1. Lights: Don't Fail for a €5 Bulb

Check every external light before your appointment:

• Dipped and main headlights
• Indicators and hazard lights
• Brake lights
• Rear lights
• Reverse lights
• Fog lights
• Number plate lights

Also check your dashboard for warning lights. An engine, ABS, airbag or other persistent warning light should be investigated before the ITV. If your headlights are working but appear unusually high, low or uneven, have their alignment checked.

2. Tyres: Tread Isn't the Only Thing That Matters

Check all four tyres for:

• Adequate tread depth
• Cuts, cracks or bulges
• Uneven wear
• Exposed cords
• Correct tyre pressures

Also look at the tyres fitted to the same axle. Compatibility matters, so don't assume any two tyres of a similar size are acceptable. Uneven wear can indicate wheel alignment, steering or suspension problems. Don't just replace the tyre - find out why it wore unevenly?

3. Emissions: Don't Leave This Until the Last Minute

Emissions problems can be more expensive than a failed light or tyre. Warning signs include:

• Engine management lights
• Rough running
• Misfires
• Poor fuel economy
• Loss of power
• Unusual exhaust smoke or smells

Diesel vehicles that mainly do short journeys can be particularly prone to emissions and particulate filter problems. Don't rely on taking the car for a fast drive before the inspection and hoping the problem disappears. If there is a warning light or the car isn't running properly, get the fault looked at and diagnosed.

4. Check Visibility and Number Plates

Before you leave for the ITV, check:

• Windscreen for significant damage
• Wipers work properly
• Washer fluid is filled
• Mirrors are secure
• Number plates are clean, legible and securely attached

These are simple checks, but they are exactly the kind of issues that can result in an unnecessary failure.

What Does Inspección Desfavorable Mean?

An inspección desfavorable means the ITV has identified defects that must be addressed before the vehicle can pass.

Don't simply take the report to a garage and say, "Fix everything."

Instead, say:

"The car received an inspección desfavorable. Please check the defects listed on this ITV report and give me a quote before carrying out any work."

This keeps the work focused and helps prevent unnecessary repairs.

How to Ask for a Pre-ITV Check Without Overpaying

Don't ask for a vague "service and make sure it passes."

Ask for:

A targeted pre-ITV inspection to identify defects likely to cause an ITV failure.

Ask the garage to focus on:

• Lights
• Tyres
• Brakes
• Steering and suspension
• Warning lights
• Visible leaks
• Windscreen and wipers
• Exhaust and emissions

Most importantly, make it clear that no repairs should be carried out without your approval.

The Bottom Line

Before your ITV, spend 20 minutes checking the basics yourself. Lights, tyres, wipers, washer fluid, warning lights and number plates are all easy to inspect.

If you notice problems with emissions, brakes, steering or suspension, pay for a targeted pre-ITV check.

Check the simple things yourself. Diagnose real problems properly. And never authorise repairs until you know exactly what needs fixing and what it will cost.