Is Your 4WD Ready for Adventure? Run Through This Pre-Trip Checklist
Before heading off-road, it’s essential to make sure your 4WD is in solid mechanical shape. Use this checklist to inspect your vehicle from top to bottom and help avoid trouble on the tracks.
Start with a visual inspection. Check both the exterior and interior for anything out of place. Then move on to the following areas for a more detailed look:
✔️ Axles & Differentials
Check hubs, seals, vacuum lines, shift motors, vent lines, and front u-joints for leaks, wear or damage.
✔️ Battery
Ensure terminals are clean and tight. Inspect cables for corrosion or fraying.
✔️ Brakes
Inspect pads or shoes, drums, rotors, brake fluid level, hoses, and any signs of leaks. Don’t forget the handbrake and brake lights.
✔️ Belts & Hoses
Look for cracks, fraying, or bulges that might lead to failure under load.
✔️ Body & Frame
Scan for cracks or damage that could compromise the structure.
✔️ Cooling & Heating System
Check coolant levels, radiator, hoses, thermostat, and heater core for leaks or blockages. Clean and straighten any bent fins.
✔️ Driveline & Transmission
Inspect the transmission case, shifter, skid plates, and joints. Look for signs of leaks and check fluid levels.
✔️ Engine
Look over the spark plugs, wires, PCV valve, belts, distributor, and fuel delivery system. Watch for leaks, cracks, or loose connections.
✔️ Exhaust
Check the muffler and tailpipe for rust, holes, or hanging parts.
✔️ Fluids
Top up or replace oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, wiper fluid, gear oil, and power steering fluid.
✔️ Lighting
Test all lights—headlights, brake lights, indicators, and auxiliary lights. Make sure everything is aimed and functioning properly.
✔️ Nuts & Bolts
Tighten any loose axle u-bolts, lug nuts, and other visible fasteners.
✔️ Steering
Check alignment, fluid levels, and inspect hoses and the reservoir for leaks.
✔️ Suspension
Examine shocks, springs, wheel bearings, and steering linkages. Look for uneven wear or leaks.
✔️ Tyres
Check pressure, tread depth, sidewall condition, and make sure your full-size spare is road-ready. Tighten all lug nuts.
✔️ Wipers
Inspect blades for wear and refill washer fluid if needed.
Need New Tyres Before You Go?
If your inspection reveals worn-out tyres, we’ve got you covered. Click here to view our full range of Cooper 4WD tyres or call 1300 COOPER to speak with our tyre specialists about the best fit for your next off-road journey.
