For those of you that love four-wheeling, you know that there are so many different aspects to four-wheel driving as well as choosing and maintaining your vehicle. In fact many times we start out with one vehicle and continue to build it up over time making it the most amazing and awesome 4×4 that we can imagine. Here at HSP in Melbourne, we help you do that. Which not only makes your 4×4 cool but also secure. How awesome is that!
What makes 4×4 different from others!
Four-wheel drive describes a vehicle that has power from the engine going to ALL 4 heels instead of just two like standard vehicles. This engine power, in turn, makes the vehicle a lot more powerful! Because of the different types of suspension on a four-wheel-drive vehicle compared to that of a regular 2WD vehicle, there is more space between the wheels and the terrain which helps the 4×4 navigate better. Most 4×4 vehicles are equipped with a high and low gearbox so that they can drive slow or fast depending on the terrain they are on.
Are you taking appropriate care of your 4×4?
Many of us just buy our favorite 4×4 and forget the main thing, that it is like our child, we have to take care of it. Here are some tips on. Oil must be changed within the suggested service intervals. Checking and changing your oil and oil filter will help your engine and vehicle run smoothly and can improve gas mileage by 1-2%.
- Transmission
It’s very important to check transmission and differential fluid during service intervals. The signs that show the period of service is approaching or has passed are unusual noises, sluggish shifting, or abrupt gear changes.
- Battery
Pay attention to battery life. Battery connections should be kept tight, clean, and free of corrosion. Batteries rarely provide warnings before failing.
- Brakes
To keep calipers, hoses, and other components in top operating condition, the brake fluid must be replaced once a year. A complete flush and fill of the coolant system are necessary for ridding the system of dirt and rust collected from the engine, radiator, and various hoses. Refrigerants may also be checked prior to the onset of warmer seasons. Wheel alignments can realign your wheels to your manufacturer’s specifications. It is very important to know your 4×4 trucks or SUVs limits because the maintainer is considered as only a half battle aspect.
- Applications
Different driving applications put different kinds of stress on your vehicle. Daily commutes, towing, off-roading, all take a toll on your vehicle. When off-roading, the environment you’re tackling comes into play. Make sure to scout any sharp hills before climbing, and always check the depth before crossing any water.
- Air Filter
It is always preferred that the air filter should be changed every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. However, if you constantly frequent trails and dirt roads, it is advised to up the intervals of your air filter changes.
Discussing regularly with your mechanic is one of the great ways to feel for the limits of your vehicle.