Owning a 4×4 does have a lot of perks. Their size is proven to make them safer in the case of a road incident, and they are more fuel efficient than you might think. Driving a 4×4 does allow you certain benefits that you don’t get with other vehicles. However, there are also some factors in common. Just like any other vehicle on the road, a 4×4 needs to be looked after well. This is both a matter of safety and convenience. The last thing anyone wants is to have a problem while they’re driving – let alone break down. Follow these tips to keep your 4×4 in tip-top shape.
Keep Up On Regular Maintenance
It sounds basic – and it is – but lots of 4×4 drivers either forget it, or become too lazy. It is sound advice to keep your 4×4 nice and clean, so make sure you have a schedule for doing so. Giving it a quick spruce once a week is a great place to start. However, you should also ensure that you are cleaning it more thoroughly roughly once every month. Apart from anything else, this is an excellent opportunity to look out for any anomalies which you might need to pay attention to.
Check Fluids and Battery
Unlike regular cars, 4×4 are particularly dependent on transmissions. If this fluid overheats, then its effectiveness can reduce dramatically compared to other vehicles. For this reason, it is particularly imperative that you keep an eye out on the level of the transmissions fluids in your 4×4. Make sure that you keep the fluids topped up. The recommended time frame to check both the fluids and the batteries is once a month.
Check Tyres
Of course, the quality of the tyres is important for any car. But with a 4×4, you can’t take any risks. Make sure you are checking your tyres once a month at the very least. If the pressure becomes too low, don’t leave it – get them sorted as soon as you can. Also remember to replace them at regular intervals. With cheap 4×4 tyres being readily available, there is no reason not to replace them when they are getting a little worse for wear.
Watch Out For Rust
Keeping an eye out for any rust developing is an important aspect of looking after your 4×4. It might be helpful to think of rust as a disease which can affect your car. As long as you spot it early, you can ensure that it doesn’t cause your car too many problems. The moment you see a spot of rust, spray it with any rust remover – and remain vigilant for further signs. You can also take steps to preventing rust in the first place by applying an oil treatment to your vehicle.
Get Professional Help
Finally, a piece of advice which any vehicle owner should take into consideration. There is only a certain amount you can do yourself when it comes to looking after your 4×4. For that reason, it is recommended to get it professionally checked and serviced at least once a year. That way, you can ensure you get the most out of your 4×4.
