Check your vehicle before you drive: these hidden offenses could result in a huge fine

If you’re gearing up for that classic Spanish summer road trip, you might want to check your car a little more closely – because, believe it or not, Spanish traffic police (DGT) are dishing out hefty fines for things you never thought could get you in trouble.

We’re not talking about forgetting or speeding. It’s the kind of things you would never think twice about.

Speeding fines are not the only unexpected car fines that you may receive in Spain

It’s that time of year again – the great escape, with half the country hitting the road in search of sun, sea and a bit of much-needed downtime. As families pack their cars for the holidays, a new spoiler is making its rounds: unexpected fines on everyday items found in vehicles.

You’ll hear the same response from any driver who has been stopped in this month: “I didn’t know that was illegal!” Turns out, it’s all too easy to fall foul of the law over stuff you might have packed out of habit—or forgotten was even there.

Stickers and radar detectors: what’s really forbidden?

First on the ‘who knew?’ List: the little stickers that you have collected on previous holidays, or that you stuck to your back window as a bit of a joke. It turns out that unless the sticker is an official ITV inspection sticker or an environmental badge, it shouldn’t even be on your car. Even something as innocent as a holiday memento can cost you, because the rules say anything that might obscure your view—or block your registration plate—is a no-go.

Then there are those radar detectors that some drivers keep in their glove box to spot speed traps. Not only are they totally illegal, but having one in your glove box could hit you with a €200 fine, no questions asked. If you’ve gone a step further and got yourself a radar jammer, brace yourself: you’re looking at a potential €6,000 penalty. It’s better to just stick to the speed limits.

Don’t think of adding extra spotlights to your car or replacing your airbag steering wheels with something flashier. Spanish law is crystal clear—too many lights or any safety features removed, and you’re asking for trouble.

The hidden costs of everyday items in Spain

The twist is what most people don’t realize. The everyday items we leave in the boot and on the backseat are the ones that cause the most concern. A beach ball, a loose shopping bag, or even your kid’s scooter—if it’s not strapped down, it could be classed as a hazard. Anything not properly secured can become a projectile in the event of an abrupt stop. This could lead to fines and, even worse, injury.

Give your car a quick safety check to avoid fines.

What can you do to avoid trouble? Do a 5-minute inspection before hitting the highway. Remove any stickers that are no longer official, leave all gadgets and dodgy items at home and ensure everything is stowed properly. You’ll not only avoid a fine but also keep your family safe on the road.

If you are still uncertain? Check the rules again on the DGT website Before your next trip. It could save you a lot of hassle – and a hefty chunk out of your holiday budget.

In short, this summer it’s not just about beating the heat – it’s about dodging those unexpected fines that could put a real damper on your getaway. Keep yourself safe and smart. Do not let a stupid mistake ruin your Spanish adventure.