidal transition to the island , it's a psychotic beahvior to her involved with family and people to be hand me down car and waste more than 15 dollars in parts in perriod of 10 years...and they expect money on a car that is more than 15 years ...wish you well here ...Every Paradise has it's hell... just that some places in hell are actually a little more organized...lololo
Mi isla! 😃
You are seriously saving me on all these videos! You are covering all the essentials for my move to PR. Thanks so much 🙌🏼
Happy to help! Thanks for watching.
If you're coming here, be sure to pay your taxes, unlike the author of the Video
Don’t stop doing what your doing been on the island 7 yrs and I always watch you first thanks Jen ** I Chuckle every time I watch you
Muchas Gracias!! I really appreciate that. Have a great day!
Everything is a mess. I'm used to do everything easy here in USA, but Puerto Rico everything is complicated. ... Believe me be prepare to do everything difficult is u want to go back. But in overall life in the Island is more fun and happy that in USA. I speak because I spend 21 years in USA and I know what I'm talking about..
Bittersweet to buy a car in P.R. I like that the sticker price is the price. Your water bill is your most important document from what I see. But buying a car from someone with tickets on it it's a no-brainer this information was very helpful thank you very much!
Good info. Thanks for posting this video
Still, that registration fee is illegal, and the dealer has to include that on the price of the vehicle. There was a lawsuit brought up against a bunch of car dealerships on the island that went all the way to the supreme court of Puerto Rico and the defendants won.
i was wondering about that, thx! have fun...
Woman... you are something else. I am from Puerto Rico and the only reason I will be leaving in Puerto Rico if that’s the only place in the planet without zombies. Puerto Rico is a very difficult place to leave and the system is corrupted and evil. I wish you the best of luck and God protection for you and your family. Keep strong! You are amazing. 👍🏼
Isn't great that we can choose where we want to live and aren't stuck where we are born?
Enjoy for new home.
I see and know many people that live so happy and are doing very good in Puerto Rico. Everything depends on each individual. I also know people living in the US that are unhappy and struggling living pay check to pay check🇵🇷
@@marilynperez4499 I guess you are right. I came last week from visiting my mother in San Juan. The lack of respect from neighbors playing loud music, the conditions of the roads, the safety of driving and the crime are enough reasons for me to avoid living there. Perhaps, living in the “campo” away of the city is a better way to enjoy the island. Don’t get me wrong the island is a paradise but is the system of living there that vanished my love for Puerto Rico. 😔
This is very good info I was wondering about shipping or buying there a 4 x 4 awsome
I just moved here a week ago - this is really helpful
OMG Thank You. I am looking for a car here in the island and I am very skeptical, I left the island at a young age, so I am back learning to be Puertorican again your input is deeply appreciated.
Thank you for sharing your nightmares and daily minutia of getting a vehicle in P.R. I’m seriously considering staying in Arizona. I have a house in Yuma, Arizona and a Ranch in Snowflake, Arizona. I almost put my homes for sale to move to Puerto Rico.
You were not really thinking about moving if just a piece of information of what happened to her stop you! Reality!
Cash is name of game.. Sorry u had go thru that.. Now u got over it n sharing the experiences.. Gracias/ thanks young lady.. Peace
Thanks for the infomation im moving there shortly and beed a car.
FANTASTIC TIPS !!!@
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Jen, you're so adorable. I am Pto.Rican living in the states now for over 30 yrs, thanks for the heads up with the Ticket issue, as I am planning to move back to the Island in the near future, God Bless.
Thank you!
Great info! It is more expensive in PR because of shipping costs to an island
Any goods or products shipped to PR are more expensive (usually 20% or so) than buying the exact same item in the mainland US. Locally made or locally sourced items tend to be less expensive here, so the lesson is to shop local as much as you can!
The thing about the marbete or “stickers” registration in the US, is that you are forced to buy Compulsory Liability Insurance from a list of insurance companies.
Every driver in Puerto Rico is required to have a minimum of $3,000 in liability insurance coverage. Your liability coverage will automatically cover your own damages and medical expenses regardless of who is at-fault for the collision.
Because of this every car in PR has liability insurance. It does not pay much but is something. The cost is around $100. Of course, you can buy extra insurance up to a full cover. In the US you can lie about having car insurance and get your stickers with no questions ask but a signature in a form.
You do not go and just buy a sticker at the government agency. You have to take your car to an authorized inspection center where they check in addition to emissions, the working order of your car head lights, turn lights, brakes, alignment, horn, tires, windshield, bumpers, etc., a full check of the working order of your vehicle. At least once you pass, you pick your insurance from a list, pay and they issue your marbete right there.
Also, in PR they have what the locals call “campaign” where cops on certain roads stop and check every car for expired stickers, and sometimes they check the working order of your car horn, head lights, turn signals, or whatever can be in no working order.
Thanks for sharing the additional Marbete information!
Welcome to Puerto Rico !
Gracias!!
I live in MI, originally from PR, and I can tell you that you don't need a 4x4 in either place. You just need a FWD with good tires unless you are a terrible driver in either MI or PR :).
I love my crazy island!
Me, too!
SUV or truck is the only way to drive in PR for sure!!
Primary vehicle must be truck or SUV here!
nope truck and SUV only ...with good tires ...!! The bigger the better and posibly a stronger suspension too!!
Our PR house with a steep drive often trucks can not make it up due to back end being too light . 4 wheel drive a must. You're right low cars will bottom out on dips and mountain or hill roads. Also weak minivans were useless climbers.
appreciate this
I hope it helps!
Hey Jen! I love that everytime I think of a question you have an amazing answer for it. Your videos are great! So my SO and I are coming to visit and instead of renting a car is it possible to buy a car there with an address in the States? We would store it with family till the next time we visit.
I am glad the information is useful.
You can buy a car with US license, but I think you need to use family address for the car registration & insurance.
You’re right. It’s important to keep receipts. Not to pay again .
They have bad habits of losing proof of payment.
If you want Pre-approval you may want to contact PenFed Credit Union or Navy Federal Credit Union. Both have branches in PR. They both pre-approve you and you then go shopping for the car.
Thanks for the info. I'm thinking of moving there. Is it more expensive to ship your vehicle? I have a vehicle that I dont want to sell. Your videos are really helpful. Thank you.
The tax on newer vehicles is usually what makes people just buy on the island. If you have an older, reliable car then it may be worth shipping and paying the import tax. The shipping company can help you estimate the import tax and shipping cost to make the best decision for you.
Hmm, all my family live in the mountains of Caguas, PR. None of them have 4x4. They drive civics, Kia Sole, Mitsubishi’s.
Thanks for the video! Did you end up getting the car financed through the dealership? Have you known of that being more common than through a bank?
Great video! Definitely getting an SUV. Do you know if license plates transfer to the new owner here if you are buying private party?
Nice vídeo salu2 from Ohio love pr 😍thanks
Gracias!
❤hello Janethere! Thank you for sharing such important information- question, renting one bedroom condo, verses buying?
Is there availability here in Cabo Rojo
Thanks again Jen for the great info! I wanted to add that my wife and I are leaving the island (after 3 years). We are selling our Mazda 3 in perfect condition. If anyone is interested, comment down below or send me message. We would be happy to guide through the entire process . Best luck!
If someone could chime in on the haggling process if there is a need for one that would be good also
It is about the same negotiation as anywhere for a car. Check the Kelly Blue Book value before beginning any negotiations.
Hello Jen and thanks for the advice! I'm wondering where you rented a car for 6 months (or was it 3?) and the price of it. I've just moved here and am navigating life without a car, which is next to impossible, even living in San Juan. If you have any insider tips for renting a car long-term without paying for a new car three time over, I'd love to get your advice! Thanks, Hilary
Unfortunately, we did not find any affordable options for renting long-term. We rented a car a little over 3 months, and it was crazy expensive.
Lol thank you
I hope it helps you avoid my mistakes!
Good video. We have two cars. A highlander is perfect for PR.
Yes, it is!!
Just watched your video today, 4 years after your made it. I was wondering if sipping over and electric vehicle or truck is still free of the excise tax, I haven't been able to find any mention of it in the last 2 years in the media or government websites?
Very useful info. Thanks for sharing. I rent an apartment and don't have water bill in my name. Does it mean that I cannot own a cart in PR?
You would have to bring your lease agreement or some officially recognized document that proves your physical address. Phone bill, electric bill and lease agreement usually work.
Hi Jen, did DTOP make you change your license from a US one to a PR one when registering your car? Thanks and great vid!
I already had my PR driver's license, but I know many snowbirds that have registered cars here with non-PR driver's licence.
Here is how to get your PR license, if you want to. jentheredonethat.com/drivers-license-puerto-rico/
@@JenThereDoneThat I am from Puerto Rico but I moved 21 years ago to WA. When I came to WA in 2001, I used my driver's license to come to the US. Last month I was talking with my girlfriend in Puerto Rico. She told me that we (Puerto ricans) can't use the driver's license anymore to go to the US that we (Puerto ricans) need to use the US passport. If I go back to Puerto Rico and can use my US driver's license and don't need my US passport. Then I think if you Jen don't have a US driver's license anymore you will need to get your US passport to go to the US. Please let me know if the information that my girlfriend gave me is wrong.
I think the reason Puerto Rico and not accepting driver licenses anymore to go to the US is because a lot of illegal from near islands and from Central and South America were going to Puerto Rico and had a Puerto Rico driver's license to go to the US like they were Puerto Rican when they weren't.
By the way, today I subscribed to your channel and I sent videos some of your videos to my friends and neighbors.
Thank you for all your honest videos👍
The "e" at the end of a word in Spanish is also pronounced.
Thanks, I was looking for that comment. I'm sure after a few years she will get it! I have no choice, being married to a Puerto Rican 😂
Hi Jen, I saw your video boy do I need help… I move to Rincon 2021 purchase a brand new Jeep renegade from Triangle Dealer in Mayaguez they are the worst and it was awful a month later it broke down and every time after. I gave it back to the bank they sold it. Well now I’m searching can you tell me what you purchase so I can have an idea? Thanks Nance Happy Holidays 🎅 🎄
Good evening Jen, I just had a question about shipping my vehicle from Tennessee here. It’s a 2008 Jeep patriot and my question is how much tax would they charge me? I hear they use the black book instead of the Kelley blue book to appraise the vehicle! Thank you so much. Sincerely, Howard Lewis.
Hi! I've watched a lot of your videos and thank you for the helpful information :) I was wondering, Do you have a hard time getting around (Going to DMV, getting cars, health insurance, ect) without Spanish? I am Puerto Rican myself and planning on moving to the island soon, but I am not very fluent in Spanish, or at least professional talk. I was wondering how you do. Thanks!! :)
I speak bad Spanglish and that is sufficient. If I am struggling with a word or phrase, Google Translate helps me out. Many people speak English and are usually really nice about my bad Spanish.
This will depend on which part of the island you are moving to. San Juan generally you can get by with little Spanish. The rest of the Island or outside of a larger city, it can be a little more difficult.
Wow😳
DTOP is a mess we hate it
Thank you for the info.My car is low to the ground so I would have to sell it.Are jeeps more expensive over there?
Overall, cars and any imported items are more expensive in PR than US due to the Jones Act. Expect to pay at least 20% more for a vehicle in PR.
Hi Jen, Thank you for theis video, so is it better/easier to ship a new/use car, truck, etc from the main land or just go to the dealership in the island??
It is easier to buy here, unless you are looking for something very unique. Shipping cost, delays, and taxes can be a real hassle. jentheredonethat.com/moving-and-shipping-items-to-puerto-rico/
Thank you Jen greatly appreciate it!!
Hello Jen, I’m living in Rincon, PR and shopping for a 2022 and the sticker on the car has 30,770.00 and their claiming nothing is added so with taxes and fee’s is $37,995.00 and 2,000 down it comes to $35,995.00 🤷♀️ 2022 Bronco Sport???
To be on the same page you mention you went to Caguas and to Autogroup is that correct? Please correct the info for sticker price thank you 🙏 🌹
Been there highway not bad
One more thing about SUV's in PR. a lot of them are not 4WD or AWD you need to make sure.
True! I use my 4WD frequently!
Does your FICO score have the same impact when buying a car in pr versus mainland does
I cannot speak for buying a car. But I recently bought a house in PR, currently live on the mainland. They did a credit check and used the same criteria and sources as used on the mainland.
How would you compare the total cost of purchasing the same used car in PR vs USA (after all taxes and fees)?
Most vehicles are at least 30% higher priced in PR, and that varies on make/model. The Jeep that I just purchased was almost double in PR than what I would have paid in mainland US, according to KBB.
The cost of buying or shipping a vehicle to PR is definitely much higher than mainland US.
JenThereDoneThat it's true , majorly , and times cheaper to buy a good used car in the US..and ship it from Jacksonville Florida...
Will a rental lease count for proof of residence or will they only accept a water or electric bill when buying a car?
Not all places will accept the rental lease, that may take extra discussion. The utility bill is most commonly accepted.
You will need a utility bill, (can be home phone bill also) lease or rental contract are accepted too, with a copy of the bill under the real owner’s name , if that is the case. Sometimes house internet bill can count as an evidence of residence. It all depends what the bank accepts. You can contact me for more info, I worked in the auto industry and now I am an insurance agent. acosegurosyfianzas@gmail.com
Are you doing real estate in PR?
how expensive is car insurance?
how much was it?
Thank you for the information can you paid with debit or credit cards?
The locations that I have used only took cash or ATH Movil payments.
What is needed to obtain your PR drivers license if you’re a US citizen ? US ID?
Complete info to get your PR driver's license. jentheredonethat.com/drivers-license-puerto-rico/
The marvete is the registration is it every year?
Yes, the marbete is the annual car registration and basic insurance coverage. You must have the updated sticker on your windshield and the paper copy in your vehicle at all times.
why did you not ship a 4 x4 over ? Is it too expensive?
MY SUV in the States was 2 WD SUV, and not a model that I could easily get service & parts for in PR. Plus it would be very expensive to ship & pay taxes on . For me it was a much better deal to buy a used Jeep here on the island.
What do you think about buying motorcycle
Don't do it. Your life span will be shortened greatly! I am a motorcyclist.
May we ask what model of Jeep did you buy?
Jeep Wrangler 4x4 - fantastic island vehicle!
What about leasing a car there? Have you considered?
There are currently ZERO car leasing options on the island. If you learn of a car lease please let me know, many people would be interested in the option.
If they just "lose" the receipt, but otherwise there's not a penalty for non-payment -- why not wait to pay until it's time to get the marbete sticker?
Many people do that. I didn't know about a few parking tickets (nothing was left on my vehicle to indicate a ticket), so I paid those when renewing my Marbete.
Double paying for tickets is almost a third world custom, Italy, France, Costa Rica, etc. They all do it as a matter of practice.
That is why it is so important to keep proof of payment.
Is accident and liability insurance mandatory in Puerto Rico? And, if it is not, how many Puerto Rico drivers have it?
Basic insurance is included in the annual Marbete, you have to have it. For newer vehicles, many of us have additional insurance (which is very cheap compared to many States).
Is not call a marbet, is call a marbete. You have to pronounce the e at the end, te...like te-lephone or te-levision, etc.
Yeah. It is interesting the amount of things Jen has to learn about the Spanish and our Puertorican language but regardless of that what she said about to save the receipts of the traffic violation tickets paid off is really true and that situation has been like that for several decades without has experimented any change in that particular issue. That really interesting and surprise me at the same time.
@@hamed440 never said it wasn't.
¿ será francesa la guacha ? usualmente los franceses hacen eso de omitir la ultima letra de una palabra. pq seríá increible que despues de tanto tiempo en P.R no sepas que marbete tiene una fucking e al final.
That’s why I have SUV 4x4, and the potholes hold them 🚙.👍👍
4X4 is the way to go in PR! I love mine, too.
How come the dealership didn't pay for those tickets while owning the car???
The dealership usually does, the biggest risk is buying from an individual. Double check tickets on the CESCO app before buying or selling any vehicle.
Why did you not ship your car to PR?
#1 Cost, and #2 Terrible vehicle for the Island
Hi Jen, I am moving to PR next week. I will be buying a house and a car when i get there. Can i buy a PR car without a PR address?
You usually need something with an PR address to purchase a car. They usually ask for a water, electric, or phone bill. If you buy the house, then move there is no problem for the car.
@@JenThereDoneThat thank you for the reply, i was hoping to get the car first while i drive around in search of a property.
“There’s no record of your payment of the traffic tickets” typical DTOP trying to grab more money out of people. But yeah cars are more expensive here than in the US and used cars even more so. Depending on what car you want it may be cheaper to just ship it from the USA (though that’s another odyssey on itself).
Yes, check vehicle prices in PR compared to same vehicle and shipping costs to determine if it is better to buy in PR or ship a vehicle. jentheredonethat.com/moving-and-shipping-items-to-puerto-rico/
It's called a marbetie Jan .. Bill part time res of PR since 1972
Also I never owned any 4 wd drive vehicle in almost 50 years of both visiting (several times a year) and living here 10+ years. I go everywhere on the island also but slow and carefully and not lowered rides.. Good job in general though.. Bill
who said you can't get a car loan here? my goodness too much wrong information
You can't get pre-approved for a car loan without having the exact car and dealership. The car loan is a very different process in PR than in the US. It is important to understand the differences and the process in PR. Most Puerto Ricans know the process, but I didn't.
@@JenThereDoneThat next time check first on www.clasificadosonline.com or Facebook Market
@@KamiKaZeJeremy Yes! I sold my car via Classificados.
JenThereDoneThat I don't know the process here
Get a loan and pay double for the price of the car
I live In Sylmar California 91342,I want to see if Papi Chulo can hooked up with Working in Bank in America like A Security Guard 👍
Move to Europe!!!
Congratulations for moving to paradise. I ran out of the island and won’t come back. Those hassles will get pretty old soon. PR is good for visiting… not living.
Thanks, after 7 years I know exactly what you mean by the hassles (anything to do with the government is especially bad). But, the good outweighs the hassles, and I am getting better at dealing with them.
Sorry Babe you got played I always have copies on my phone of every ticket I've ever paid and I've never had an issue they have to accept it so don't let them try to play you You saw you were American and decided that they probably could get some more money off you
We boricuas dont ever have this problems.. its kinda crazy
Another reason for foreigners to pay their fair share of taxes in the island. Potholes do not get filled by themselves... Thank you!!
🌺
Most foreigners do.
Unless you’re from PR don’t come. What else must we lose and sacrifice to outsiders. Y’all want to come and enjoy for a while, sure. But outsiders come and quickly take.
in my case wish never would of moved here to be with psycho family and other community B.S. cause supposedly I look like an undercover agent...And other Weird stuff...!! wish you well ...
so ya te fuiste de la isla? estoy viendo que muchos boricuas viviendo en ee uu se van para Boriken. tambien tengo entendido que hay mucho gringo alla, sobre todo por Rincon 👎🏽 👎🏽
The cops will also tow your car on the spot of the Marbete is expired