For many drivers, off-road driving is an appealing and exciting prospect. Faced with the idea of leaving the busy roads and covering natural terrain, mudslinging feels like a genuine adventure, but it is also potentially dangerous. If you are thinking of taking your car off-road, there are a number of key preparations to be made first. Learn more from Mills Ford Chrysler.

Know your vehicle

While many cars are very capable of driving off road, some are better equipped than others. Ensure that you understand the performance and specifications of your car, and how it will be able to handle off-road terrain. Your owner's manual will contain a lot of advice and information to start with, but also consider talking to your local dealership (or reviewing the dealership's website) for any additional information that may be relevant. There are a number of key measurements that you should know to establish whether you will be able to cover certain types of terrain. Learn your vehicle's height and width, minimum ground clearance, approach angle and departure angle. This can help you avoid obstacles and prevent damage to your vehicle.

Consider training or coaching

If you have never seriously driven off road, then it may be useful to consider specialist training or coaching. Many companies will offer short courses, where you will be given a combination of theory and practical training. Off roading is not as easy as it looks, and if you rush headlong into your first drive, you may find yourself in dangerous conditions. Experts recommend that you never take an off-road vehicle out alone, and that you always try and travel in a party of at least two vehicles, for additional support and protection. It's also more fun!

Assemble a travel kit

Off-road driving is a great experience, but it can be fraught with difficulties. It pays to ensure that you are prepared and that you have all the right things with you. Your travel kit should include drinking water, first-aid kit, non-perishable food, and additional clothes to help look after the driver and passengers. You should carry spare motor oil, radiator water, brake fluid, gear oil, and wiper blades to help maintain top performance. Ensure that you take a tool kit too, as well as a flashlight (and batteries) and anything you might need to dig or pull the car out of a tight spot (a shovel, gloves and tow rope should be the absolute basics).

Prepare your vehicle

You may need to take some specific steps to prepare your car for off-roading, even if you have a model that is designed for the terrain. You may be able to lift the body to increase ground clearance. Fitting off-road tires can greatly improve traction and handling. Modifications to the engine cooling system can sometimes be made to help cope with the increased pressure. Other changes, including waterproofing, can also be made. Consult our dealership for advice on what is necessary and possible. Before you embark, you need to check a host of parts and equipment on the car, ensuring that everything is in full working order.

Be aware of your terrain

Rain may be a nuisance around town, but off road it can present a potentially lethal hazard. It is important to plan your route and understand how this might be affected by extreme weather. Do not underestimate the power of fast-moving rain water. Make sure you are aware of where higher ground is, in case you are caught in a heavy shower. As a rule, you should never try and drive through water that you could not swim through. Take advantage of local advice. People that live in the area (or have previously visited it) are a great source of advice and warnings for potential hazards. Do your research!

Off-roading holds huge appeal to many drivers, who long for freedom away from the city. With some sensible precautions, it needn't be a dangerous occupation, but it pays to plan carefully, especially if you lack experience.