Tallers - Auto Repair Shops

You will not find a mechanic here that has the same qualifications as the mechanics in the US and they won't have the same diagnostic equipment. What takes 2-3 hours to fix in the US may take a day or 2 and you probably will have to return to get it corrected. Spare parts are difficult to obtain so it is best to stay with the better known brands and models.

We have found that the Alajuela Super Servicio - a chain shop - is excellent for oil changes, alignments and general suspension work. Their prices in general are on the high side but their quality makes it worthwhile.

Price Smart has about the best prices around on batteries and tires.

You will need to rely on personal suggestions for other types of mechanics and body shops.  We know of some in the Grecia / Sarchi area and would be glad to help if we can.  Just write us with your questions.

Ticos are nothing short of being ingenious for car repairs.  They cal them “McGyvers” after the television show that still runs here.  That is not always a good thing as you are reliant on the capabilities of the mechanic that is doing the Mickey-Mouse repair.  There are no junk yards as we know them in the US.  They recycle EVERYTHING!  If a car is totaled from a rear end collision, they cut the back of the car off and sell the front and vica versa.

Buying a wreck and stripping a car down to the bare chassis and repainting it to make it look like new is a common occurrence. There is a shop just 2 km from my house that turns out about 10 “reconditioned” cars per month.  The sad part is the buyer really has no way of knowing.