Operating Your All-Wheel-DriveVehicle Off Paved RoadsThis off-road guide is for vehicles that have all-wheeldrive. If your vehicle does not have all-wheel drive,you should not drive off-road unless you are on a level,solid surface.Many of the same design features that help make yourvehicle responsive on paved roads during poor weatherconditions — features like all-wheel drive — help make itmuch better suited for off-road use. Its higher groundclearance also helps your vehicle step over some off-roadobstacles. But your vehicle does not have features likespecial underbody shielding and a transfer case low gearrange, things that are usually thought necessary forextended or severe off-road service.Also, see Braking on page 4-6.Off-road driving can be great fun. But it does havesome definite hazards. The greatest of these isthe terrain itself.“Off-roading” means you have left the North Americanroad system behind. Traffic lanes are not marked.Curves are not banked. There are no road signs.Surfaces can be slippery, rough, uphill or downhill.In short, you have gone right back to nature.Off-road driving involves some new skills. And that is whyit is very important that you read this guide. You will findmany driving tips and suggestions. These will help makeyour off-road driving safer and more enjoyable.Before You Go Off-RoadingThere are some things to do before you go out.For example, be sure to have all necessary maintenanceand service work done. Check to make sure allunderbody shields (if so equipped) are properlyattached. Is there enough fuel? Is the spare tire fullyinflated? Are the fluid levels up where they should be?What are the local laws that apply to off-roadingwhere you will be driving? If you do not know, youshould check with law enforcement people in the area.Will you be on someone’s private land? If so, besure to get the necessary permission.4-17
