Listen for engine sounds. You will avoid a serious malfunction!

Whether we are users of a new car or a vehicle that we have been using for several years, we must take care of its proper use. If we are sensitive to engine sounds and carefully monitor the vehicle to respond immediately to alarm conditions, we will extend the life of the vehicle and improve its safety.

Taking care of the correct operation is not only about troubleshooting and repairing when something has already happened. First of all, these are regular preventive measures.

The list of items we need to pay attention to is long:

- technical review We take the manufacturer's recommendations seriously. We will not save on oil, oil filters, fuel and air. Replace them according to the number of kilometers indicated in the manual or after the specified period of time. Treat the water pump timing belt and spark plugs in the same way. – Negligence in this regard, caused by too long operation, can lead to serious engine damage. It should also be remembered that it is very difficult to assess the condition of these parts during inspection. The situation is different with parts that can be assessed on the basis of a technical inspection. The diagnostician should easily determine the condition of our suspension, brakes or shock absorbers. In such situations, we deliberately replace the parts, being sure that they are worn out and do not fulfill their role, says Radoslav Jaskulsky, an instructor at the Skoda Driving School.

- Daily observation – the actions that we must perform regularly, at least once a month, are checking the oil level and checking the tire pressure. We must remember that by properly operating the car, we prolong its life, but also reduce the daily costs associated with its use.

We also need to make sure the washer fluid is topped up. Snow and mud in winter, dust and swarms of insects in summer mean that the risk of staining the glass is high. Working wipers are primarily for safety, on the other hand, be aware that using the wipers on a dry windshield can quickly scratch it. This will not only affect visibility, but in the coming years we will have to replace the glass.

When driving, pay attention to its behavior on the road. Try to diagnose any potentially unnatural behavior, such as cheating, as soon as possible. Incorrect geometry, incorrectly balanced wheels can lead to component wear and consequently poor driving performance and therefore reduced safety.

If we had such an opportunity, let's take the car to the garage. Sunlight, rain or snow can damage the vehicle body and seals.

Let's take care of the engine with two specific situations in mind. Do not charge immediately after starting. The engine takes a few seconds to thoroughly lubricate and a few minutes to warm up to optimal operating conditions. Also, do not warm up the engine in the parking lot. Immediately after starting the engine, we must go.

For proper operation of the vehicle, it is worth using a modern driving style. One that is based on the manufacturer's recommendations, but also includes eco-driving techniques and tactics. Proper preparation of the car for the road, discarding unnecessary things and following the spirit of environmentally friendly driving guarantee, above all, peace of mind and safety on the road. In addition, we will save on fuel and spare parts.

Proper use is a series of daily activities with the vehicle. It is also the imagination and the willingness to put in a little effort to be an ambassador for a conscious driving style adapted to the road conditions.