The trails are calling your name. Before you hit the road following an extended period of self isolation and driveway storage time, your off-roader may need a little TLC. Here’s some quick tips to make sure your rig is ready for off-roading.
Check your tire pressure.
Sure, you may intend to lower the pressure when you hit the dunes, but you don’t want to ride low on the way there. Having low tire pressure increases fuel inefficiency and can make you more susceptible to losing control of the vehicle while driving.
Make sure your lights are ready to go.
There are a number of reasons fuses go and sometimes it seems like there’s no rhyme or reason. Before you set off, make sure all your lights are working, including the auxiliary ones you may have installed. Also, make sure none of the casings have been damaged and wire housings aren’t showing any signs of dry rot.
Step back and examine the bumpers.
Were you parked in the street and got a bump you didn’t know about? Has something slumped while parked? A once-around the car is a good idea just to be sure.
Don’t forget about the spare tire.
Are there mice living in there? Has something rotted? Take a quick peek to ease your mind.
Check the cooling system.
You don’t have to go elbows deep for this one. Just be sure that there’s nothing obstructing the air intakes, radiator, etc. Leaves, dust, dander, and animal nests can easily take up residency while your rig sits unused.
Take a low speed spin around your neighborhood or head to a parking lot.
To make sure your steering and braking is as it should be after sitting for so long, get the system going in a safe manner at low speed. Execute tight turns, brake check with no one behind you, and ensure the throttle is working as you hope.
Test your tinkers.
Have you been tinkering with your off-roader during lockdown? Be sure to give it a thorough test drive before you set off for a day of fun, testing all your modifications. Even if you think you have everything right, there still may be something amiss.
