The vehicle inspection (ITV) is a mandatory procedure that all vehicles must comply with. Its purpose is to verify that the vehicle's general condition and safety features are in a condition that allows it to continue circulating safely for its occupants, other road users, and the environment.
In this post, we review basic information and some tips for passing your vehicle's MOT the first time.
When to pass the MOT according to your vehicle
The first thing is to differentiate between
Non-periodic inspections: These should only be carried out under certain circumstances, such as pre-registrations, legalization of vehicle modifications, inspections for the issuance of duplicate MOT cards, etc.
Periodic inspections: to which all types of vehicles must submit with a frequency established by Royal Decree 920/2017 which varies depending on their class, age and intended use.
Below we show you the frequency of periodic inspections for the most common types of vehicles.
Please note that the age of the vehicle must be calculated from the date of first registration, which is printed on your vehicle's registration document.
Two-wheeled mopeds
Up to 3 years old: Exempt
More than 3 years old: Every 2 years
Motorcycles, three-wheeled vehicles, quadricycles, quads, three-wheeled mopeds and light quadricycles
Up to 4 years old: Exempt
More than 4 years old: Every 2 years
Private cars
Up to 4 years old: Exempt
From 4 to 10 years old: Every 2 years
More than 10 years old: Every year
Light vehicles (vans, trucks and trucks up to 3,500 kg GVW)
Up to 2 years old: Exempt
From 2 to 6 years old: Every 2 years
6 to 10 years old: Every year
More than 10 years old: Every 6 months
Heavy vehicles (trucks and trailers over 3,500 kg GVW)
Up to 10 years old: Every year
More than 10 years old: Every 6 months
Most common defects that prevent passing the MOT
According to data provided by AECA-ITV, in 2018, almost 21% of vehicles failed the first mandatory inspection.
Although the increase in these figures is directly related to the new regulatory standards for polluting emissions implemented this year, among the most serious defects that prevent passing the ITV are those related to the malfunctioning of lighting and signaling (24.9%), axles, tires and suspensions (20.1%), excessive polluting emissions (16.2%), and those related to brakes (13.3%).
The vehicles that presented the most serious defects were trucks, trailers and semi-trailers, buses and vans.
Basic tips for passing the MOT on the first try
The main recommendation is to keep your vehicle's maintenance up to date. There are a number of cost-effective measures that will not only help you pass the MOT, but will also improve your road safety, avoiding unpleasant surprises on the road.
However, we will try to define a series of important points to review just before the MOT, to ensure its successful passage:
Documentation
Check that your vehicle has all the documentation in order and, of course, that everything matches its chassis number.
Vehicle Inspection Card (ITV Card)
Circulation Permit
It is advisable to have a valid vehicle insurance receipt ; it can be requested for certification of the periodic inspection.
Exterior conditioning
The vehicle must be in good condition externally .
Particularly check the overall condition of the body, frame, and underbody . Ensure the rearview mirrors and windows are properly visible , and that the license plates are legible .
Doors, windows and locking mechanisms must be working properly and not have any dents, breaks or major damage.
Periodically check the condition of the windshield wiper blades , checking their wear and ensuring efficient cleaning.
Security Systems
Both the seats and the seat belt must be in good condition.
Also, make sure you have your reflective vest handy inside your vehicle. If you have to stop on the road and get out of the vehicle to access your reflective vest, we recommend finding an alternative location. Finally, make sure this and any other safety equipment in your vehicle is properly approved.
The lights
Check the condition of the lighting and signaling: parking lights, high and low beam, brake lights, turn signals, fog lights, reverse lights, etc. The lights must be level and it is important that none of them are burned out.
It should be noted that 2 out of 10 serious defects are due to lighting and signage .
General mechanics
Before the MOT, it may be worthwhile to have a professional check the vehicle's steering, suspension, engine, and catalytic converter systems, especially in older vehicles or if we have detected a problem before the inspection.
There are simple steps that can help you detect or prevent general mechanical problems. If you have to force the steering wheel to keep the vehicle on a straight path, it may be experiencing a steering problem. Regularly checking fluid levels to detect inadequate parameters or paying attention to abnormal noises from the engine or other systems are also good preventative habits.
The tires
Wheel axles, tires and suspension are also among the most frequently detected serious defects.
Pay special attention to your tires, which must be in good condition. Make sure they have the correct tire pressure , including the spare tire (if you have one). Also, make sure they don't show excessive wear on any part and have a tread depth that guarantees your safety. The minimum tread depth required by law is 1.6 millimeters, but it's highly recommended to replace tires before reaching two millimeters. If you change them, make sure they are the ones indicated in your vehicle's Technical Data Sheet.
Electronic systems
One of the new features is electronic fault reading . This device indicates whether the car has an electronic fault and monitors the proper functioning of systems such as fuel injection, airbags, ABS, or ESP. If a fault warning light has previously come on, it's important to visit a specialized workshop to have it resolved.
Emissions of polluting gases
One of the main reasons why many vehicles fail their MOT is because their carbon monoxide emissions do not comply . These must be within legal limits, and the anti-pollution systems cannot be tampered with.
The brakes
Proper brake function is vital , both for passing the MOT and ensuring the safety of the occupants, and is also another of the main causes of serious defects.
It is important to regularly check that they are working effectively and keeping the vehicle balanced , preventing skidding even on wet pavements.
However, we inform you that the vehicle components that must be inspected, as well as the criteria used to determine their severity, are established by the regulations in the " ITV Station Inspection Procedure Manual, " issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology.
