In 2025, 81% of vehicles in Spain cleared the mandatory ITV inspection, yet issues with lighting and emissions continue to cause trouble for many drivers. Experts highlight simple steps to improve the odds of passing.
Spain’s annual vehicle inspection, the Inspección Técnica de Vehículos (ITV), saw 81% of cars and vans pass in 2025, according to AECA-ITV data. While the majority of vehicles met the required standards, a significant 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 problems related to emissions—an area that continues to challenge both drivers and mechanics.
To avoid a negative result for emissions, you need to bring the car in fully warmed up.
Juan José, a seasoned mechanic, points out that 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 is especially relevant for diesel engines, where the opacity of exhaust gases is measured. High levels of black smoke indicate incomplete combustion or a malfunction in the exhaust after-treatment system. For petrol vehicles, inspectors focus on carbon monoxide levels, which can reveal combustion issues.
According to Juan José, one of the most common mistakes 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 key, he says, is ensuring the catalytic converter is hot enough to function properly. “You don’t need to drive aggressively, but the engine should be at operating temperature.” In practice, a few strong accelerations before the test can sometimes make the difference between passing and failing.
While this advice can help drivers avoid unnecessary failures, Juan José emphasizes that regular maintenance remains the most reliable way to ensure a smooth inspection and extend a vehicle’s lifespan. Simple checks—like 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 trend toward stricter environmental and technical standards. As new models with advanced technology enter the market, such as those highlighted in recent updates to electric vehicles like the Renault 5 E-Tech, the bar for compliance continues to rise. For more on how manufacturers are adapting to these changes, see this overview of recent innovations in electric vehicle design.
As the ITV remains a fixture of Spanish road safety, drivers are reminded that a little preparation—and a warm engine—can go a long way in avoiding costly retests.
