Croatia is a country known for its stunning coastline and rich cultural heritage. Whether you are planning to move to Croatia or are already living there, you may be considering buying a car. If you decide to purchase a vehicle locally or import one from another country, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding vehicle inspection, maintenance and repair, and the major accident breakdown companies and motoring organizations in Croatia.
Rules Regarding Regular Vehicle Inspection
In Croatia, all vehicles are required to pass a regular inspection, called the technical inspection (tehniƒçki pregled), in order to obtain a valid registration. The inspection is mandatory and must be carried out every year for vehicles that are more than 10 years old and every two years for newer vehicles. The technical inspection checks the vehicle’s brakes, suspension, lights, emissions, and other important components to ensure that they meet the minimum safety and environmental standards.
If a vehicle fails the technical inspection, the owner has 30 days to repair the issues and bring the vehicle back for a retest. If the vehicle still fails after the 30-day period, the owner can face fines or even have their vehicle impounded. The cost of the technical inspection varies depending on the type of vehicle, but it usually ranges from 50 to 80 euros.
The technical inspection is similar to the British MOT (Ministry of Transport) test in that it aims to ensure that vehicles are safe and roadworthy. However, the standards of the technical inspection may not be as strict as those of the MOT, and some vehicles may be able to pass even if they have minor issues. It is therefore important to ensure that your vehicle is well-maintained and in good condition before taking it for the technical inspection.
General Standard of Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
The general standard of vehicle maintenance and repair in Croatia varies widely, depending on the age and condition of the vehicle and the skills and experience of the mechanic. There are many reputable mechanics and garages in Croatia that can provide high-quality maintenance and repair services at reasonable prices.
However, there are also many unscrupulous mechanics who may try to overcharge or use cheap, substandard parts to save money. It is important to do your research and choose a reliable mechanic or garage with a good reputation. You can ask for recommendations from friends, colleagues, or other expats, or check online reviews and ratings.
If you are importing a vehicle to Croatia, you should ensure that it is in good condition and has been well-maintained before shipping it. It is also a good idea to have it inspected by a reputable mechanic or garage in Croatia before registering it and taking it for the technical inspection.
Major Accident Breakdown Companies and Motoring Organizations
In Croatia, there are several major accident breakdown companies and motoring organizations that provide emergency roadside assistance, towing, and other services to motorists. These include:
1. Croatian Automobile Club (Hrvatski Autoklub)
The Croatian Automobile Club is a non-profit organization that provides a range of services to motorists, including roadside assistance, travel planning, and vehicle inspections. It also offers discounts and other benefits to members.
Website: www.hak.hr
2. HEP Assistance
HEP Assistance is a private company that provides emergency roadside assistance and towing services to motorists in Croatia. It has a network of service providers across the country and offers different levels of coverage, including basic and premium plans.
Website: www.hep.hr
3. Euroherc Assistance
Euroherc Assistance is another private company that provides roadside assistance and other services to motorists in Croatia. It offers a range of services, including towing, tire changes, and jump-starts.
Website: www.euroherc.hr
4. Allianz Roadside Assistance Croatia
Allianz Roadside Assistance Croatia is a service provided by the insurance company Allianz that offers emergency roadside assistance to its policyholders. It provides services such as towing, battery replacement, and fuel delivery.
Website: www.allianz.hr
5. Avant Car Rental
Avant Car Rental is a car rental company in Croatia that also provides roadside assistance to its customers. It offers services such as tire changes, battery replacement, and lockout assistance.
Website: www.avantcar.hr
If you are planning to drive in Croatia, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with these organizations and their services. You can also consider purchasing a roadside assistance plan or insurance policy that includes emergency roadside assistance to ensure that you are covered in case of an accident or breakdown.
Buying or Importing a Vehicle in Croatia requires careful consideration of the rules and regulations regarding vehicle inspection, maintenance and repair, and roadside assistance. It is important to ensure that your vehicle is well-maintained and in good condition, and that you choose a reliable mechanic or garage for maintenance and repairs. You should also familiarize yourself with the major accident breakdown companies and motoring organizations in Croatia and consider purchasing a roadside assistance plan or insurance policy to ensure that you are covered in case of an emergency. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy safe and worry-free driving in Croatia.