Buying a Used Car in Curaçao: The Complete Guide

1. Where to find cars in Curaçao

Listings are fragmented, which is exactly why many buyers waste time. The main channels:

• Online aggregator platforms like CarDushi, where the inventory of every major dealer and private sellers sits in one place, so you can compare by brand, price, year and mileage in a single search.
• Facebook groups and Marketplace, where many private sellers are active. High volume, but you have to filter and vet the seller yourself.
• Car dealerships, which offer more structure and sometimes a warranty, at a higher price.
• Roadside "Te Koop" (For Sale) signs, still a normal way of selling on the island.

Start your search where you can actually compare, and you avoid bouncing between dozens of separate ads.

2. Evaluating the seller

Always ask for the seller's ID (sédula or passport) and check that the name matches the vehicle paperwork. Be cautious with a seller who cannot show a valid inspection card (keuringskaart), has no purchase or import documents, or pushes for a quick cash deal without paperwork. Warranty terms vary widely between dealers, so get every promise in writing.

3. Inspection and test drive

View the car in daylight and dry weather so you can clearly see paint, rust and leaks. Watch for uneven tyre wear, signs of accident repair and warning lights on the dashboard. Take a test drive long enough for the engine to reach operating temperature, and listen for unusual noises when accelerating, braking and steering.

4. Independent mechanical check

Have the car inspected before purchase by an independent mechanic of your choosing, not the seller's mechanic. Checking the engine, transmission, suspension and undercarriage costs little compared to what a hidden fault costs you later. On an island where parts have to be imported, an expensive repair adds up fast.

5. Negotiation

Prices are often negotiable, especially with private sellers. Come prepared: know what comparable cars cost, point to concrete faults you found during inspection, and be ready to walk away. A fair asking price plus a well-argued offer works better than a lowball with no reasoning.

6. Required documents

For a smooth purchase and transfer you need: the vehicle registration, a valid inspection card, valid ID for both buyer and seller, and for an imported car the import documents. Check that there is no outstanding road tax or fines on the car before you pay.

7. Safe payment

Only pay once the paperwork checks out and the transfer can be arranged. Cash is common in Curaçao, but agree on a safe place and a clear moment, and draw up a simple sales contract with both names, the car's details, the amount and the date. Keep a signed copy.

8. Transferring ownership

Ownership transfer of a motor vehicle is handled through the government service desk. Make sure buyer and seller arrange the transfer together, or with the proper authorization, so the car is registered in your name and the seller is no longer liable. Do this at the time of purchase, not later.

9. Insurance

Arrange insurance before you take to the road. In Curaçao at least third-party liability (WA) insurance is mandatory. Compare coverage and premiums; for an older car comprehensive cover is not always worth it, for a more expensive car it often is.

10. Inspection and road tax

A valid inspection is mandatory. Check the expiry date on the inspection card and expect to have the car inspected yourself if it lapses. Also arrange the road tax in your name. Keep these recurring costs in your budget, alongside the purchase price.

11. Handover and after the purchase

At handover you receive all keys, the complete paperwork and ideally the service booklet. Right after the purchase, get the insurance, transfer and road tax in order. Keep the sales contract and all receipts; they are valuable when you resell the car later.

A note on prices and currency

Prices in Curaçao are usually in Antillean guilders (XCG/NAf). On top of the purchase price, budget for additional costs: inspection, insurance, road tax and possibly transfer fees. Factor those in so you are not caught out.

Frequently asked questions