Common ITV Issues by Car Registrations Spain

ITV Test

Whether you’re importing a foreign vehicle or already have a Spanish registered vehicle you will at some point experience a Spanish ITV test. Here we outline the most common issues that should be sorted out in advance, to ensure that the test goes smoothly.

Tyres

In advance of the ITV test it’s a good idea to check the condition of your tyres, that there is sufficient tread remaining and also to make sure there are no tears, rips or bulges in the tyre wall as these will generally result in an ITV fail and you should also bear in mind that tyres on the same axle need to be the same brand.

ABS & Engine Management Lights

If your engine management light is illuminated this will result in a failed ITV test. Similarly, your ABS light should illuminate when the engine is started and extinguish within a few seconds, once the ABS system has been checked. If this isn’t the case with your vehicle it will also result in a test failure and your vehicle having to be retested.

Vehicle Modifications

In order to pass the ITV test your vehicle needs to be standard, or if already registered on Spanish plates any modifications must be included on the Ficha Técnica, so items like aftermarket tow bars, tinted windows, spoilers, lpg conversions etc. all need to be considered.

Vehicle Mileage (imports)

For foreign vehicles that are less than 6 months old or that have less than 6000 kms (3728 miles) on the clock are treated as new vehicles which has significant tax implications.

Headlights & Rear Lights

Similarly if you are importing a right hand drive vehicle, including those first registered in the UK, Ireland, Malta, Cyprus, Australia & Japan, you will usually require their headlights to be realigned so that they will pass the ITV import test. For rear lights, if you only have a single rear fog on the right hand side, then an adaptation or replacement will be necessary.

As ever, if you need expert advice please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Car Registrations Spain.