Driving A Dirty Car In Spain Can Lead To A Fine

A new sandstorm known as a Calima has once again coloured the Spanish skies orange. When Saharan dust blows across the peninsula, visibility drops, cars are coated in mud, and road safety becomes a serious concern. What many drivers don’t realise is that during events like this — and at any time of year — you can be fined in Spain for driving with dirty windows that restrict your visibility.

Below is a full guide explaining when the fine applies, what the DGT considers “unsafe visibility”, how to clean your car correctly after a Calima, and how to avoid penalties under Spain’s traffic laws.

What the Law Says About Dirty Windows in Spain

The DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) is clear: if the condition of your windscreen or windows prevents clear visibility of the road, you are breaking the law. According to Article 19 of the General Traffic Regulations, “the glass surface of the vehicle must allow, in any case, the driver clear visibility over the entire road on which he or she is driving.”

The same regulation warns that infringements will be sanctioned under Article 67.2 of the Traffic Law — the article that covers serious offences affecting road safety.

In short: if police consider your visibility impaired, they can fine you on the spot.

How Much Is the Fine for a Dirty Windscreen?

Driving with dirty or mud-covered windows can result in a fine ranging from €80 to €200. If the visibility is severely reduced, officers can even immobilise the vehicle until the windscreen and mirrors are clean enough to drive safely.

This applies whether the dirt is caused by Calima dust, mud rain, insect build-up, salt spray from the coast, or anything else that affects visibility.

Does the Fine Only Apply During a Calima?

No — the fine applies all year round. The Calima just makes the issue more common.

Visibility-related fines can be issued after:

• Heavy rainfall leaving mud splatter
• Driving through agricultural or construction areas
• Salt residue on coastal roads
• Dust accumulation after long journeys
• Tree resin or pollen season

When Police Can Immobilise Your Car

If the windscreen is so dirty that visibility becomes dangerous, the DGT authorises officers to immobilise the vehicle. You will not be allowed to drive until the glass is sufficiently clean. This usually happens when:

• The windscreen is fully coated in dust or mud
• The driver attempts to clear it with wipers, making visibility worse
• Side mirrors or rear visibility are completely obstructed

Immobilisation is more likely during adverse weather events or when drivers ignore warnings.

Is It Illegal to Wash Your Car on a Public Road?

Yes — and this is where many drivers get caught out.

Cleaning your car on a public road can result in a fine of €30 to €3,000, depending on municipal regulations. This includes:

• Using buckets of water
• Using soap or detergents
• Letting dirty water run into drains

If you need to clean Calima dust or winter mud, use a private driveway or a professional car wash.

How to Clean Your Car Safely After a Calima

The tiny Saharan particles can scratch your windscreen if removed incorrectly. Experts recommend:

• Do not use your windscreen wipers — they will drag abrasive dust across the glass.
• Pour warm water from the top so the particles slide downwards.
• Use large amounts of water before wiping anything.
• Clean the wiper blades before using them again.
• Rinse the rubber seals to avoid dragging dirt back onto the glass.

Related Visibility Offences in Spain

Dirty windows are only one part of the DGT’s visibility rules. You can also be fined for:

• Broken or misted headlights
• Driving with fogged-up windows
• Not clearing frost or ice
• Obstructed rear windows

For more on how fines and points work, see: Driving licence points in Spain and how the system works.

Insurance Implications: What Happens If You Have an Accident?

If your visibility is impaired because of dirt and you cause an accident, your insurer may:

• Reduce cover
• Deny certain claims
• Increase future premiums

Insurers consider visibility negligence a contributing factor in road collisions.

FAQ: Dirty Car Fines in Spain

Can you be fined if only the rear window is dirty?

Yes. Any window that affects visibility — including rear visibility — can lead to sanctions.

Do Calima fines apply in winter or only during sandstorms?

They apply year-round. Calima just makes the risk more common.

Can the police immobilise my car for a dirty windscreen?

Yes, if visibility is dangerously reduced.

Does the fine include dirty headlights?

Indirectly, yes. If your lights impair visibility or signal clarity, you can be fined.

Final Tip

A dirty windscreen in Spain isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s a traffic offence that can cost up to €200, risk immobilisation, and even affect your insurance. Keeping your vehicle clean, especially after Calima dust or muddy rain, is essential for both safety and compliance.

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