Reminder : Emergency Vehicle Light Becomes Mandatory in January 2026

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From 1st January 2026, all vehicles registered in Spain must carry a V16 emergency warning light, replacing the traditional safety triangle. This modern device is designed to keep drivers and passengers safe by eliminating the need to exit the vehicle during a breakdown or accident.

Why the V16 Warning Light is Mandatory

  • Safety: No need to place a triangle on the road, reducing the risk of accidents.

  • Visibility: More noticeable than triangles, especially in low-light or adverse weather conditions.

  • Connectivity: Sends your vehicle’s location to emergency services, speeding up assistance.

Key Features of the V16 Warning Light

To be legal, the V16 light must meet strict DGT approval requirements:

  • Approved: 360° visibility and IP54 protection against dust and water.

  • Connectivity: Built-in system to share geolocation with emergency services.

  • Autonomy: Operates for at least 30 minutes.

  • Flashing frequency: Between 0.8 and 2 Hz.

How to Use the V16 Light

In the event of a breakdown or accident, activate the V16 and place it on the roof of your vehicle to alert other drivers. From 2026, triangles will no longer be required, though foreign vehicles temporarily in Spain may continue using their own warning devices.

Where to Buy

V16 warning lights are available at auto accessory stores, Amazon, Leroy Merlin and MediaMkt etc. For example, Leroys are selling the Help Flash Iot + model for €54 and MediaMkt currently have the model pictured above on offer at €39 instead of €49.

Whichever model you buy make sure the device is DGT approved. Even if your car is foreign plated and spends most of the year in Spain, it’s recommended to switch from triangles to the V16 light for maximum safety and compliance.

Stay safe.

Web Admin.

3 thoughts on “Reminder : Emergency Vehicle Light Becomes Mandatory in January 2026”

  1. Having bought one of these. is there anything i have to do with it apart from putting the batteries. al the instructions are in Spanish?

  2. Jack, assuming you have bought a DGT certified model with geolocation/connectivity technology then there is nothing else to do after you have installed the batteries. There is no registration or activation. The SIM and connectivity are pre-activated by the manufacturer (normally valid until at least 2038). When you switch it on, it automatically flashes the amber light and sends your location to the DGT traffic system.

  3. THANKS i bought the one from media mkt so i assume i will be ok, just have to remember to leave it in the car.

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