South Africa’s dirt roads offer a chance to escape the beaten path and explore stunning landscapes, especially if you are living here in the beautiful Lowveld where driving farm roads is the norm.
While the rugged tracks are fun to drive they can be tough on your car. By taking some precautions, you can ensure your adventure stays on track and avoid any unwanted breakdowns or unexpected damage.
At Protect a Car, we are all about helping you keep your car looking and functioning just as it should. If you are a regular on a dirt road, we have some advice you might find helpful.
Before You Hit the Dirt
- Invest in a Regular Service: Having your car regularly serviced is vital. You should also regularly check your tyre pressure, fluids, brakes, and suspension. Ensure your spare tyre is inflated and easily accessible.
- Raise Your Ride Height (if possible): For vehicles with adjustable suspension, when you hit the road the slight increase in ground clearance can make a big difference.
- Tyre Protection:You should also consider investing in skid plates to shield the underside of your car. Upsized tyres with thicker sidewalls can also offer better protection against punctures and stone damage.
Driving Dirty
- Slow and Steady: Speed is your enemy on dirt roads. Adjust your speed to the road conditions, and anticipate bumps and loose gravel.
- Mind the Gap: Stay away from the edges of the road where loose stones and drop-offs are more common.
- Embrace the Washboard: Those regular bumps are annoying, but don’t fight them by swerving. Grip the wheel firmly and maintain a steady pace.
Extra Protection
- Spare Tyre Essentials: A jack, lug wrench, and a good quality tire pressure gauge are essential. Consider jumper cables and a basic toolkit for roadside fixes.
- Gear Up: Carry a spare fan belt and radiator hoses, common roadside failures on dusty tracks.
- Seal the Deal: Small stones can wreak havoc in your engine bay. Invest in a temporary air filter pre-cleaner to trap dust before it reaches your engine.
The Best Accessories for Dirt Roads
- Recovery Gear: A tow strap or winch can be a lifesaver if you get stuck. Don’t forget shackles and recovery points to securely attach the straps.
- Off-Road Lights: Standard headlights might not be enough on remote dirt roads after dark. Consider adding a light bar or spotlights for improved visibility.
- High-Lift Jack: A standard car jack might struggle on uneven terrain. A Hi-Lift jack is more versatile and can handle tougher situations.
- First-Aid Kit & Fire Extinguisher: Be prepared for anything. Pack a comprehensive first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher for emergencies.
- Portable Air Compressor: Airing down your tyres can improve traction on loose surfaces. A portable air compressor will help you reinflate them when you get back on paved roads.
After the Adventure
- Clean Up: Give your car a thorough wash, paying attention to the undercarriage to remove any built-up dirt and debris.
- Post-Dirt Road Check: Inspect your car for any damage sustained on the journey. Look for stone chips, loose bolts, or signs of wear and tear.
With a little preparation and awareness, you can turn your off-road adventure into a fun memory, not a roadside nightmare. If you need help with protecting your car, be sure to give Protect a Car a call today.
