Whether it is a weekend getaway or a transport shuttle to the worksite, it is important that your 4WDs are kept in top condition to ensure a safe and memorable journey. Without practicing careful 4WD maintenance, you risk having your vehicle break down on the side of the road or suffering an accident with potentially fatal consequences.
That’s why we have prepared this handy pre trip checklist to help you plan for the journey ahead in the most efficient and detailed way. These tips include maintenance checks, safety inspections, and cleaning the 4WD to ensure it is in top condition before you hit the road. By following this pre trip inspection checklist, you are giving yourself the best chance of creating the adventure of a lifetime.
If you’re searching for tough and reliable 4×4 builds to help keep your remote operations running, give us a call on 1300 287 494 or reach out through our online form to make an enquiry.
Our Pre Trip Checklist for 4WD Maintenance
Tyres
As the footing that your 4WD relies on to get around, it is vital that your tyres are kept in top condition. This is especially true when navigating off-road terrain, such as to a worksite that is in a remote area. Top of your pre trip inspection checklist should be checking that your tyres have the right amount of air and enough tread to handle potentially muddy areas. Always pack a spare tyre as well, just in case one goes flat mid-journey.
Fluids and Filters
By regularly checking your 4WDs fluid levels and filters, you will be prolonging the life of the vehicle’s engine. As part of your pre trip checklist, make sure you check the engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant levels, and air intake filter to make sure your 4WD is fit to handle the long road ahead. If you fail to check your fluid levels, you may experience a breakdown and find yourself stranded far from other motorists.
Brakes
Before taking any long journey, it is highly important that your brakes are working as intended to prevent any accidents from occurring. It is recommended that you take your 4WD to a professional before your trip to inspect every part of the vehicle, including the brakes. If you hear any unusual noises or have noticed that your brakes suddenly feel different, it is often a sign that 4WD maintenance is immediately required. Failure to do so could end in tragedy.
Electrical
When performing 4WD maintenance, make sure you do not overlook your vehicle’s electronic components, as they are designed to keep you and your passengers safe. Become familiar with your system’s warning lights, as they often notify you of problems before they become serious issues. You should also perform a check of the vehicle’s battery, including its fluid levels, to make sure everything is in top shape before you hit the road.
Lights
If your trip is expected to involve some night driving, it is vital that your pre trip inspection checklist involves making sure your headlights are working correctly. As the guiding light that helps you reach your destination safely, if your headlights fail mid-journey, you are essentially driving blind. This is also true for your 4WD’s other lights, such as brake lights and indicator lights, as they notify other drivers of your intentions while on the road.
Washing
When your 4WD spends plenty of time off-road navigating muddy tracks and sandy dunes, it is guaranteed to become dirty as this mud and sand becomes attached to its tyres and exteriors. When left clinging to the vehicle, these contaminants can cause rust and other long-term damages, putting the 4WD’s at risk. Your pre trip checklist should include giving your 4WD a good wash, while we also advise scrubbing it down once you have returned from your journey.
Secure a High Quality 4WD Conversion Today!
At Bus 4×4 Group, we specialise in transforming 4WDs into van conversions to help keep your business on the road. Whether you operate a remote mining site, or you want to take sightseers to some of the country’s most hidden locations, our high quality 4×4 people movers will get you there safely and securely.
Get in touch through our online form or give us a call on 1300 287 494 to speak to a member of our friendly team. We would love to hear from you and discuss how our converted Toyota HiAces and Coasters will help elevate your business’ operations and productivity.
