Whether you plan to go mudding or rock crawling, you must ensure your off-road vehicle is in top condition. Read this post by Ken Reaser Enterprises in Apopka to learn what to check during your pre-trip maintenance routine.

Off-road adventures can push your vehicle to the limit. That's why it's essential to follow a routine of pre-trip checks a few days before setting off. Preparing your equipment will prevent mishaps during your trip and help you have the best possible experience when you go out mudding, rock crawling, or green laning. Keep reading this post to know what you should check on your vehicle before heading off-road.

What to Check on Your Vehicle Before an Off-Road Adventure

Oil Levels

Can you imagine all the fast-moving pieces that work furiously to move your off-road vehicle through rocky or muddy terrains and hills? All those parts need a coat of oil to protect against friction and heat. Yet, a small amount of oil evaporates when running through the hottest parts of the engine, which is why its levels tend to drop over time. That said, you must be aware of your engine's oil levels. Checking your off-roader's oil levels is a quick, easy, and essential pre-trip check. If you've never performed this preventive maintenance task, follow the steps outlined in your owner's manual. Ideally, your oil level should be between the upper and lower mark on the dipstick. Add more fluid to the reservoir if you ever get a deficient level. Otherwise, call your mechanic if you notice that the oil level is excessive.

Is your vehicle due for an oil change? If so, call Ken Reaser Enterprises in Apopka at (321) 230-6958 to get the top synthetic oil change in Apopka. Don't forget to browse AMSOIL's online store to explore the array of high-quality products for your car's maintenance routine.

Fluids

Oil is the most important fluid for the operation of your engine, but it's not the only one. Your vehicle comprises different systems that rely on other fluids to perform as expected. For example, the cooling system depends on coolant to function correctly. Likewise, the braking system relies on brake fluid to perform. That said, here are the top fluids you should check the level of before setting off on your off-road adventures:

• Windshield washer fluid
• Power steering fluid
• Coolant
• Brake fluid
• Fuel

Air Filter

Traveling on unpaved roads leaves your engine prone to "breathe" dust, sand, pollen, mold, mildew, mud, and even tiny insects. That's when the air filter comes into play. Such a device traps airborne impurities to keep the engine air flor clean. If you skip checking your air filter for a long time, it will inevitably become clogged with dirt and grime. A blocked filter can "suffocate" the engine and compromise its performance. So, ideally, you should check your filter before every ride to clean or replace it before it becomes worn or dirty.

Switch to the most effective synthetic oil in Apopka to keep your vehicle running smoothly for longer. Call Ken Reaser Enterprises in Apopka at (321) 230-6958 or visit AMSOIL's online store to place an order for top-shelf products and lubricants for your car.

Battery Terminals

While a healthy battery can make for a successful off-road ride, a faulty one can fail at the worst time and leave you stranded in the middle of a muddy road. That said, take a look at your battery terminals before each adventure. To that end, protect yourself with gloves and protective eyewear. If they have corrosion, you may notice a layer of greenish or white powder around them. In such a scenario, clean the battery with a wire brush. You can also apply anti-corrosion inhibitors and dialectic around the terminals. Finally, wiggle the wires to make sure they are properly tightened.

Tire Pressure

Tires are essential elements for the performance of your off-road vehicle. On the one hand, they are responsible for gripping all types of challenging surfaces. On top of that, they support the vehicle's weight and absorb surface irregularities. To perform as expected, they need to maintain adequate air pressure. With that said, check the inflation of your tires before every trip. To that end, consult the operating pressure specified in your owner's manual. Then, measure the inflation of each tire with a pressure gauge. If you spot an underinflated tire, fill it with an air compressor to the value recommended in the manual.

Lights

When off-roading, there are several situations where you need to ensure your visibility. For example, you must see and be seen when crossing dusty trails, driving in rain or fog, or at night. That's why you must check your lights as part of your pre-trip inspection routine. To that end, check your car's headlights, taillights, brake lights, high beam headlights, and fog lights. If one of the lights flickers or emits dim light, have your mechanic look into the problem before driving.

Prevent your vehicle from succumbing to friction and extreme heat by feeding it with AMSOIL's XL 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil, a top formula that delivers outstanding protection and extra cleaning power. Contact Ken Reaser Enterprises in Apopka at (321) 230-6958 or visit AMSOIL's online store to order the most effective synthetic oil in Apopka.