Top tips for preparing your RHD vehicle for a Spanish ITV test​

If you are importing a right-hand drive car from the UK, part of the registration process is a technical inspection (ITV) to ensure the vehicle is road worthy.

When it comes to the time of the technical test, there are a few issues you need to be aware of, to make sure that the car passes first time. Aside from standard safety tests, the inspector will also check that the vehicle is fit to drive on the left-hand side of the road

Here’s a list of items to check before taking your vehicle to an ITV test.

Headlights
In the UK, headlights are set for driving on the right hand side i.e. they have an angle up to the left. To pass the ITV, the beam pattern must conform to driving on the left – simply lowering the beam or putting masking stickers on is not enough.

Halogen Headlights normally have a fixed reflection plate at the back, so in most cases the headlight units will need to be replaced to pass a Spanish ITV.  

Zenon and LED lights are often switchable, using the vehicles software or an internal switch in the actual headlight unit itself. These tend to be in more modern vehicles so it’s always advisable to check with manufacturer first.

Kiauto is a great website for sourcing headlights which are delivered to you door or garage, (normally within 24 hours).

Rear fog lights
Can be either double (i.e. one on either side) or a single light in the middle or left-hand side. As  vehicles overtake on the left in Spain (opposite to the UK), if a UK vehicle only has a single fog light on the right, this will need to be changed.

Velocimeter (Speedometer)
Needs to show KPH (Kilometres Per Hour). Most vehicles have the KPH on the inside of the MPH ring, or can be switched from MPH to KPH using the dashboard software.

Tyres
Tyres are one of the most scrutinised elements of a Spanish ITV. The UK isn’t as strict with its load and speed rating laws as Spain and it’s vital that the tyres meet the minimum required standard set out in the Certificate of Conformity. So even if you had brand new tyres fitted recently in the UK, ALWAYS get them checked- read this article for all things tyres and ITV

Window laminates
If you have had aftermarket window laminates installed in the UK then it’s a good bet they haven’t the correct stamp or certification on them to pass a technical inspection in Spain. Most installers are happy to validate the laminates, stamp them and give you a certificate without the hassle of a completely new install.

Tow bars, side steps and other extras
Any aftermarket extras must have an EU conformity part number that matches the parts authorised on the Certificate of Conformity or they must be removed completely. The inspectors will be on the lookout for suspension modifications, aftermarket exhausts and also extras like modified bumpers, spotlights etc. Basically, anything that has been added after market could be a problem.

When Importing a right-hand drive car into Spain, the rules are based on vehicles with EU conformity, there are exceptions for vehicles being registered for change of residence, historic, individual homologation or correspondence.

Happy Motoring!