Is a private car required to carry a fire extinguisher as part of its equipment?

Correct answer

No.

In Spain, the regulations on compulsory safety equipment in vehicles are set out in the General Vehicle Regulations. Under these regulations, the vehicles required to carry approved fire-extinguishing equipment are buses, multi-purpose vehicles and motor vehicles intended for the transport of goods. This requirement applies specifically to motor vehicles whose Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) exceeds 3,500 kg, as well as combinations of non-special vehicles. However, this requirement does not extend to private cars, meaning vehicles intended for their owners’ private use. Therefore, private cars are not legally required to carry a fire extinguisher as part of their equipment. Although it is not a legal requirement for private cars, carrying a portable fire extinguisher in the vehicle may be an additional safety measure, especially in emergencies such as vehicle fires or small fires on the road.