Do electric cars have to pass the ITV?

One of the doubts that arise when switching to electric mobility is whether electric cars need to pass the ITV. Well, the answer is yes, electric cars must pass the Technical Vehicle Inspection periodically, just like all cars that circulate on the road, regardless of whether they are electric, hybrid, or internal combustion. In this article, we analyze why and provide useful information if you have an electric car and are going to take the ITV.

Difference between the ITV of an electric car and one powered by diesel or gasoline

Gas emissions are what primarily differentiate an electric car from a traditional internal combustion vehicle. For this reason, it is often thought that electric cars do not need to pass the ITV, as this is one of the main issues that diesel and gasoline cars tend to have during inspections.

However, although electric cars do not emit gas emissions and do not have to go through this part of the ITV, they operate just like other vehicles. Therefore, it is also necessary to check that everything is in perfect condition to ensure that driving is as safe as possible.

In this way, they do not undergo the gas emission review but do go through the inspection of the general condition of the car, tires, seat belts, lights, braking, suspension, and other aspects that are taken into account in the ITV. For this reason, the ITV of an electric car is practically the same as that of an internal combustion car.

Price of the ITV for an electric car

Despite not having to undergo the gas emissions test, the ITV for an electric car costs the same as for any vehicle.

It depends on your location, as the price of the ITV can vary depending on the autonomous community, the region, or the inspection center itself. More or less, the price is around 50€, but as we said, it can vary.

How often to take the inspection

As we mentioned, the ITV is practically the same for all cars that circulate on the road, and the only difference is the gas emissions.

For this reason, electric cars must take the ITV with the same frequency as any car:

  • 1st time: Cars must take the ITV for the first time when they are four years old from their registration.
  • When they are over four years old, they must take it every two years.
  • Once they reach 10 years, they must take the inspection once a year.

Keep in mind that although the maintenance of an electric car is more economical than that of an internal combustion car, parts can still wear out in the same way. It is very important to undergo the inspection to ensure that everything is in order.

Tips for passing the ITV if you have an electric car

Internal combustion cars, especially diesel ones that tend to be dirtier, are advised to rev the engine before taking the ITV. This is to clear out any gas dirt that may have accumulated inside.

Logically, this advice does not apply to an electric car. The best thing you can do if you are going to take the ITV with an electric vehicle is to have a pre-inspection with your trusted workshop. This way, they will ensure that the tires are in good condition and that all the lights work properly, as well as the other aspects that are taken into account in an ITV.

We hope we have resolved all your doubts regarding the ITV if you are lucky enough to have an electric car. Remember that it is very important to keep it up to date to enjoy safe driving for both you and other drivers on the road.