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Whether getting out of town on a family holiday or venturing off-road for a few days, protecting your vehicle during off-road drives is essential. The rough terrains, unpredictable weather and unknown hazards can cause wear and tear to your vehicle, possibly leading to expensive repairs down the track. However, by implementing the proper protection, you can ensure that your vehicle remains in its top condition.
Let’s dive into our top tips for protecting your car during off-road adventures without compromising on the thrill factor!
1. Choose the Right Vehicle Accessories for Off-Roading:
Before heading off-road or to the beach, we recommend installing durable off-road-specific accessories. Investing in equipment such as bull bars, skid plates and rock sliders will safeguard the vital components of your car from damage. We also recommend installing reliable winches and tow hooks to assist in recovery situations, along with LED light bars and auxiliary lights to enhance visibility when driving.
2. Prep Your Vehicle for Off-Road Conditions:
Conducting a thorough car inspection before heading off-road is essential for minimising the risk of any mechanical issues during your trip. Check your tire pressure, engine oil, coolant levels, and ensure all essential components of your car are functioning correctly. We also recommend booking for a general inspection and service at least three weeks in advance to avoid any last-minute issues. As we always say, if you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail!
Book an inspection in with us via the button in the top right corner!
3. Choose the Right Tyres:
Off-road or all-terrain tyres are essential for navigating challenging terrains that regular tyres may not be able to handle. Off-road and all-terrain tyres improve your driving via their enhanced traction and durability, which makes them more suitable for sandy or uneven surfaces. Additionally, we recommend checking your tyre’s air pressure, wheel alignment and tread depth before setting out. When in doubt, book in with us for a tyre inspection!
4. Master the Proper Driving Techniques for Off-Roading:
Reckless driving is one of the significant factors contributing to your car’s damage. Whether you are on your regular commute or out on the road, we recommend adopting defensive driving techniques. Remember to maintain a steady and controlled pace, utilise proper throttle control and braking techniques, and adjust your driving style according to the road and weather conditions. Safe driving will help you navigate challenging terrains effectively and prevent any unnecessary damage to your vehicle.
This is your friendly reminder to take safe driving seriously!
5. Protect the Exterior of Your Vehicle:
Ever found random scratches on your car and have no idea where they’ve come from? Trust us, we’ve been there.
To avoid excessive scratches from the weather and debris, we recommend applying a protective coating to shield your car’s exterior. Additionally, installing fender flares, mud flaps, skid plates, and underbody armour will maintain your car’s overall cleanliness when out in the wild weather. We also recommend thoroughly washing your car after the drive to avoid sand, saltwater, mud, and other debris to cause corrosion and damage to your car’s exterior and undercarriage.
6. Know How to Handle Emergencies:
Having the knowledge and equipment to handle any emergency thrown at you is essential for the safety and well-being of you and everyone you are travelling with. We recommend travelling with recovery gear, such as a jack, tire repair hit and an air compressor. You should also familiarise yourself with the basic troubleshooting techniques to address common obstacles on your travels. Preparing a first-aid kit with water, medical supplies, food, and researching your local emergency services and off-road assistance will ensure peace of mind.
With these tips, you can protect your vehicle from potential challenges while enjoying the thrill of off-road and beach adventures. Remember to choose the right accessories, prepare your car, check your tire health, master driving techniques and adopt preventative measures to increase your safety and avoid any issues when venturing out.
Remember that preparation is vital, so we recommend booking a general service with us before your next trip to assess your car’s well-being before venturing out.
Check out our services or call us to book your car for a proper inspection.
Happy off-roading!