Operation Exit: 20% of Cars in Madrid Have Deficient Wheels and Suspensions

The General Directorate of Traffic anticipates a 2.5% increase in road travel during Easter, exceeding 15 million journeys. To ensure safety, a Special Operation has been arranged, lasting until midnight on Monday, April 21.

An essential part of safety is not only driving behaviour but also the mechanical condition of the car. Therefore, the Association of Entities for Vehicle Technical Inspection of the Community of Madrid (AEMA-ITV) emphasizes the importance of paying special attention to the vehicle's tyres, the only point of contact between the vehicle and the road.

According to data provided by the DGT, last year, 15.4 million journeys were made. Considering this volume of traffic and the adverse weather conditions in recent weeks—characterized by persistent rain, reduced visibility, and slippery surfaces—it is necessary to pay attention to the vehicle's condition.

In this context, the chapter on axles, wheels, tyres, and suspension gains special relevance, as it is one of the main points checked in the technical inspection and is crucial for ensuring safe driving. According to the association, this was the third section with the most serious defects, representing 19.3% of the total.

The president of AEMA-ITV, Jorge Soriano, points out that "it is essential for drivers to have their MOT up to date before embarking on a long journey, as only then can they ensure that the vehicle's technical condition meets safety and environmental standards, avoiding unforeseen events that could endanger travellers."

Furthermore, Soriano reminds that "in case of suspicion of any defect, one can go to a station to pass a voluntary MOT and thus ensure that the vehicle is in perfect condition."

Verifying that the tyres have the correct pressure and do not show wear is essential to avoid any problems, in addition to checking that the suspension system and axles do not present anomalies.

AEMA-ITV reminds that to carry out the inspection, one can access any of the more than 70 MOT stations in the Community of Madrid. Additionally, the MOT can be performed up to 30 days before the expiration date without affecting the validity period of the next MOT.