The New Mandatory V16 Emergency Beacons: Everything You Need to Know Before Driving Your Hire Car

Wiber Rent A Car

Hiring a car in Spain from 2026? There’s a new road safety law you should be aware of: the V16 light beacon will be mandatory in all vehicles.

If you’re hiring with Wiber Rent a Car, don’t worry – the beacon is already installed and ready to use in your hire car. We’ll show you where to find it and how to use it step by step.

What is the V16 beacon and why will it be mandatory? Goodbye triangles, hello beacon.

As of 1st January 2026, the traditional emergency triangles will be phased out. Instead, the DGT (Spanish Traffic Authority) will require the use of certified and geolocated V16 light beacons, connected to the DGT 3.0 platform.

These beacons allow you to signal a breakdown without having to exit the vehicle, drastically reducing the risk of being hit by passing traffic.

The beacon is placed directly on the roof of the car and emits a 360º visible light signal as well as a geolocated alert to DGT 3.0, notifying other drivers and emergency services in real time.

Where is the V16 beacon located in Wiber hire cars?

In all Wiber Rent a Car vehicles, the V16 beacon is already included and stored inside the glove compartment.

Always double-check its location before starting your journey, and make sure to return it in perfect condition in the same place to avoid penalties. If you’re unsure, just ask our team at the office or check your booking confirmation email.

How to use the V16 beacon step-by-step in case of a breakdown

Stop the vehicle safely
Try to pull over off the road, apply the handbrake, and switch on your hazard lights.
Activate the beacon from inside the car
Press the power button. If it doesn’t light up, check the AA batteries (open the back as indicated on the device).
Place it on the car roof without stepping out
Lower the window slightly and use your arm to place it on the roof. The magnetic base will hold it in place.
Check it’s flashing properly
The light should be visible up to 1 km away and flash in all directions.
The beacon takes care of the rest
The geolocation system will automatically connect to the DGT 3.0 platform and alert emergency services.
Contact Wiber Roadside Assistance
Call the number provided in your rental agreement. Our team will help you straight away.

What about beacons in hire cars?

One of the most common questions is: “Who is responsible for the beacon when hiring a car?”

With Wiber, the answer is simple: we take care of everything. Your vehicle comes with a fully certified, operational V16 beacon already included. No need to buy or bring your own, or worry about how it works.

All of our vehicles are equipped to comply with this new regulation, so you can relax and enjoy your journey with total peace of mind.

At Wiber Rent a Car, we stay ahead of new regulations so you don’t have to. We want you to enjoy a stress-free holiday, with everything you need already in your hire car. Your safety is our priority.

Reading this because you’ve broken down in one of our cars?

No worries – we’re here to help. Here’s the V16 Beacon Instruction Manual where you’ll find the 6 steps to follow in case of an emergency.