What happens if you fail the ITV inspection?

The ITV inspection is Spain’s mandatory vehicle inspection that ensures a car meets the safety and emissions standards established by Spanish law.

How often you need to pass the ITV depends on the type of vehicle and its age, but keeping it up to date is essential to drive legally and ensure road safety.

During the inspection, a technician checks different aspects of the vehicle such as:

• The braking system
• Lights and signaling
• Polluting emissions
• Suspension
• Steering
• The overall condition of the vehicle

In addition, all vehicle documentation is also checked to ensure everything is in order.

But what happens if you fail the ITV inspection? In this article, we explain what a failed ITV means, how long you have to fix the issues and what consequences continuing to drive may have.

What does failing the ITV inspection mean?

Failing the ITV inspection means that the vehicle has defects that prevent it from meeting the minimum safety or emissions standards required by regulations.

When this happens, the ITV result can be classified as:

Passed ITV

The vehicle meets all requirements and can continue driving normally.

Failed ITV

The vehicle has significant defects that must be repaired before it can legally return to the road.

Serious ITV failure

There are serious defects that represent a safety risk. In this case, the vehicle cannot be driven and must be transported by tow truck.

Can I drive with a failed ITV?

Yes, but with limitations.

If the inspection result is failed, you may only drive the vehicle to:

• Go to a repair garage
• Return to the ITV station for a new inspection

Driving with a failed ITV outside of these situations may result in significant fines.

How long do I have to retake the ITV inspection?

Normally, you have up to 2 months to repair the vehicle and take the inspection again.

During this time, it is important to fix all detected issues to avoid failing the ITV inspection again.

In addition, many ITV stations offer the second inspection free of charge or at a reduced cost if it is completed within the allowed time period.

What fine can you get for not passing the ITV inspection?

Driving without a valid ITV inspection can lead to different penalties:

• Expired ITV: fine of up to €200
• Driving with a failed ITV: fine of up to €200
• Driving with a serious ITV failure: fine of up to €500

In addition to the financial penalty, authorities may immobilize the vehicle if they believe it poses a safety risk.

The most common reasons for failing the ITV inspection

Some of the most common reasons why a vehicle fails the ITV inspection are:

• Problems with the lights
• Worn or damaged tyres
• Faulty brakes
• Excessive emissions
• Suspension or steering issues
• Damaged windscreen wipers
• Faulty seat belts

Carrying out regular inspections and preventive maintenance can help you avoid these problems.

What happens if I continue driving without a valid ITV?

Driving without a valid ITV inspection can not only result in fines, but also in serious risks.

A vehicle that does not meet minimum safety standards can increase the risk of accidents for both the driver and other road users.

In addition:

• Insurance may not cover certain damages
• The vehicle may be immobilized
• You could face legal issues in the event of an accident

That is why keeping your ITV inspection up to date is essential for both safety and responsibility.

Tips to avoid problems during the ITV inspection

Before taking your vehicle for inspection, we recommend checking:

• Lights and signaling
• Tyre condition
• Brakes
• Oil and fluid levels
• Emissions
• Vehicle documentation

It is also advisable to carry out regular maintenance checks to detect possible issues before the inspection.

Don’t have time to take your car for the ITV inspection?

We know that finding time to take your car for its ITV inspection is not always easy. That is why at aparca&go we offer our ITV service, allowing you to save time and avoid unnecessary stress.

While you work, travel or enjoy your free time, we take care of bringing your car to the ITV inspection for you. Because keeping your vehicle up to date can also be convenient, fast and stress-free. And honestly, is there anything better than coming back from a trip knowing someone has already taken care of your pending tasks?

At aparca&go, we make your trip complete from start to finish!