Cost of running a car in Spain

[cases xalo]

Hi Matt

When my friend changed her car over it took approx 1 month. I am sure that this can change depending on if you do the work yourself to save some monies, the time of year (what with summer and fiestas!!) and basically how much work the Trafic Station has to do. The car once it is re-registered will be subject to all spanish laws, and depending on the age of the car (until a family car is 4 years old it is excempt) a ITV (mot).

A spanish ITV can seem complicated but it isnt really. They check the lights (brake lights, head lights etc), horn, brakes, tyre treads, oil, water, windscreen wipers, under the car, noise, fumes. They dont get screwdrivers to it or take things apart like a MOT. The spanish ITV stations are not a mechanic garage although the testers are qualified mechanics. They have nothing to gain if you pass or fail, so the test is fair. The ITV stations, i believe, are government funded or backed. They obviously will allow you to drive away with minor faults, but only to your local mechanics to get the problem sorted and back to ITV station to re-test. Discounts are provided if you return with your car in a set time limit to be re-tested after that you will be charged full price. Bearing in mind, if your car does not have a valid ITV sticker and certificate then your insurance is invalid and that is a serious offence in Spain.

There are companies that specialise in re registering cars and getting all the correct documentation, and obviously their prices will be competitive, so its worth while reading through some of the english newspapers and contacting a few of these companies who will provide you with a step by step guide and estimate to re register.

I hope this has been of some help.

Emma
Cases Xaló S.L.

[Matt]

Hi Emma,

Thanks for your excellent advice!! And I am sure other people reading this will find your posts helpfull.

Matt.

[cases xalo]

Don't hesitate to ask me more questions, I f i can help I will do. Its only learning through experience !!

In another car related question: does any one know of the car scrapyard near Jalon? I am looking for a starter motor to ford Fiesta 1997, but new they are 250€+

Thanks

[Louise31]

Second hand cars in Spain are expensive to buy and tend to have problems because of the heat, ITV's are easy enough to do and are cheap but overall costs connected with cars can be expensive. The biggest thing to remember when buying a car is that all the trafico debts will stay with the car so make sure they are cleared before buying it or you could get a nasty shock.

[bubble]

Second hand cars really hold their value over here.

All vehicles are taxed and require a valid ITV or MOT certificate. The teat is done anually or at six month intervals depending on how old your vehicle is. it is a very quick process, and cheap, costing about 35 Euros.

[Louise31]

Second hand cars really hold their value over here.

All vehicles are taxed and require a valid ITV or MOT certificate. The teat is done anually or at six month intervals depending on how old your vehicle is. it is a very quick process, and cheap, costing about 35 Euros.

Thats odd because out ITV's are due every two years.

[elvenrunelord]

I think your better off going to a professional garage rather than just going to any old person with a set of tools. On average I think cost of living in Spain is lower than in some other EU countries.

[Louise31]

I think your better off going to a professional garage rather than just going to any old person with a set of tools. On average I think cost of living in Spain is lower than in some other EU countries.

But the wages are lower.