Preparation is key to a successful adventure. Before heading out, give your vehicle a look over/inspection. Pilots call this the walk-around, and it’s a good habit to get into. When your up flying you don’t want anything obviously broken to make things worse, same when you’re out wheeling across a summit – you want to know and rely on your equipment and get to know it well. So get in the habit of having a walk around before you hit the trails.
Check your fluids
Check your radiator levels. 4×4 wheeling puts a lot of stress on your engine, and you want to make sure to have proper coolant levels. Coolant should be properly mixed and depending on your location may be seasonal mixtures. Follow what your car manufacturer recommends.
Check your windshield washer fluids & top off. Dirty windows are a sign of having fun on the trail, but seeing out the window is more important. Make sure your windshield wiper blades are in good shape too.
Check your oil. Some vehicles are notorious for burning oil. Top off. If its time for your oil change, get that done before you go off on any long trips.
Check Oil – verify its at right level and doesn’t look dirty
Check Coolant Levels – should be up to marked level
Check wiper fluid – top off
Verify No leaks, broken hoses, spills or oil spots
Check your vehicle
Walk around and inspect your vehicle. Make sure everything is secured, not leaking fluids, fastened down and sturdy.
Check your tires, make sure they’re up to recommended inflation for getting to your trails and if you’re so inclined, drop air pressure while on a trail or out crawling – just remember to “air up” when done. You do NOT want to drive highway speeds with under-inflated tires.
If you have to drive to your location, make sure your sway bar disconnects / quick disconnects are connected and locked. When you get to your off-roading location, depending on requirements, you can disconnect these. Just be SURE to reconnect before you head back out on highway speeds.
Make sure your headlights & taillights all function and work. Headlights should be adjusted for proper height.
Regular service – The list for checking your vehicle can go on forever. Make sure you have your vehicle regularly serviced according to the owners manual that is usually sitting in pristine condition in your glove box.
Plan for safety
Make sure all seats, seatbelts, restraints, and safety devices are fully functioning. If you take your doors off make it a habit of verifying everyone is belted in before you even put it in drive! If you’re driving without doors/roof make sure everyone in the vehicle has proper wind, eye, and ear protection as well as sunscreen and bug repellent.