The UK offers a diverse range of terrains for off-roading that can be challenging to navigate, especially at this time of the year. However, with the right gear and equipment, it’s possible to kit out your 4×4 for any type of off road adventure. Here’s a guide to some of the best accessories that can be ordered from your local 4×4 parts centre.
Winches
A reliable winch is an essential piece of equipment for tackling muddy uneven terrain and hills, particularly during the wet UK winters. The winch can be used to extract your vehicle from the inevitable times when you become stuck, or to lend a hand to a mate who has got a bit bogged down.
Roof racks
If you are venturing into remote territory then you will need to take extra cargo with you that can be stored on a sturdy roof rack. They are ideal for transporting camping gear, recovery equipment or other spares. They can also be used to transport sporting equipment such as bikes, kayaks, windsurfers, and so on.
Off-road lights
Off-road routes can be dark in winter and headlamp beams are not always enough to adequately light the way. Therefore many 4×4 owners mount auxiliary LED lights on the front of their vehicle for extra illumination. These can be roof mounted or mounted on the bonnet, depending on what mounting points are available and what type of illumination you need.
Many 4x4s have roof rails that provide convenient mounting points for a light bar. Sometimes lights can also be mounted on a roof rack, grille, or on external roll bars or cages. Always check the legality of extra lights if you want to drive the vehicle on standard roads.
All-terrain tyres
Good quality tyres are the foundation of a great off-road experience. It’s recommended that your 4×4 is fitted with steel-rimmed tyres, because these are more durable and sturdy than aluminium versions. They provide better resistance against impacts and friction.
Mud tyres will make a considerable difference to the off-road performance of your vehicle. They have large tread blocks with large voids around the edges, which allows the mud to be displaced as the vehicle is in motion. This gives better traction on muddy terrain and the tyres are also suitable for chalk and clay surfaces.
If you will be driving over peaty land, wider tyres are recommended for optimum performance. Mud tyres can also be used for normal road driving conditions. For the toughest terrain, extreme tyres with extra-large tread blocks are available. Before setting off, it’s important to check tyre pressure and tread depth, and for any sign of uneven wear.
Filters and snorkels
Make the most of your off-road adventures by fitting a snorkel to your 4×4. This will help to prevent the engine from taking in water during ford crossings by raising the air intake. This reduces the risk of engine seizure through water contamination.
Even if you will not be venturing into deeper water, a snorkel can also ensure that the air filter inhales less dust and sand when driven on off-road terrain.
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