Motorists' guide to a stress-free Valentine's date

It's that time of the year when we happily shift our attention from ourselves to the ones we love. No, I'm not talking about our beloved cars; I'm talking about our significant others--the regular occupant of the seat beside ours.

As Valentine's Day approaches, here are some tips on how to make your significant other feel more, er, significant:

Get a tune-up. There's no better way to spoil a perfect Valentine's date than by having your car stall on you, whether in the city or, worse, in the middle of a romantic out-of-town getaway. Head on to your trusted casa before it's too late.

Cupid lives in the details. If your car is due for regular waxing, have it done before Valentine's day. Then have the interior cleaned thoroughly--down to every nook and cranny. Make it look like you exerted an effort in preparing for your date.

Freshen up. If your car has seen better smelling-days, spend a bit for a sweet-smelling auto air-freshener like Glade Sport or Ambi Pur.

Plan ahead. With Chinese New Year and Valentine's both falling on a Sunday, expect much traffic. Make reservations now so you don't drive around looking for a date venue. Know the best route, plus back-up routes, to your destination.

Fill her up. The fuel tank, that is. Again, with traffic as bad as it might get, running out of gas should be the least of your worries. Besides, having a loaded tank keeps the option open for a spontaneous road trip to farther destinations.

Make a list, baby. If you have an iPod/mp3 player and can link it to your stereo, make a playlist with your date's favorite music. It's an effort, but it'll show. Plus, it will make traffic much more bearable.

Can you hear me? Having the right music is one thing, keeping the volume within considerate level is another. You two may happen to like the same song but unless your date requests to raise the volume, keep it soft enough so the two of you can still speak without having to yell at each other.

Hands on the wheel. Although it has become common to hold your partner's hand while driving--more so with automatic transmission-equipped vehicles--the proper place for both your hands is on the steering wheel. Your date will understand that your focus is for both your safety.

Hold all your calls. Whenever you text or take a call while driving, you risk your passengers' lives; passengers will rarely ever cite you for it, opting instead to silently object and withhold their apprehension. Be considerate of their unexpressed feelings by not taking calls/messages while driving.

Resurrect chivalry. So what if your car has remote unlocking capabilities? Holding your date's door open when she's entering your car and again upon alighting shows good manners. Ask how the seat adjustment is, and if the aircon is too cold or warm. Take "road rage" out of your vocabulary and make your overall driving experience as pleasant as possible.