The weather is always unpredictable, especially when it comes to off-roading. Although it’s advisable not to drive in the mud, sometimes it is often inevitable; this is why it is always good to have your vehicle prepared at all times. Additionally, for this reason, it is vital to learn and understand helpful off-roading techniques in case you have to drive through muddy terrain. Here are a few tips on how to make your next off-roading journey a major success.
Before the Road
Before traveling out on the road, a few essential items to bring are a shovel and a snatch strap. Both of these items are great for recovery in the case that your vehicle gets stuck in the mud. Also, another significant tip drivers have found helpful is to lower their tire pressures in the case of a muddy location. When the dirt is soft, lower tire pressures make it easier to get through the mud compared to higher tire pressures. Keep in mind that tire pressures should not be dropped too low because this leads to deflation, which will make it harder to get your vehicle out of the mud.
During Your Trip
Once driving on the road, aim to keep your vehicle in one gear to maintain momentum during your journey. Changing the gears of your vehicle too much can make your car get stuck in the mud over time. If you feel that you are slowly losing the momentum of your vehicle, gently move the steering wheel back to forth to help regain momentum.
If You Get Stuck
If you notice yourself stuck in the mud, try to place your vehicle in reverse and press the pedal to help regain momentum. If this does not work for you, the next step of the process is to get out of the car and use your shovel. Continue to shovel away the mud built-up until it clear from under your vehicle. Unfortunately, if this step doesn’t work, it’s time to pull out your recovery gear. Depending on wherever the dirt is, either wedge between the front or back tires of your vehicle. Use your recovery tracks to help regain momentum and help guide your vehicle out of the mud.
How to Access Damage
After your trip is over, it is vital to tend to your vehicle immediately. Leaving mud on your car for an extended period leads to undesired damages to your vehicle; mud damage causes the paint to break off your car, which may be expensive depending on how challenging it is to remove the dirt from your vehicle. Always remember to think quickly and act safely to help preserve your vehicle for the next journey.