O DN Brazil I have already explained how to validate your driver’s license and what the traffic rules are in Portugal. Now, the time has come to answer one of the most common questions among Brazilians living in the country: after all, how much does it cost to own a car here? In yet another Immigrant’s Guide, we show what’s behind the convenience of four wheels — from fixed expenses to everyday unforeseen events.
The purchase price: new and used
Buying a car in Portugal can cost anything from less than 2,000 euros — in the case of older used ones — to values of around 80,000 euros, for new and luxury models. There are good purchasing opportunities on sites such as Stand Virtual, Auto Sapo and OLX, and it is not uncommon to find BMW, Mercedes and Audi at affordable prices, as cars depreciate faster here than in Brazil.
Popular new models, such as the Citroën C3, start at 15 thousand euros, while a new Toyota Corolla can exceed 33 thousand euros. For used vehicles, there are several options for less than 2,000 euros, although older vehicles involve higher maintenance costs and possible breakdowns.
Fixed costs: what you can’t avoid
Having a car in Portugal means having mandatory expenses — and some of them weigh even more than the price of fuel.
Mandatory car insurance
Every vehicle needs civil liability insurance, even if it is not on the road. The average value is around 300 euros per year for new cars, but may be lower for used models. The price varies depending on the driver’s history, type of coverage and car model. Driving without insurance is a serious offense and can result in a fine and seizure of the vehicle.
Single Circulation Tax (IUC)
The IUC is the equivalent of the Brazilian IPVA, but is paid annually in the month the car is registered. The value depends on the type of fuel, displacement and CO₂ emissions. The average is between 50 and 200 euros per year, but older vehicles (before 2007) tend to pay less.
Mandatory periodic inspection
The inspection begins to be required four years after the first registration. Afterwards, it must be done every two years until the eighth year of use and, thereafter, annually. The average cost is around 30 euros per inspection.
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Variable costs: fuel, revisions and unforeseen events
Fuel
The price of gasoline in Portugal is steep: 1.75 – 1.80 euros per liter, on average. According to data from Via Verde, 500 km costs around 54 euros in a gasoline car and 42 euros in a diesel car (diesel here). Trams, on the other hand, cost much less: between 9 and 16 euros for the same distance if charged at home.
Maintenance and revisions
Changing oil, filters, tires, brakes (called brakes in Portugal) and brushes are part of the routine. Revisions must be carried out every 10,000 kilometers or six months, and the cost depends on the model and age of the vehicle. It is also worth reserving extra for washing and internal cleaning, as self-service stations are the rule in Portugal.
Breakdowns and tires
Unforeseen events happen — and, without an emergency fund, your wallet feels bad. A tire change can cost between 200 and 400 euros, and small accidents outside the insurance coverage also weigh heavily.
Other day-to-day expenses
Garage and parking
In big cities, parking can be a headache (and a headache). Paid spaces in Lisbon and Porto cost between 1 and 2 euros per hour, and renting a garage can cost 100 euros per month.
Tolls and Via Verde
Portuguese roads are all tolled. The trip from Lisbon to Porto, for example, costs around 23.50 euros in tolls (called tolls). The Via Verde device allows you to pay automatically and avoid fines for late payments.
Is it worth having a car in Portugal?
It depends on your lifestyle. Those who live in large cities — such as Lisbon, Porto or Braga — tend to live well using public transport, which is efficient, affordable and covers long distances. But if you live far from work, have children or like to travel around the country, a car can provide much more practicality and freedom when traveling.
Ultimately, the average annual cost of maintaining a car in Portugal — including insurance, tax, fuel and maintenance — can exceed 1,200 euros, that is, 100 euros per month, not counting the price of the vehicle. If it doesn’t weigh on your pocket, it’s worth it. But if the idea is to save money, public transport and car rental for occasional trips remain good alternatives.
nuno.tibirica@dn.pt