End of the State of Alarm: how to prepare your car for possible trips?

The end of the State of Alarm has arrived, and more and more drivers are getting closer to heading to their second home or setting off on that long-awaited trip. But before you do, we recommend getting your car ready, since it has been parked for a long time or only used for short journeys. As you know, the second State of Alarm due to Covid-19 began on 25 October with the aim of giving the regions legal cover to tighten mobility restrictions and curb the rise in infections.

This second State of Alarm delegated much of the responsibility to regional governments, including the curfew. Some autonomous communities have already said they will allow travel from 9 May, although in principle, when the State of Alarm is lifted, perimeter lockdowns are eliminated, until the courts rule in favour of the autonomous communities and they can limit mobility on their own. Either way, normal mobility will return, and after a long period without driving long distances, it is advisable to bring your car up to date before setting off on a trip.

End of the State of Alarm: this is how to get your car ready before setting off on a trip

To enjoy the trip you have in mind without any problems, we recommend that you carry out an in-depth inspection of your car, both for good weather and because it has been parked or only used for short journeys. These are the elements you should check:

Battery

This is one of the components that suffers most from the passing of time. If it is more than five years old, we recommend replacing it.

Tyres

They have been bearing the weight of the vehicle for a long time in the same position. Check the pressures, any deformation and their general condition.

Lighting

It is essential to check all the vehicle’s lights so that you can see and be seen: position, dipped beam, main beam, brake, indicators, reversing…

Warning lights

Before setting off, check that no warning light is on.

Fluid levels

Check the condition of the fluids, especially the oil, coolant and brake fluid. If they are below the minimum levels, the car may have a leak.

Windscreen wiper blades

If they have been exposed to the elements for a long time, check them. Lift the wiper blades and check the condition of the rubber.

Air conditioning

It needs to be run for a few minutes on the first journeys, always with the windows open, although this is a recommendation for any time.

Starting

When you start the engine, do not set off immediately. Wait for the car to warm up and the fluids to start flowing through all the circuits. Pull away slowly, without sudden acceleration or harsh braking.

Before setting off on your trip, drive the car for a few days beforehand as a test to see whether you hear any strange noises and to check that the vehicle is working properly after being parked for so long.