Spain intensifies roadside vehicle checks with a special focus on tire condition. The new measures apply to all drivers, as violating the rules can lead to hefty fines. According to El confidencial, inspectors are recording even the slightest infractions, with penalties reaching hundreds of euros.
Roadside Inspections
Guardia Civil officers are conducting targeted raids, checking not only for wear but also for compliance with technical tire standards. Tread depth is measured— it must be at least 1.6 millimeters. Any cracks, bulges, or signs of aging are grounds for sanctions. Each faulty tire can incur a separate fine, which may reach up to 200 euros.
Special attention is paid not only to appearance but also to tire markings. All required codes and numbers must be clearly visible on the sidewall of every tire. These details must match the car’s technical passport. Any mismatch in width, profile, diameter, load index or speed rating is automatically considered a violation.
Markings and Compliance
Using tires that are not approved for a specific model, or lacking special markings (such as M+S for winter conditions), also results in fines. In some cases, when weather conditions require chains or special tires, their absence is grounds for penalties. According to El confidencial, inspectors carefully check all parameters to rule out any discrepancies.
Drivers often overlook the importance of correct tire pressure. This information is usually indicated on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Failing to comply with the recommended levels increases the risk of an accident and can also lead to fines. If several violations are found, the total penalties can reach up to 800 euros.
Consequences for drivers
The new regulations are aimed at improving road safety in the country. Worn or improperly selected tires increase the likelihood of accidents, especially on highways and in challenging weather. According to El confidencial, inspectors go beyond visual checks — they use special devices to measure tread depth and pressure.
Drivers are advised to check tire condition before every trip, match the markings with the documents, and monitor pressure. Ignoring these simple rules can result not only in fines but also serious safety consequences.
Reference information
In recent years, Spain has repeatedly launched campaigns to monitor the technical condition of vehicles. Special attention was paid to the braking system, lighting devices, and the state of the windows. However, it was the tire inspections that led to a sharp increase in the number of fines. In 2025, similar measures were introduced in Catalonia and Andalusia, where the number of accidents caused by worn-out tires dropped by 12%. According to RUSSPAIN.com, similar initiatives are being discussed in other regions of the country.
