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A car breakdown is always inconvenient. But if you break down on the Costa Blanca, you soon realise that it can be expensive or dangerous if you don't know the rules. The most important rules at a glance.
Safety first
As soon as the vehicle causes problems, it's time to Set the indicators, reduce speed and head for a safe place. Switch on the hazard warning lights and switch off the engine. Only get out of the car when it is stationary - but then only with a high-visibility waistcoat on.
Set a signal
Spanish law makes a warning signal mandatory. Warning triangles may still be used until the end of 2025, but the V-16 LED light, which is placed directly on the car roof, is already recommended. Advantage: The driver does not have to leave the vehicle to warn the traffic.
Insurance instead of personal initiative
Towing services are not ordered privately, but are organised exclusively via the insurance or car hire company. Anyone who acts without authorisation usually pays twice. Therefore: Have your insurance number and vehicle details ready and inform the responsible provider immediately.
During the waiting period
Stay in the vehicle - provided there is no danger. Otherwise, seek shelter behind crash barriers or at a safe distance. In many cases, hire car customers receive a replacement vehicle as soon as it is established that the car is no longer roadworthy.
Workshop question
The choice is not up to the driver: insurance companies work with partner garages. If you insist on a specific garage, you must agree this in advance and expect to pay extra.
Special features for hire cars
- Emergency numbers are noted in the papers.
- Do-it-yourself repairs are prohibited - even changing tyres is the responsibility of the breakdown service.
- Clarify ambiguities immediately by telephone instead of taking action yourself.
Motorways and motorways
There is a strict ban on repairs on autopistas and autovías. Breakdown vehicles are only towed away by authorised services. Drivers and passengers must leave the car and wait at a safe distance.
▶ Safety waistcoat: compulsory when leaving the car
▶ V-16 light: mandatory from 2026, already permitted today
▶ Towing service: Always via insurance or landlord
▶ Motorway breakdown: personal intervention strictly prohibited
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