Used to be that a 4x4 was used primarily as an off-road vehicle. Today, most SUV's and crossovers won't see conditions worse than a snowy highway or dirty construction zone.
What a shame!
Why not join thousands of adventure-seekers and take to the trails on the weekend? It's fun, relatively safe, and it helps foster that bond between man and machine while returning your ride to its ancestral environment.
Of course, there's just one problem.
You've probably got no idea what to do, what to bring, or what your ride can tackle. You're not alone-- but thankfully, a bit of preparedness goes a long way towards successful off-road adventures.
First, get acquainted with the owner's manual and familiarize yourself with your vehicle's various systems. If you've got features like Downhill Assist Control (DAC), a differential lock or Hill Start Assist, now's the time to do learn about them in detail.
Next, you'll need to determine what type of four-wheel drive system is working beneath your ride. Some are totally automatic, while others require drivers to manually select from one of several 'modes'. Find out how to switch between 2-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive (Hi) and 4-wheel drive (Lo) if applicable.
Note any limitations on speed or terrain in these various modes. If you're running an 'all wheel drive' system, you can skip this part.
Find out how to hook a tow-rope or chain to your vehicle, too. If you manage to wind up stuck, a little tug from another machine is often all you'll need to get free. Leave the tow-rope in your ride, along with a shovel and some work gloves, just in case.
What a shame!
 |
Why not join thousands of adventure-seekers and take to the trails on the weekend? It's fun, relatively safe, and it helps foster that bond between man and machine while returning your ride to its ancestral environment.
Of course, there's just one problem.
You've probably got no idea what to do, what to bring, or what your ride can tackle. You're not alone-- but thankfully, a bit of preparedness goes a long way towards successful off-road adventures.
First, get acquainted with the owner's manual and familiarize yourself with your vehicle's various systems. If you've got features like Downhill Assist Control (DAC), a differential lock or Hill Start Assist, now's the time to do learn about them in detail.
Next, you'll need to determine what type of four-wheel drive system is working beneath your ride. Some are totally automatic, while others require drivers to manually select from one of several 'modes'. Find out how to switch between 2-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive (Hi) and 4-wheel drive (Lo) if applicable.
Note any limitations on speed or terrain in these various modes. If you're running an 'all wheel drive' system, you can skip this part.
Find out how to hook a tow-rope or chain to your vehicle, too. If you manage to wind up stuck, a little tug from another machine is often all you'll need to get free. Leave the tow-rope in your ride, along with a shovel and some work gloves, just in case.
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