Beginners Guide to Jeep Off Roading

Off-roading requires lots of traction. And to ensure traction, off-roaders choose between full-time four-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive, on-demand four-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive. Each system operates a little differently to provide optimal traction. Full-time 4WD uses either a clutch or a center differential to power the front and rear axles at different speeds. Being full-time, this is how the system works all the time. Part-time 4WD, on the other hand, defaults to two-wheel drive. Instead of using a clutch or center differential, part-time 4WD works by locking the front and rear axles to turn at the same time when more traction is needed. Drivers can shift into and out of 4WD with a button or shifter. It's recommended that drivers remain in 2WD while under usual driving conditions. On-demand 4WD operates similarly to part-time 4WD and uses wheel spin sensors to detect tire slippage and automatically engages the rear wheels to counteract it. All-wheel drive is like full-time 4WD but drives all four wheels at the same speed.

Ensuring that your vehicle is in good health will ensure that you and your car stay safe on the trails. Therefore, before setting out to the trails, it's essential that you do a thorough inspection of your Jeep. When checking it over, be sure to check the tire tread depth and inflation. Also, ensure that your battery is in good condition and fastened down tightly. You should also check your fluids to ensure they are topped off, including your fuel and oil. On the same note, it's best practice to bring extra fuel along for the ride in case. Lastly, check that all of the hoses and lines under the hood are in good condition and free from leaks or cracks. If you're looking to make sure that these checks are done right, bring your car down to the service center at Village Jeep, where an expert technician will be happy to look over your vehicle to ensure it's safe to take off-roading.

Off-roaders, hikers, bikers, skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts have one thing in common; they are protective of their environment. When you're on the trails, take note of all trail signs you see and be sure to follow their instructions, especially ones that state whether or not off-road vehicle use is permitted. When it comes to protecting the land, use your best judgment and common sense. Don't leave any trash behind anywhere, and if you see trash that others have left behind, courteously pick it up to preserve the land. Most outdoor enthusiasts follow a rule to leave the land better than they found it. For your own safety and the safety of the trail, it's best to find an alternative route if it looks to be fragile.

Off-roading requires more finesse and precision, necessitating drivers to drive at lower speeds. For example, the average speed of drivers on California's Rubicon Trail ranges from just 1-5 miles per hour. If you drive a Jeep with a manual transmission, simply letting out the clutch slowly will allow you to crawl over rocks and logs in the lowest gear.

Are you looking for a new Jeep vehicle to help chase your off-roading dreams? Then look no further than Village Jeep! Here, you'll find a vast selection of new and used Jeep vehicles like the legendary Wrangler, the ready-for-anything Grand Cherokee, and the tiny but mighty Compass and Renegade Trailhawk trims. If you already have a Jeep but want to make sure it's ready for the trails, reach out to our service center directly to schedule your next service appointment or use our online scheduler here online. We look forward to seeing you!