V16 warning light abroad – What applies to German drivers in Spain?

Introduction: New rules on Spanish roads

Anyone traveling by car in Spain should definitely familiarize themselves with the new safety regulations in 2025 / 2026.
Because Spain is the first country in Europe to replace the classic warning triangle with a modern, connected solution: the V16 warning light.

From January 1, 2026, only approved "V16 conectadas" connected to the DGT platform (Dirección General de Tráfico) will be allowed.
But what does this mean for German drivers traveling to Spain with their own car or living there?
This article explains when the V16 is mandatory, whether you need it as a tourist, and what recommendations insurers and authorities give.

1. What is the V16 warning light?

The V16 light is a yellow, all-around flashing warning signal that is placed on the vehicle roof as soon as it is stranded due to a breakdown or accident.
It replaces the warning triangle, which previously had to be placed 50–100 m behind the vehicle.

Unlike the triangle, the V16 can be activated from the driver's seat.
It is simply switched on and placed on the roof – without leaving the car.
The light is visible from all directions and up to 1 km away and warns approaching vehicles much more effectively.

The "connected" version additionally sends the location to the central platform DGT 3.0, allowing emergency services and navigation systems to be informed of the breakdown in real time.

2. The legal situation in Spain

The basis is the Royal Decree 159/2021, which came into force on July 1, 2021.
It regulates the transition from the warning triangle to the V16 in two stages: