Jeeps are what fun, safe, and enjoyable off-road drives are made of. Jeep vehicles will always have that robust signature design, as seen in their Wrangler line. This model has been the gold standard of an off-road-capable everyday driver.
But what is it with this mighty vehicle that makes it the go-to ride for traveling across rough terrain and challenging road conditions?
Make the most of your Jeep Wrangler with these off-roading tips for your next driving adventure.
Must-know Jeep Off-road Tips and Techniques
Perform regular vehicle checks and maintenance.
Before you take your Jeep to your next adventure, you need to ensure its proper working condition. We recommend having a professional mechanic inspect your vehicle and immediately address any concerns. Doing so reduces the chances of experiencing problems while on the road (or on the trail.
Off-road travels bring you to challenging terrains, and your vehicle components work together to keep you safe. Having them in their best working conditions ensures they’ll work right when you need them. For instance, having proper wheel alignment and transmission ratios lets you maneuver your ride out of ditches, mudholes, and other tricky situations.
The frequency of having your Jeep serviced depends on your driving behavior and the severity of the trails you embark on. Some vehicles include a recommended maintenance schedule on their owner’s manual. Other components you need to inspect regularly include the engine oil levels, tires, lights, and brakes.
Watch your speed.
Off-road trails have different surfaces and orientations that need to be negotiated at slower speeds to avoid damage to the vehicle, as well as maintaining an ideal weight distribution. You’ll need to navigate your Jeep Wrangler around rocks, rivers, blind turns, dusty roads, and other terrains that have an inconsistent feel.
Torque and grip are the names of the game when it comes to conquering steep inclines and deep ditches. You’ll want your tires to be fully engaged with the road. Manage your speed so you remain in constant control of your vehicle while off road
Reduce tire pressure.
Driving on paved roads is ideal for factory-recommended tire pressure for better handling and fuel economy. However, a stiff tire isn’t the best option when driving on bumpy roads and over rocks. This is why off-road vehicles will have less tire pressure than normal to maximize the surface area of the tires when going over uneven surfaces.
Softer tires let your wheels grip uneven surfaces more, making your Jeep more stable as it maneuvers around these types of terrain. Moreover, it lessens the chances of rocks and debris puncturing your tires.
Know the best off-road trails.
Another factor you should consider for off-roading is whether or not your Jeep is built and specced according to the terrain. Is your ride better off going through hills, muddy roads, rivers, or sandy or dusty trails?
Another off-roading tip we recommend is knowing what terrain is ahead so you can do all necessary preparations, such as servicing your vehicle and packing components, or choosing any environment-specific modifications. It’s always best to go for the ideal routes that fit what you’re looking for, whether a loop or point-to-point trail. Moreover, planning lets you know how difficult or easy the course will be and how long it will take to reach your destination.
Prepare for the worst.
Even if you’ve prepared everything for a safe and hassle-free journey, experiencing problems along the way is always a factor to be considered.
One of the most common complications you can face as an off-roader is your wheels digging into and getting stuck in mud, sand, or snow. It’s best to come prepared with traction pads, a winch, and recovery straps to help your Jeep get out of these situations.
You’ll also want skid plates on your Jeep to prevent your undercarriage from getting damaged by rocks and debris. These components should be durable, abrasion-resistant, and placed strategically under your ride to protect vulnerable components.
Dents and scratches are normal when you’re doing off-road trails, but additional protection is always a good idea. You can reinforce your Wrangler with heavy-duty body armor to shield your tail lights, bumpers, and other exposed components that are most likely to get dinged up.
Apart from these accessories, it’s also ideal for bringing bottled water and a little extra food. These can come in handy if you happen to get stuck and are waiting for assistance. A first-aid kit is always recommended in a worst case scenario.
Bring a companion.
It’s always a good idea to bring a friend whenever you’re traveling, especially if going off-road. Having someone with you can assist you whenever you or your car runs into issues along the journey. Two heads are better than one during situations like these, and workshopping a solution together will be much quicker and productive than riding alone. You can also have your companion call the shots when navigating through different terrain, so you know when to accelerate, brake, turn, and direct based on whether or not the path is clear.
Be Prepared for Your Next Off-road Escapade
Make the most of your vehicle during your next trip with these Jeep off-road tips and techniques. Be ready to tackle any terrain while keeping your ride in tip-top shape. You’ll be amazed at how capable your Jeep Wrangler is against different obstacles on your next trip.
Visit the Joiiio blog for more off-roading tips from experts.