If you are the proud owner of a second-hand 4WD and it’s your first off-road gig, you have come to the right place, as we outline vehicle maintenance, which is a critical aspect of 4WD ownership. Australia is a rugged place and with a good 4WD, you can go anywhere!
Engine care
Whether diesel or petrol, your power unit is the heart of your vehicle; change the engine oil and filter regularly, install a heavy-duty air box from the online supplier. It is crucial that you have clean air going into the engine when driving through dust and dirt.
Check engine coolant levels and top up when necessary, while also checking power steering and brake fluid. The line on the reservoir should be midway between the top and bottom lines.
Suspension
Do yourself a favour and get rid of the bog-standard shocks and replace them with top-of-the-range units that can handle any terrain. Good quality shocks stand the test of time and go for a top brand to be sure of a smooth ride.
Grease
The handbook will tell you where all the grease points are on the truck; the newer the vehicle, the fewer grease nipples; technology changed everything with oil seals and encased lubrication.
If you are unsure, take the truck to a manufacturer-approved dealer and they would inspect everything and carry out a service. Click here for more truck maintenance tips.
Power wash
The best tool you can buy is a powerful water jet with a soap bottle so you can cover your truck with foam and waiting a few seconds, sees all the grime vanish with the water.
Get the truck on ramps and power wash the underside, paying close attention to suspension and wheels; if you notice issues, investigate.
Keep the interior clean
Car detailing can be found in most towns and cities; order a trash bin that can be stuck on the rear of a front seat and if you buy a cordless auto vacuum, you can clean the interior every time you wash your truck.
Owner’s manual
This is your Bible when it comes to vehicle maintenance; consult the rear section for all service information. Record all service info in the section provided and when you come to sell, you should receive a top price.
Most owners replace stock gear with upmarket parts and there are online suppliers with the best prices for the best gear.
Buy stuff online
You are sure to be adding components to upgrade the vehicle and the lowest prices are with the online suppliers.
Whether a snorkel air intake or a winch, it’s easy to source with Google, use the right search terms and you get taken to the best shopping cart sites. Once you bookmark the site, you can get notifications when certain products are in stock.
Take care of your truck and it will serve you well and upgrades are available online. You have the same consumer rights when you shop online.
