Spanish ITV: how to pass first time and what fails most often

The Spanish ITV does not usually fail cars because of major mechanical problems. More often, it identifies details drivers overlook, many of which can be dealt with quickly. This is the check we carry out before a customer takes the car to the test station.

Lights: the number one reason

With the car parked, switch everything on and walk around it: dipped and main beam, side lights, all four indicators, brake lights (including the high-level one), reverse lights, fog lights and the number-plate light. A blown bulb is an avoidable reason for an unfavourable result, although the classification depends on the type of light and the defect. Also check that both headlights have the same colour and type: if only one bulb has been replaced, the difference may be noticed at the test station.

Headlights with yellowed or cloudy plastic can also cause problems because they scatter the beam and reduce its range. Headlight polishing is usually a straightforward job and can improve visibility at night.

Tyres and brakes

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm, but arriving at exactly the limit is a gamble: if the wear is uneven, one section may already be below it. Check that the tyres meet the approved size and required characteristics for each axle, in line with the vehicle’s homologation. Also look for sidewall cracks caused by the sun, which are common on cars parked outside all summer here.

During the brake test, the machine measures the difference between the wheels on the same axle. If the car pulls to one side when braking or the pedal feels spongy or unusually long, the ITV may identify the problem through the test results.

Emissions

A diesel with a saturated particulate filter or a petrol car with a tired lambda sensor may fail the emissions test. If your car does mostly short trips around Granja de Rocamora or Almoradí and rarely uses a main road, it may be more prone to emissions problems. A sustained drive on a dual carriageway before the appointment can help bring the engine up to temperature, but it is not a substitute for diagnosis and repair. If the engine warning light is on, the MIL may constitute a serious defect in the vehicles and checks to which that requirement applies, so have the car diagnosed first.

What else they look at

- Windscreen: a crack in the driver’s field of view may result in an unfavourable report. - Wipers and washers that work properly. - Mirrors that are complete and undamaged. - Number plates that are legible and securely fixed. - Seat belts that retract and lock correctly, without excessive slack. - No oil or brake-fluid leaks.

Paperwork

Bring the registration document, the technical sheet and, if the car has modifications (towbar, different wheels or changed headlights), the relevant paperwork. An unregistered modification may result in an unfavourable report, even if the car is otherwise in good condition.

If you have been failed

You have up to two months to return with the car repaired. At the second inspection, the station will normally check the items that led to the unfavourable result, but other defects found during the inspection may also be taken into account. Do not leave it until the last day: in summer, appointments in the Vega Baja can fill up.

If you would rather not take the risk, bring the car in first and we will carry out a full check: lights, brakes, tyres, headlights and fault codes. If we find a problem, we will show you and explain what is required for the ITV and what is not.