Spain’s annual vehicle inspection, the Inspección Técnica de Vehículos (ITV), recorded an 81% pass rate for cars and vans in 2025, information from AECA-ITV data. Most vehicles met the required standards, but a impressive number were held back by two recurring problems: faulty lighting and excessive emissions.
Lighting and signaling issues accounted for 23% of all detected faults, making them the most common reason for a failed inspection. Close behind, 22% of vehicles were flagged for emissions problems, an ongoing challenge for drivers and mechanics.
Juan José, a seasoned mechanic, says many emission failures could be avoided with a simple precaution. “To avoid a negative result for emissions, you need to bring the car in fully warmed up,” he advises. This matters especially for diesel engines, where inspectors measure exhaust-gas opacity. High levels of black smoke point to incomplete combustion or a malfunction in the exhaust after-treatment system. For petrol vehicles, inspectors check carbon monoxide levels, which can reveal combustion issues.
Information from Juan José, one common mistake is arriving at the ITV station with a cold engine, often after short city trips or first thing in the morning. “Many cars fail the test even though there’s nothing seriously wrong,” he explains. The catalytic converter needs to be hot enough to work properly. “You don’t need to lead aggressively, but the engine should be at operating temperature.” A few strong accelerations before the test can sometimes make the difference between passing and failing.
While this advice may help drivers avoid unnecessary failures, Juan José says regular maintenance remains the most reliable way to ensure a smooth inspection and extend a vehicle’s lifespan. Simple checks, such as replacing faulty bulbs and keeping the engine in good condition, can prevent most common issues.
Spain’s focus on emissions and safety in vehicle inspections reflects a broader European shift toward stricter environmental and technical standards. As new models with advanced technology enter the market, including electric vehicles such as the Renault 5 E-Tech highlighted in recent updates, the bar for compliance continues to rise. For more on how manufacturers are adapting, see this overview of recent innovations in electric vehicle design.
As the ITV remains a fixture of Spanish road safety, a little preparation and a warm engine can go a long way toward avoiding costly retests.
