Guide
Pre-trip 4WD vehicle checks: a touring checklist
What to check before a 4WD touring trip: servicing, tyres and spares, suspension and steering, cooling, belts and hoses, brakes, electrics, recovery points, load and weights, and the spare parts and tools worth carrying for remote travel.
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Before a 4WD touring trip, service the vehicle well ahead of time, check tyres and spares, suspension and steering, cooling, belts and hoses, brakes, electrics, and recovery points, then weigh the loaded vehicle to make sure it is within its limits. Carry spare parts and tools suited to your vehicle and how remote you are going.
This checklist is general guidance. Always follow your manufacturer's service schedule and get a qualified mechanic to inspect your vehicle. It is part of our 4WD touring guide.
Service early
Book a service a few weeks before departure, not the day before. Tell the mechanic where you are going so they can pay attention to touring wear points. Drive the vehicle afterwards to check for leaks or noises.
Tyres
Tyres are the most common cause of delays on remote trips.
- Check tread depth and condition, including sidewall cuts and bulges.
- Choose a tyre type suited to the terrain; light-truck construction is more resistant to punctures.
- Check the spare is the same size and in good condition.
- Carry a tyre repair kit, compressor and pressure gauge.
- Know how to lower and raise pressures for different surfaces; see our tyre pressures article.
Suspension and steering
Corrugations punish suspension. Check shock absorbers, springs, bushes, steering components and wheel bearings. Look for leaking shocks and worn bushes. If your vehicle is heavily loaded, ask whether the suspension is suitable and legal for the load.
Cooling, belts and hoses
Overheating is common on hot, slow tracks. Check:
- Coolant level and condition
- Radiator for blockages from mud, grass seeds or bugs
- Hoses for cracks and soft spots
- Drive belts for wear
Brakes
Check pads, rotors, fluid and lines. Heavy loads and towing increase brake wear. Mud and sand speed it up further.
Fluids and filters
Check engine oil, transmission, transfer case and differential oils, power steering and brake fluid. Replace air and fuel filters if due. Dusty conditions clog air filters quickly, so carry a spare.
Electrics
Check the starting battery, alternator, lights and any auxiliary wiring. Loose or chafed wiring causes many touring faults. See our 12V power guide for auxiliary systems.
Recovery points
Use rated recovery points fitted to the chassis, not tie-down points or tow balls. See our article on choosing a rated recovery point and the recovery gear guide.
Load and weights
Weight is a safety and legal issue:
- Know your vehicle's GVM (gross vehicle mass), payload and GCM if towing.
- Weigh your loaded vehicle at a public weighbridge.
- Keep heavy items low and secure everything inside the cabin.
- Remember that roof racks have load ratings and raise the centre of gravity.
If you tow, see towing a camper trailer off-road.
Spare parts and tools
Tailor spares to your vehicle and destination. Commonly carried items include:
- Drive belts and radiator hoses
- Fuses, globes and electrical tape
- Engine oil, coolant and brake fluid
- Air and fuel filters
- Hose clamps, cable ties and wire
- A basic tool kit that fits your vehicle
- Tyre repair kit and compressor
Learn how to use them before you leave.
Final checks before departure
| Check | Done |
|---|---|
| Service completed and test-driven | |
| Tyres and spare inspected | |
| Recovery gear and points checked | |
| Loaded weight checked | |
| Spares and tools packed | |
| Lights and electrics working | |
| Documents and registration current |
Where to go next
Frequently asked questions
When should I service my 4WD before a trip?
Far enough ahead that any problems found can be fixed and tested, ideally a few weeks before departure, with a short drive afterwards to check nothing has been disturbed.
How many spare tyres should I carry?
One full-size spare is the minimum. For very remote or rocky trips many tourers carry a second spare or a tyre repair kit. Make sure spares match the fitted tyres.
What spare parts should I carry?
Commonly carried items include belts, hoses, fuses, globes, fluids, filters and the tools to fit them. Ask your mechanic what fails on your model.
Can I go over my vehicle's GVM?
No. Exceeding the gross vehicle mass is illegal and affects handling, braking and insurance. Weigh your loaded vehicle at a public weighbridge.