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Date Published: 27/04/2023

These are the 2 new tests that will be part of the ITV in Spain from May

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A new version of the roadworthiness test will come into effect on May 20 in ITV centres across Spain

These are the 2 new tests that will be part of the ITV in Spain from May

Much like the MOT in the UK, all vehicles of a certain age in Spain have to periodically pass the ITV (Inspección técnica de vehículos) roadworthiness test. Most vehicles on Spanish roads fall into the M1 category and don’t have to take the test until the car is four years old. After this, vehicles must be tested every two years until they are 10 years old, when the test becomes annual.

As technology advances and safety regulations are updated, changes are applied to the inspection procedure and on May 20, the new revision of the ITV Procedure Manual enters into force. If your test is due after this date, your car will be checked for two new faults.

The new procedures include an inspection of the emergency call system (eCall) and OBFCM (On-Board Fuel Consumption Meter) data collection system. The good news is that the driver won’t have to do anything extra to prepare for the new tests.

eCall

The eCall system was introduced for all new vehicles on March 31, 2018 and is a rapid notification device that alerts the emergency services in case of an accident. Since its implementation, it has greatly reduced the number of fatalities and serious injuries on Spanish roads.

This important piece of kit must be checked periodically to ensure it’s working properly, hence its entry into the ITV test.

Now read: Pass the ITV for your car in Spain on the first go with these expert tips

OBFCM

In line with European Commission recommendations, the On-Board Fuel Consumption Meter (OBFCM) collects a range of data, anonymously, that help the authorities develop new road safety and environmental strategies. At the ITC centre, technicians will read the information from vehicle’s diagnostic system related to fuel and electrical energy consumption.

This data will not affect the outcome of the ITV test and will be deleted as soon as it is analysed.

The OBFCM applies to the following light vehicles registered after January 1, 2021:

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
Non-plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
Pure combustion vehicles (without electric hybridisation).

In addition to these two new tests, the updated ITV Procedure Manual clarifies that any driver with a disease aggravated by UV exposure can install anti-sun adhesive sheets to their front windshield – previously, only patients diagnosed with lupus were permitted to do so.

However, the reason for using the sheets must be justified, and they must be of an approved brand and correctly applied.

Find all the latest motoring and travel news here or join our Driving in Spain Facebook group for regular updates

Image: Applusiteuve

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