How to Buy a Car in Almería, Spain 2023

SPAIN is a popular destination for those seeking sunshine, culture, and a relaxed way of life. If you’re planning to make Spain your home, you may find it beneficial to have your own vehicle to explore this beautiful country and adapt to the Spanish lifestyle. This guide will walk you through the process of buying a car in Almería, helping you navigate the legal and practical aspects of car ownership. Buying a car in Spain can be a daunting task, especially if  Spanish is not your first language. The process can be complex and time-consuming, and there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to do it right.

Who is eligible to buy a car in Almería, Spain?

Foreign citizens from the EU and other countries can own a car in Spain. You don’t necessarily need to be a resident of Spain to buy a car, but you will be required to provide proof of address.

What is Needed to Buy a Car in Almería?

The paperwork you need to buy a car in Spain will vary depending on whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller. However, there are some general documents that you’ll need in either case:

NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero): This is a unique tax identification number that you’ll need to obtain if you’re planning on living or working in Spain for more than 90 days.

Passport

Proof of address (padrón): This can be a copy of your rental contract or a certificate of residence from your local town hall.

Proof of income (if financing the car): This can be a copy of your work contract and/or your last three payslips. If you are self-employed your declaración de la renta will be required for the previous year.

Find Reliable Dealerships

Look for reputable dealerships in your area. Check online reviews, and ask for recommendations from a trusted source. Make sure the dealer provides all the necessary paperwork and clear information about the car’s history. If you’re buying a new or used car from a dealership, the process is relatively straightforward. The dealer will take care of most of the paperwork for you.

However, it’s important to do your research before you buy and make sure to read the contract carefully before you sign it.

Best Car Dealerships in Almería Spain

Our recommendation

Škoda Cadena Automoción

Discover Škoda Cadena Automoción: Your Trusted Škoda Dealership in Almería

For those seeking the perfect Škoda vehicle that seamlessly combines quality, innovation, and affordability, Škoda Cadena Automoción stands as the go-to Official Škoda Dealership in Vera, Almería. This reputable establishment offers a wide array of brand-new Škoda models alongside top-notch pre-owned and nearly-new vehicles from various brands, all with a focus on automatic transmission options to cater to individual preferences.

Location and History
Conveniently located at Carretera de Murcia, 30, 04620, Vera (Almería), Škoda Cadena Automoción boasts a storied history dating back to 1971. Over the years, the dealership has solidified its reputation as a trusted name in the automotive sector, consistently delivering exceptional service and quality vehicles to its valued customers.

Explore the Škoda Range
Škoda is widely recognised for manufacturing vehicles that prioritise safety, reliability, and comfort. Embracing the motto ‘Simply Clever,’ Škoda continually seeks to enhance the customer experience by providing practical and intuitive solutions to everyday automotive challenges. Within the showroom, customers can discover an impressive lineup of Škoda models, including:
Škoda Fabia: A compact and nimble car ideal for urban driving, renowned for its efficient fuel consumption.
Škoda Octavia: A compact sedan celebrated for its spacious interior and advanced technological features, perfect for families.
Škoda Superb: An executive sedan boasting an elegant and luxurious design, sure to make a statement.
Škoda Kamiq: A compact urban SUV designed for effortless city navigation.
Škoda Karoq: Another compact SUV combining style with functionality.
Škoda Kodiaq: A spacious SUV with seating for up to seven passengers, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options.
Škoda Enyaq iV: A fully electric SUV built on the Volkswagen modular MEB platform, setting the standard for electric mobility.

Exceptional Customer Service
What truly sets Škoda Cadena Automoción apart is its unwavering commitment to providing exceptional customer service. The professional team at the dealership offers personalised assistance in English, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable car-buying experience. Customers consistently praise the friendliness, professionalism, and knowledge of the sales representatives.

The dealership takes immense pride in delivering tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each customer, ensuring a prompt and efficient vehicle delivery process that prioritises customer satisfaction.

Covering the Levante Almería Area and Beyond
Škoda Cadena Automoción proudly serves the Levante Almería region and neighbouring areas within the province of Murcia.

Special Offers and Contact Information

Škoda Cadena Automoción presents highly competitive prices and leasing options, with special offers currently starting at just €315 through all-inclusive My Renting packages. Customers mentioning EuroWeekly during their visit can access exclusive pricing.

For inquiries or to schedule a test drive of a preferred model, interested parties may contact the dealership at 950 39 31 90 or reach out to the Sales Director, Miguel Ángel, at 637 02 97 37. Miguel Ángel is also available for WhatsApp communication. The dealership warmly welcomes visitors to explore its extensive Škoda collection and immerse themselves in the world of Škoda Cadena Automoción firsthand.

Office Hours for In-Person Visits and Phone Inquiries:
Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Continuous Hours). You are welcome to visit us during lunchtime as well.
Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Complete Contact Information:
Name: Škoda Cadena Automoción
Address: Carretera de Murcia, 30, 04620, Vera (Almería)
Sales Landline: 950 39 31 90
Phone or WhatsApp: 637 02 97 37
Email: ventas@cadenaautomocion.skoda.es
Website: www.skodagrupoveraimport.skoda.es
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cadenaautomocion
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skodacadenaautomocion/

Feel free to reach out to us during our office hours or through the provided contact details. We’re here to assist you with all your Škoda needs and inquiries.

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Our recommendation

SEAT Navarro Segura

SEAT Navarro Segura: Your Destination for Quality SEAT Vehicles and Services

Located in the picturesque regions of Vera and Albox in Almería, SEAT Navarro Segura are a well known and trusted official SEAT dealership, offering a wide range of new and pre-owned SEAT vehicles along with comprehensive aftersales services. With a rich history in the automotive industry dating back to 1971, the dealership has earned a reputation for professionalism, efficiency, and great customer service.

Product and Services Offered
At SEAT Navarro Segura, they take pride in being a one-stop destination for all things SEAT. They provide brand-new SEAT models, a selection of semi-new vehicles, zero-kilometre options, and a variety of second-hand cars from different brands. The official SEAT Aftersales service offered here is staffed by specialised professionals who use genuine SEAT parts for maintenance, mechanical repairs, bodywork, and painting.

SEAT, as one of Spain’s most iconic and recognisable international brands, is renowned for its sporty and dynamic driving experiences at competitive price points. The brand’s diverse lineup includes models ranging from highly efficient traditional combustion engines to light hybrids and plug-in hybrids. These include the youthful SEAT Ibiza, the versatile urban SUV SEAT Arona, the spacious and sporty SEAT León and León Sportstourer, the modern and eye-catching SEAT Ateca, and the large SEAT Tarraco SUV. In 2022, SEAT’s SUV models collectively accounted for over half of the brand’s total sales.

Moreover, SEAT Navarro Segura proudly presents the SEAT MÓ range, which offers 100% electric micro-mobility products and services. This includes the SEAT MÓ eKickScooter 65 and the SEAT MÓ eScooter 125, the brand’s first fully electric motorcycle.

What Sets Them Apart
What truly sets SEAT Navarro Segura apart is its dedicated team, known for its personalised and professional approach. They build strong customer relationships through direct, friendly interactions and efficient service delivery. The dealership covers the entire Levante Almeria region and adjacent areas of the province of Murcia.

Special Offers and Contact Information
For potential customers seeking the latest promotions and special deals, SEAT Navarro Segura encourages them to inquire at their dealership. To get in touch, interested individuals can call or send a WhatsApp message to Lionel Pérez at 0034 659 97 45 01. Visitors are also welcome to drop by their facilities for a dynamic test drive of the SEAT model that piques their interest.

Operating hours are from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on weekdays, and from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays.

For any further information or inquiries, here are the complete contact details for SEAT Navarro Segura:

Address 1: Carretera de Murcia, 30, 04620, Vera (Almería)
Address 2: Carretera Lorca-Baza, Km71.5, 04800, Albox (Almería)
Phone: 950 39 31 69 (Vera) / 950 43 18 18 (Albox)
Email: comercial@navarrosegura.seat
Website: SEAT Navarro Segura Website
Facebook: SEAT Navarro Segura Facebook Page
Instagram: SEAT Navarro Segura Instagram

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Determine Your Budget

Before you start browsing for cars, it’s crucial to establish your budget. Consider not only the purchase price but also ongoing expenses like insurance, fuel, maintenance, and taxes. Keep in mind that in Spain, you’ll also need to pay a one-time registration tax (Impuesto de Matriculación) when buying a new vehicle.

Decide on New or Used

Decide whether you want to buy a new or used car. New cars come with warranties and the latest features. Used cars may be more budget-friendly but may require more maintenance.

Buying from a Private Seller

Buying a car from a private seller can be more risky. You may find good deals on used cars from private sellers, but it’s important to do your due diligence before you buy.

Here are a few tips for buying a car from a private seller:

Inspect the car carefully before you buy it. Look for any signs of damage or wear and tear.

Take the car for a test drive. This will give you a chance to see how the car drives and to identify any potential problems.

Get a history report on the car. This will show you if the car has been in any accidents or has any outstanding loans.

Have a mechanic inspect the car. This is the best way to ensure that the car is in good condition.

Once you’ve agreed to buy a car from a private seller, you’ll need to complete a transfer of ownership form (Solicitud de Transmisión de Vehículos). You can get this form from the Tráfico (Traffic Department).

You’ll also need to pay the following taxes:

Transfer tax (Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales y Actos Jurídicos Documentados): This tax is calculated based on the value of the car.

Road tax (Impuesto sobre Vehículos de Tracción Mecánica): This tax is paid annually, and the amount varies depending on the type of car you have.

Once you’ve paid all of the necessary taxes and completed the transfer of ownership form, you can take your new car to the Tráfico to register it.

Research and Choose the Right Car

Research car models that suit your needs and preferences. Consider factors like size, fuel efficiency, and whether you’ll be driving primarily in urban or rural areas. Spanish roads can be narrow, so a compact car might be more practical in some regions.

Please keep in mind since January 2023, all municipalities in Spain with a population of over 50,000 inhabitants are required to have a low-emission zone (LEZ). LEZs are areas of cities where only vehicles with low emissions are allowed to drive. The goal of LEZs is to improve air quality and reduce pollution.

The following vehicles are typically allowed to drive in LEZs:

Electric cars

Hybrid cars

Plug-in hybrid cars

Petrol cars that meet certain emission standards

Diesel cars that meet certain emission standards

Vehicles that do not meet the emission standards for LEZs will not be allowed to drive in these zones. If you are caught driving a non-compliant vehicle in an LEZ, you may be fined.

It is important to note that the rules and regulations for LEZs can vary from city to city. It is always best to check with the local authorities to find out the specific rules for the LEZ in the city where you are visiting or driving.

If you are planning to buy a car in Spain, it is important to choose a vehicle that meets the emission standards for LEZs. This will ensure that you are able to drive in all areas of the city.

Check Legal Requirements

Understanding the legal requirements for buying a car in Spain is crucial. Here is a car-buying checklist for Almería Spain:

Residency Status

Ensure you have the correct residency status to buy a car. Temporary residents can buy and register a car, but it may be easier if you’re a permanent resident.

Vehicle Registration Tax

Be prepared to pay a vehicle registration tax (Impuesto de Matriculación) when buying a new car. The amount depends on the vehicle’s emissions and can range from 0 per cent to 14.75 per cent.

Vehicle Inspection

New cars usually don’t require an inspection, but used cars may need one. This process, known as the ITV (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos), ensures the car meets safety and emissions standards.

Insurance

You must have insurance coverage to drive legally in Spain. Shop around for insurance quotes and choose a policy that suits your needs and budget.

Negotiate the Price

Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. While Spanish dealerships may not haggle as aggressively as in some other countries, it’s still worth trying to get a better deal.

Complete the Purchase

Once you’ve agreed on a price, the dealer will provide the necessary paperwork. Ensure all documents are in order, including the sales contract, proof of payment, and a transfer of ownership form (Transferencia de Vehículos). Make sure you receive all relevant documents and keep copies.

Register the Vehicle

Visit your local Traffic Department (Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico) to register the vehicle in your name. You’ll need your NIE, proof of address, and all the purchase documents.

Here are a few additional tips for buying a car in Almería

Be aware of scams. There are a number of car-buying scams that target people who are buying cars in Spain. Be wary of sellers who ask for large upfront payments or who offer to sell you a car at a price that is too good to be true. For this reason, it offers more peace of mind to buy with well-known car dealerships in Almería.

Learn some basic Spanish. This will help you to communicate with the seller and to understand the paperwork involved in buying a car.

Consider hiring a gestor. A gestor is a professional who can help you with the paperwork involved in buying a car. This can be a helpful option if you’re not fluent in Spanish or if you’re not familiar with the Spanish legal system. This probably won’t be necessary if you buy with a dealership.

Buying a car in Almería Spain can be a complex process, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the tips above, you can ensure that you have a smooth and successful experience. However, it’s crucial to navigate the legal requirements carefully and make informed decisions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience in your new home.

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