How Can I Prepare My Vehicle for Off-Roading?
How Can I Prepare My Vehicle for Off-Roading?Ford vehicles are known for their prowess on and off the road. If you plan to take the path less traveled, then there are a few ways you can prepare! Come to Gilland Ford, as we have a well-equipped Service Department for your convenience.
Tires
One of the most important parts of off-roading is the set of tires that your car possesses. Most models are outfitted with standard all-season tires, which are designed to handle a variety of weather conditions, but not necessarily a wide range of terrain types. For this reason, you might want to consider springing for a set of all-terrain tires. They have deep grooves to deal with sand and mud, as well as sturdy, durable construction materials that won’t be easily punctured by debris. That being said, you will still want to get regular tire rotations every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to avoid uneven wear and tear. Check your Owner’s Manual for more information about routine maintenance.
The Right Vehicle
Not all models are equipped for intense off-roading, so it’s important to know the capabilities of your car, truck, or SUV. While sedans can come with available AWD drivetrains, this doesn’t mean that they're well suited for rugged paths outside of Ozark. Having a high ground clearance is a major factor in a vehicle’s ability to go off the road, as rocks, streams, and branches can scratch the underside of your car if you’re not careful. Also, 4x4 drivetrains are designed to make off-roading easier by supplying all of the wheels with equal torque. For this reason, choose a model like the Ford Bronco, Bronco Sport, or Ranger.
Maintenance
There is more that you can do to prepare your Ford for an adventure that takes you down Southern Alabama trails. Going off-roading often takes a greater toll on any car, so it’s best to ensure that you have fresh oil. This lets the engine perform at its peak, resulting in better acceleration, handling, and efficiency. Also, cabin air filters can become clogged if you frequently drive in forested areas or down gravel paths. To keep your seating space free of dust, get a new one from our Parts Department. Our experts at our Service Department can also perform a thorough inspection of your Ford to make sure it’s ready to go off-roading past Ed Lisenby Lake.
