Regular Vehicle Inspection in Germany
In Germany, regular vehicle inspection is mandatory. All vehicles must pass a periodic inspection, known as the Hauptuntersuchung (HU), to ensure they are roadworthy and meet national safety and environmental standards. The inspection covers aspects such as brakes, lights, suspension, tires, and emissions control.
The inspection is carried out by authorized private companies or by the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV), and a valid inspection certificate is required to renew the vehicle registration.
Equivalent to the British MOT in Germany
The HU can be considered as the equivalent of the British MOT, as both inspections aim to ensure that vehicles are in good condition and comply with national safety and emissions standards. However, the HU in Germany is more focused on technical aspects than the MOT.
It is worth noting that the HU is mandatory for all vehicles in Germany, and the inspection frequency depends on the age of the vehicle. Newer vehicles require inspections every two years, while older vehicles require annual inspections.
General Standard of Vehicle Maintenance and Repair in Germany
The general standard of vehicle maintenance and repair in Germany is high. There are many skilled and experienced mechanics and garages that provide high-quality services, and the use of genuine parts and equipment is common.
It is recommended to take your vehicle to a reputable and licensed mechanic or garage that uses genuine parts and equipment. This will ensure that your vehicle is repaired to the highest standards and remains safe and reliable on the road.
Major Accident Breakdown Companies and Motoring Organisations in Germany
There are several major accident breakdown companies and motoring organizations in Germany that provide roadside assistance, breakdown recovery, and other services to motorists. Here are some of the most prominent ones:
1. ADAC
ADAC is the largest automobile club in Germany, representing the interests of motorists and providing a range of services to its members. The club operates a roadside assistance program that provides 24/7 assistance to its members in case of breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies.
ADAC’s services include towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and other mechanical assistance. The club also provides travel assistance services, such as medical referrals, legal assistance, and language interpretation.
Contact details:
- Website: https://www.adac.de/
- Phone: 0800 5 10 11 12 (local) or +49 89 22 22 22 (international)
2. ACE
ACE is another leading automobile club in Germany, providing a range of services to its members, including roadside assistance, travel assistance, and legal advice. The club’s roadside assistance program covers all regions of Germany and provides 24/7 assistance to its members in case of breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies.
ACE’s services include towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and other mechanical assistance. The club also provides travel assistance services, such as medical referrals, legal assistance, and language interpretation.
Contact details:
- Website: https://www.ace.de/
- Phone: 030 27 57 57 57 (local) or +49 30 27 57 57 57 (international)
3. AvD
AvD is a non-profit motoring organization in Germany, representing the interests of motorists and providing a range of services to its members. The organization’s roadside assistance program covers all regions of Germany and provides 24/7 assistance to its members in case of breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies.
AvD’s services include towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and other mechanical assistance. The organization also provides travel assistance services, such as medical referrals, legal assistance, and language interpretation.
Contact details:
- Website: https://www.avd.de/
- Phone: 069 6606 6606 (local) or +49 69 6606 6606 (international)
4. Arvato Bertelsmann
Arvato Bertelsmann is a leading provider of roadside assistance and breakdown recovery services in Germany. The company operates a fleet of service vehicles throughout the country and provides 24/7 assistance to motorists in case of breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies.
Arvato Bertelsmann’s services include towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and other mechanical assistance. The company also provides travel assistance services, such as medical referrals, legal assistance, and language interpretation.
Contact details:
- Website: https://www.arvato.com/
- Phone: +49 5241 80 64100
5. Allianz Global Assistance
Allianz Global Assistance is a leading provider of travel and assistance services in Germany. The company provides a range of services to its customers, including roadside assistance, breakdown recovery, and other services.
Allianz Global Assistance’s roadside assistance program includes services such as towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, and fuel delivery. The program is available 24/7 and covers all regions of Germany.
Contact details:
- Website: https://www.allianz-assistance.de/
- Phone: 089 624 24 555 (local) or +49 89 624 24 555 (international)
In conclusion, regular vehicle inspection is mandatory in Germany, and all vehicles must pass the HU every two years (or annually for older vehicles) to ensure they are roadworthy and meet national safety and environmental standards. The general standard of vehicle maintenance and repair in Germany is high, so it is recommended to take your vehicle to a reputable and licensed mechanic or garage that uses genuine parts and equipment.
There are several major accident breakdown companies and motoring organizations in Germany that provide roadside assistance, breakdown recovery, and other services to motorists. ADAC, ACE, AvD, Arvato Bertelsmann, and Allianz Global Assistance are some of the most prominent ones, and their contact details have been provided for easy reference. By utilizing their services, motorists can ensure that they have access to assistance in case of emergencies and breakdowns while driving on Germany’s roads.