[bwc]

Can someone please outline the expenses associated with owning a car in Hong Kong other than the obvious such as price of car and gas. I have read the articles in previous threads but none mention registration, liscence fees, etc. I am not clear what it means when used cars mention "liscensed until April 2005". Thank you.

[KnowItAll]

When you buy a car, you have to pay certain fees.

Licensing fees -- Cars are normally licensed to drive on the roads for a certain amount of time (annual fee). This is transferable. So if you have a car on your hands that is licensed till 2005, april, you don't have to pay this fee, even when the trasfer is done.

The fees are explained here http://www.info.gov.hk/td/eng/services/fees.html

[bwc]

Thank you. The link you provided is very helpful, knowitall. ;-)

[Info central]

In addition to the licensing fees, you must have at least 3rd party insurance (or automatically loose your driving license, if you are stopped without it), check out kwiksure.com for rates. Run by an expat and always give good service.

However the main expense of actually owning a car is the cost of servicing and repair. Therefore it is very important that you choose the car you buy carefully and get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent garage.
HP Cars (2791 4145) can do an inspection for you.