How & Why You Need To Regularly Check Your 4WD

Regular checks that will keep you on the road

If you own a 4WD vehicle, it’s important to make sure that it is in good working order. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential for keeping your 4WD running smoothly and safely. 

Every 4WD vehicle requires specific checks to ensure that all wheels are transferring power and operating effectively in slippery conditions. These checks must also be carried out after any repairs to the drivetrain, or anytime you suspect there may be issues. These checks are fairly simple, but they can mean the difference between getting stuck in the mud or making it back to the road again.

Here are some tips on how to check your 4WD:

Check the tyres and pressure

1. Check the tyre tread depth: The tread depth of 4WD tyres should be at least 1.6mm deep across the entire circumference of the tyre. If the tread depth is below this, it’s time to replace your tyres.
2. Check for uneven wear: Uneven wear can be caused by incorrect tyre pressure, incorrect wheel alignment or a worn suspension component. If you notice any uneven wear, it’s important to have your tyres checked by a professional.
3. Check the tyre pressure: The correct tyre pressure for your 4WD will depend on the type of vehicle and the load you are carrying. It’s important to check the tyre pressure regularly and adjust it as necessary.
4. Check for any damage: Look for any signs of damage such as cuts, bulges or cracks in the sidewall of the tyre. If you notice any damage, it’s important to have your tyres checked by a professional as soon as possible.

Check the fluids and brakes function

1. Check the 4WD Fluids:
   1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
   2. Locate the 4WD fluid reservoir, which is usually located near the front of the engine compartment.
   3. Remove the cap from the reservoir and check the fluid level with a dipstick or a measuring cup. The fluid should be at least halfway up the dipstick or measuring cup. If it is not, add more 4WD fluid until it reaches that level.
   4. Replace the cap on the reservoir and start your engine to ensure that all of the new fluid has been circulated throughout your vehicle’s system.
2. Check Brakes Function:
   1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
   2. Apply pressure to each of your brakes in turn, starting with your left front brake and working around to your right rear brake, to ensure that they are all functioning properly and that there is no excessive play in any of them when you press down on them with your foot or handbrake lever (depending on what type of brakes you have). 
   3. If any of them feel spongy or loose, then you may need to have them serviced by a professional mechanic as soon as possible in order to avoid any potential safety issues while driving your vehicle.

Check the steering and suspension

1. Check the steering and suspension components for any signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks, rust, or other signs of deterioration.
2. Check the steering linkage for any looseness or play in the joints. Make sure all nuts and bolts are tight and secure.
3. Inspect the tires for uneven wear, which could indicate a problem with the alignment or suspension system.
4. Check the shocks and struts for any leaks or signs of wear. Replace them if necessary.
5. Test drive the vehicle to check for any unusual noises or vibrations that could indicate a problem with the steering or suspension system.

Check your fuel

Do you have enough fuel to get where you want to go? 

Check all bolts are tight

1. Lift the vehicle: Use a jack to lift the vehicle off the ground. Make sure to use jack stands for safety.
2. Inspect the suspension: Check all of the suspension components for any signs of wear or damage. Look for loose bolts, cracked bushings, and worn out shocks or struts.
3. Check the wheels: Make sure all of the lug nuts are tight and that there is no play in the wheel bearings.
4. Inspect the drivetrain: Check all of the drivetrain components for any signs of wear or damage, including U-joints, CV joints, and driveshafts. Look for loose bolts and worn out parts.
5. Check underbody components: Inspect all of the underbody components such as skid plates, transfer case guards, and differential covers for any signs of wear or damage. Look for loose bolts and worn out parts.
6. Test drive: Take your 4WD out on a test drive to make sure everything is working properly before you hit the trails!

Conclusion

Make sure your 4WD is in good working order by regularly checking the tyres and pressure, fluids, brakes, steering and suspension, fuel and all bolts are tight. Take it out for a test drive to make sure everything is working properly before you hit the trails!