Driving on rough terrain is avoidable most of the time. But if you are going a bit more adventurous on your holidays this year, you can expect it to cost time and money. You also need to brush up on your throttle skills to engage in anything more than a road. Here are some tips.
Trailers Won’t Make It
If you have ever watched any episode of Top Gear or The Grand Tour, then you may be well aware of how uneasy caravans can be. The slightest mishap and the trailer will veer off to imminent destruction. However, you can avoid this with off road caravans designed to handle all but the harshest terrain. Why ruin your holiday with a torn-up caravan and your lovely plates all over the place? Take the fight to nature with rugged trailers and caravans that stand up.
Financial Damage Too
You can expect damage to a standard caravan from even the slightest of bumps and turns. But the financial implications are also to be expected. Driving on rugged terrain means turning more than usual, braking harder and increasing wear and tear. All of this can add up to some pretty expensive repairs when you get home, even for an off-road SUV or Jeep. So just be aware that there will be costs you need to cover when you get home after a great summer in the sticks.
Driving on Rough Terrain Kills Tyres
Tyres are, of course, going to take a hit when you venture off-road. Not only will they wear down quicker, but the uneven terrain can play havoc with the pressure. This can cause blowouts and uneven driving, which isn’t fun or eco-friendly. You can help yourself by using the right types of tyres for the surface type. But even then, there are no guarantees when there are so many variables to consider, such as mud and debris, weather and fluctuating temperatures.
Throttle Mastery is Essential
A car’s engine can experience more stress on steep and rugged terrain. And when you need to climb, the engine uses much more energy. You must learn when to apply the throttle and how and how to shift gears correctly. Some SUVs, such as a newer model Range Rover have excellent features that assist with this. But most don’t, so mastering the throttle is essential. It also helps if you periodically make a physical check of the engine to look for warning signs.
The Undercarriage is at Risk
All the bumps and lumps of the terrain can destroy the underside of your car. Rocks and stones can be propelled upward from the tyres, and the terrain itself can scrape the parts. Keep an eye out for larger-than-usual rocks, and never try to drive over something a little larger than a normal speed hump. Of course, there will be times when avoiding them is impossible. In these cases, drive carefully over any debris at a slow speed, and get out and check the car after you do.
Summary
Trailers are at risk when driving on rough terrain unless you have a hybrid caravan. But even the best tyres can be worn down, and drive carefully to avoid irreparable underside damage.
