Gas is twice US, more $ for tires, less for repairs if you buy a Toyota. Repairs to suspension from the bad roads are more frequent. If you are unfortunate enough to have a dishonest mechanic ( you are a gringo) repairs are more. From my experience of five years driving one Toyota and two Fords its about %35 to %45 higher than the US. Then you have to throw in the inevitable accident which can bring the costs thru the roof. When I drive here I like to have a trustworthy Dominican sitting next to me so that we can change places quickly when we have accidents. My wife does nicely here. Gringo's cannot be in auto accidents in the DR. When you add it all up it comes to dont drive in the DR if you do not have to. I was told this when new here. I did not listen of course but now I know why they said it. Plus I was very lucky. Hope you are too.