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Reminder: Gyrophares to become mandatory for all vehicles in Spain by 2026

By Farah Mokrani • Updated: 17 Jan 2025 • 8:47 • 1 minute read

An orange V-16 gyrophare mounted on the roof of a vehicle, soon to be mandatory in Spain for road safety compliance

The V-16 gyrophare, replacing warning triangles in Spain by 2026, improves safety with better visibility and geolocation features. Credit : Shutterstock, Maleo

As previously reported by Euro Weekly News, a major change is coming for drivers in Spain. From January 2026, having a V-16 gyrophare in your vehicle will no longer be optional—it will be mandatory.

Spain replaces warning triangles with gyrophares

If you’re driving in Spain after 1 January 2026, you’ll need to have a V-16 gyrophare in your car. This small flashing light is set to replace the traditional warning triangle, which has long been used to signal a breakdown or accident on the road.

Why the change? Authorities say the triangle poses safety risks, particularly because it requires drivers to exit their vehicle and walk to place it on the road—a dangerous move, especially on motorways. The V-16 gyrophare, on the other hand, can be placed on the car’s roof or door magnetically, without needing to step onto the road.

This bright, flashing orange light is visible from up to one kilometre, even in poor weather like fog. But the device doesn’t just warn other drivers—it also sends your car’s location to Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT), helping emergency services respond more quickly.

The V-16 is compact and can be stored in your glove box when not in use. It runs for at least 30 minutes and costs between €40 and €50.

Penalties for not carrying a Gyrophare in Spain

While the gyrophare has been available since 2021, drivers are still allowed to use warning triangles until the end of 2025. But after that, having a V-16 will be mandatory for all vehicles.

Failing to carry one in your car could result in fines ranging from €80 to €200.

How to prepare for Spain’s gyrophare requirement

This new requirement is designed with safety in mind. The gyrophare is easier to use, more visible, and helps protect drivers during emergencies. It’s a practical step forward in improving road safety across Spain.

Whether you’re a resident or just planning to drive in Spain, it’s worth preparing ahead of the January 2026 deadline. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with a certified V-16 gyrophare to stay safe—and avoid unnecessary fines.

Don’t wait until the last minute—get your gyrophare now and be ready for the change.

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Written by

Farah Mokrani

Farah is a journalist and content writer with over a decade of experience in both digital and print media. Originally from Tunisia and now based in Spain, she has covered current affairs, investigative reports, and long-form features for a range of international publications. At Euro Weekly News, Farah brings a global perspective to her reporting, contributing news and analysis informed by her editorial background and passion for clear, accurate storytelling.

Comments

    • Mp

      18 January 2025 • 09:29

      With Spain’s bendy roads the triangle will still be needed. The new lights do not warn people of danger round a corner in the daytime. The triangle also doesn’t run out of power. Nice idea, but only when combined with the traditional triangle.

    • Jessica

      21 January 2025 • 18:26

      I wonder who has shares in the company producing them

    Comments are closed.

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