Why Spain?
Spain has a growing used car market with 1.8M+ transactions annually. Major platforms include Coches.net, Wallapop, and Milanuncios. Spain is both a buyer and importer \u2014 many vehicles come from Germany, France, and the Netherlands. The sunny climate means less rust, but UV damage to paint and interiors is common. Diesel dominates the market, though low-emission zones (ZBE) in Barcelona and Madrid are pushing buyers toward petrol and hybrid.
ITV Inspection
The ITV (Inspecci\u00f3n T\u00e9cnica de Veh\u00edculos) is Spain\u2019s mandatory vehicle inspection. First ITV after 4 years, then every 2 years until 10 years old, then annually. The ITV checks brakes, emissions, lights, suspension, tires, and structural integrity. A vehicle with \"Desfavorable\" (failed) result cannot be driven until repaired and re-inspected. Cost: \u20ac30\u201360 depending on the region. The ITV includes mileage recording \u2014 compare with the DGT (Direcci\u00f3n General de Tr\u00e1fico) records.
Common Scams
Germany-to-Spain imports frequently have manipulated mileage. The vehicle is exported with 250,000 km, arrives in Spain with 120,000 km. Cross-reference with DGT history report and foreign service records.
Some vehicles are sold with undisclosed finance agreements. The DGT Informe de Veh\u00edculo shows any reserva de dominio. Never complete a purchase without checking this first.
After Mediterranean flooding events (DANA storms), damaged vehicles are sometimes repaired cosmetically and resold. Check for water marks under carpets, musty smell, and electrical gremlins.