Check Your Lights Before You Go

When you rent a car, it is easy to assume everything is working perfectly, it will be prepared for you, and this is always the intention. However, bulbs can fail at any time, and many issues go unnoticed until darkness falls. A quick light check before departure takes less than two minutes and can prevent dangerous situations.

Start by switching on dipped headlights and walking around the vehicle, or get a passenger to do this. Confirm that both front lights are bright and even. Next, test indicators, brake lights, and reverse lamps. Many hire cars display warnings on the dashboard, but do not rely solely on them — a physical check is best.

If you are travelling alone, use reflections in windows or walls to confirm operation. Most hire companies will replace bulbs free of charge if you return promptly, so report faults immediately.

Spain’s traffic law requires that vehicles maintain full working lighting at all times. Driving without one or more functioning lights can lead to fines, particularly during police campaigns focused on visibility.

Also remember to use the correct lights for conditions. Fog lights should only be used when visibility drops below 100 metres. Misuse can dazzle others and result in a penalty.

Lights must always be used in tunnels, and switched off afterwards, if appropriate, and also in roadworks during a contraflow situation, amongst others.

Another very important note is that modern cars are fitted with daytime running lights, which remain on at all times when moving, but the intention of these lights is to make your vehicle more visible, not to illuminate the road. Not only that, daytime running lights only illuminate the front of the vehicle, and so it is crucial when you need headlights that you use headlights.

This short routine — lights, mirrors, windows — should be part of every driver’s preparation. It ensures you can see, be seen, and enjoy your journey safely, and gets you more used to finding the switches, wherever in Spain the road may lead.