Pedro, an ITV technician, demonstrates how the garbage truck passes the inspection: "You can feel the smell."

In Spain, all motor vehicles must successfully pass their MOT (Inspection of Vehicles) on the scheduled date. This ensures that the General Directorate of Traffic meets the technical requirements to legally operate on our country's roads.

Pedro, a technician at an ITV service station, often shows off curious situations he encounters while having vehicles inspected in his TikTok videos. In one of his latest posts, this mechanic shows off the ITV (Technical Inspection) of a garbage truck .

What tests does the garbage truck pass at the MOT?

First, Pedro points out that this type of vehicle must pass the same tests as a regular truck. However, during the inspection, they must inspect the compartment where the garbage is collected and subsequently compressed, as well as the platform where the operator sits or who moves the containers onto the truck.

Pedro also shows the underbody of the truck , which he emphasizes for being "quite simple, well protected, and free of excess oil." Finally, the technician appreciates the cleanliness of the truck compared to other similar types he has inspected.

How do I know if my car needs to pass the MOT?

If this is the first time your car has to go to an MOT station, the most common thing is that the General Directorate of Traffic will send you a notification by letter , warning you that the date for the technical inspection is approaching.

However, if your vehicle has already passed the MOT (Spanish Vehicle Inspection) and you're still unsure when its next inspection is due, you can check in several ways: by checking the vehicle's technical sheet , which shows the registration date; by consulting the miDGT app; or by looking at the MOT sticker located on the windshield, whose color changes depending on the year of the inspection.

What is checked on the vehicle during the MOT?

During the MOT inspection, almost every component of the vehicle is examined. First, the vehicle's identity is verified , checking that the information on the documentation matches the model and chassis number. Then, the body, chassis, windows, and interior are inspected to ensure they are free of damage.

Next, the systems that determine the vehicle's safety are evaluated, including lights and signaling , tires, axles, suspension, brakes , steering, engine, and transmission. Finally, an emissions test is performed using an analyzer to ensure that the permitted levels are not exceeded. In short, a virtually complete inspection of the vehicle is carried out.