“Did you paint that on purpose?”
It’s a question I’ve gotten more times than I’d like since painting my once matte black 2000 Jeep Wrangler a vibrant magenta—not pink.
The first time someone asked me, it didn’t even cross my mind what other people would think. I just did it. Of course, I painted it on purpose. Did their opinions bother me? Not really—because I didn’t paint it for them. I did it for me.
When preparing for our move to Costa Rica, one of the biggest debates was whether to buy a car there or ship one down. Both options had their perks—and their pitfalls. Buying one locally?
Pro: It’s already there. Con: It’s already there, but you don’t know what kind of repairs it’s had.
Oh, and let’s not forget the prices. A brand-new Toyota Prado (a popular choice for Costa Rican roads) runs $70–80K. Used ones? About $40K, with a side of “good luck.” Financing?
Nonexistent.
Shipping one from the U.S.? Pro: You know its history. Con: Import taxes and fees are astronomical.
After much research, I made my decision since older cars come with lower import fees. So, I sold my 2022 Lexus RX (too fancy for jungle life anyway) and hopped on Craigslist. That’s where I found her—a 2000 Jeep Wrangler. Matte black, beige soft top, and unapologetically oldschool. My son was fascinated by the roll-up windows.
Six weeks later, she arrived in Costa Rica—damaged. Oil from the ship had leaked onto the hood, ruining the paint job. Repainting was unavoidable, and I knew exactly what I wanted: magenta. Not pink—magenta. Not only can Jeeps pull off any color but we are in Costa Rica, anything goes. I didn’t think twice about how others might react. The thought of a Magenta Jeep made me happy.
Do I regret shipping a car? Not at all. Sure, she’s had her moments. Like the time the brakes gave out on a mountain road (stunt skills saved the day). Or when the shifter handle came off midclimb (again, same mountain). Or when she overheated on a blind curve (you guessed it—same mountains.) Oh, and the AC? Doesn’t work.
But despite the quirks, The Old Magenta is a gem. She’s become something of a celebrity here.
People don’t wave at me—they wave at her. And why not? She’s usually packed with a halfdozen dogs sticking their heads out of the windowless sides. Her unique color and canine passengers make everyone smile, and that’s the coolest thing about her.
Don’t live your life worrying about what others think. Do what makes you happy. Confidence is sexy. I drive my Old Magenta with pride, never once second-guessing how “silly” she might seem. And for the record, locals adore her. “Me encanta tu coche” (I love your car) is practically a daily compliment.
Follow your heart, make bold decisions, and don’t let doubt “steer” you off course.
