Depends what you mean by "short journeys". Many diesels don't really get into their stride and warmed through until 5 miles plus.

I've just aquired my first ever diesel car and am wondering if there's anything I need to know about running a diesel engine.

For example, should I warm up the engine before I drive off?

No. It will not warm up. Too efficient.

Does it harm it if some weeks I only do short journeys?

Not as long as you give it a regular once a fortnight c 20 mile fast run.. If you keep using for a long time on short journeys only, the filter for removing fine particles from the exhasut gets blocked up...

Or any other useful tips.

Start up and drive away at once, but keep revs below 3,000 rpm and throttle light for first 2-3 miles. Let the car idle before switching off after long hot runs - summer - motorwys- hills- for 1-2 minutes.

Don't be afraid to acclerate hard when warm... helps the system clear carbon debris.

Thanks in anticipation

Edited by madf on 19/01/2011 at 15:33