Chile, located on the southwestern coast of South America, is known for its diverse geography, from the Andes mountains to the Atacama Desert to the Pacific Ocean coastline. Like any other region, Chile has a set of rules and regulations regarding vehicle maintenance, repairs, and breakdown recovery. In this article, we will explore these rules and regulations, the standard of vehicle maintenance and repair, and the major accident breakdown companies and motoring organizations in Chile.
Regular Vehicle Inspection in Chile
In Chile, there is a mandatory regular vehicle inspection requirement called the Technical Inspection of Vehicles (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos or ITV). The ITV is designed to ensure that all vehicles on the road are safe and roadworthy.
The ITV is required for all vehicles over four years old, and the inspection must be conducted every year. The inspection can be done at authorized inspection centers, and the cost is borne by the vehicle owner.
During the ITV inspection, the vehicle is checked for a range of safety and environmental issues, such as brakes, tires, suspension, lights, exhaust emissions, and more. If any issues are found, the vehicle owner must have them repaired and then return for a retest.
General Standard of Vehicle Maintenance and Repair in Chile
The general standard of vehicle maintenance and repair in Chile is good, with authorized garages and mechanics available. The use of winter tires is not required, as snow is not a concern in most parts of the country.
Additionally, Chile has been promoting the use of electric vehicles and has implemented measures to encourage their adoption, such as subsidies for their purchase and use.
Major Accident Breakdown Companies and Motoring Organizations in Chile
There are several major accident breakdown companies and motoring organizations in Chile that provide emergency services and breakdown recovery to motorists. Here are some of the most notable ones:
ACACH
The Chilean Automobile Club (Automóvil Club de Chile or ACACH) is a non-profit organization that aims to promote the interests of motorists in Chile. ACACH offers a range of services, including roadside assistance, travel advice, and vehicle inspections. ACACH operates 24/7 and has a large network of partners and service providers that can provide emergency services and breakdown recovery to motorists.
ACACH’s contact details are as follows:
- Website: https://www.acach.cl/
- Telephone: +56 2 2634 8200
- Email: contacto@acach.cl
Mapfre
Mapfre is a major insurance and breakdown recovery company in Chile that provides emergency roadside assistance and towing services to motorists. Mapfre operates 24/7 and has a large fleet of tow trucks and other vehicles to provide emergency services.
Mapfre’s contact details are as follows:
- Website: https://www.mapfre.cl/
- Telephone: +56 2 2678 0700
- Email: atencion.clientes@mapfre.cl
Cruz Verde
Cruz Verde is a medical emergency and breakdown recovery company in Chile that provides emergency roadside assistance and medical services to motorists. Cruz Verde operates 24/7 and has a large fleet of ambulances and other vehicles to provide emergency services.
Cruz Verde’s contact details are as follows:
- Website: https://www.cruzverde.cl/
- Telephone: +56 2 2429 5000
- Email: info@cruzverde.cl
In conclusion, Chile has a mandatory regular vehicle inspection requirement called the ITV, which is required for all vehicles over four years old and must be conducted every year. The general standard of vehicle maintenance and repair in Chile is good, with authorized garages and mechanics available, and the use of winter tires is not required.
Additionally, there are several major accident breakdown companies and motoring organizations in Chile, such as ACACH, Mapfre, and Cruz Verde, which provide emergency services and breakdown recovery to motorists. It is recommended to have the contact details of these companies on hand in case of an emergency on the road.