The introduction of mandatory V16 emergency lights for all vehicles in Spain from 2026 has sparked a wave of discussion among drivers. The main concern is how these devices will perform under extreme heat, which is becoming increasingly common in the country. This is not a trivial issue: it involves road safety and potential risks to the vehicles themselves.
V16 signal beacons, which are now required in every vehicle, are certified to withstand temperatures from –10 to 50 degrees Celsius. However, in reality—especially in summer—the temperature inside a car parked in the sun can far exceed these limits. Under such conditions, even certified devices may be at risk of overheating, calling into question their reliability in a critical moment.
Overheating risks
Inside a car left in the sun, temperatures can rise to 70 degrees or more. It is particularly dangerous to store the V16 beacon outside the glove compartment, such as on the dashboard or seats. In these locations, the device’s batteries are exposed to maximum overheating risk, which may lead to malfunction or even fire.
While the chance of a battery explosion is minimal, it cannot be ruled out entirely. Laboratory tests do not always reflect real-world operating conditions. If the beacon overheats, it may fail in an emergency situation—and that is directly a matter of safety for drivers and passengers.
Certification and Control
To be approved for sale and use on Spanish roads, each V16 beacon must undergo strict certification in laboratories such as Applus+ IDIADA or LCOE. Only devices with the appropriate marking are considered legal and safe. The packaging or casing must display a unique code that allows for verification of authenticity and compliance with standards.
However, even having a certificate does not guarantee complete protection from the effects of extreme heat. Drivers are advised to pay close attention to the storage conditions of the device to avoid unpleasant surprises at the most inconvenient moment.
Recommendations for Drivers
Experts recommend storing the V16 beacon only in designated places—most often, the glove compartment, where the temperature is lower than in exposed areas of the cabin. Avoid leaving the device in the sun or near heat sources. If you notice any signs of damage to the casing or battery, the beacon should be replaced immediately.
If you have any doubts about the authenticity of the device or its compliance with standards, you can always consult the official list of models published by the road service. This will help you avoid purchasing uncertified or counterfeit devices, which may fail to operate and can pose a danger to your vehicle.
Context and Experience
In recent years, Spain has faced abnormal heat waves, with temperatures rising above 40 degrees, making it unbearably hot inside cars. Under such conditions, there have already been documented cases of various electronic devices malfunctioning, including navigators and chargers. In 2024, incidents involving battery fires in electric scooters left in cars under the sun were discussed. These events highlight the importance of strictly following storage recommendations for equipment during hot weather and the need for constant monitoring of devices that are crucial for road safety.
