4X4ing is a game of experience. It doesn’t matter how much research you do, how well-equipped your rig is, or how confident you feel, mistakes happen. And while making a mistake on a remote track might be part of the learning curve, it can also be downright dangerous. Over the years, I’ve come across a fair share of blunders. Some of them minor, others that could have ended in serious injury. So, I’ve rounded up the most common off-road mistakes I’ve seen, hoping that you can avoid them and make your time on the tracks a whole lot safer.
1. Underestimating Terrain Difficulty
One of the biggest mistakes I’ve seen—especially from newer drivers—is underestimating how tough the terrain can be. A patch of sand might look like a breeze from a distance, but once you're halfway through and bogged, it’s a different story. And rocks that seem navigable? Well, they can turn into axle-busters before you know what’s hit you. Before you tackle any track, make sure you have a clear understanding of the difficulty level and have scouted it if possible. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution. I’ve watched too many overconfident drivers end up with their rigs stranded or damaged because they didn’t respect the terrain.
2. Not Airing Down Tyres
This is a classic rookie mistake that I see far too often. People think they can get away without airing down because the track looks alright, doesn’t go for long, or maybe just because they’ve never been properly stuck before. Airing down increases the surface area of your tyres not only giving you more grip and less pressure on the ground, but also allowing your tyres to more easily deform over sharp obstacles. With a little momentum you may be able to bounce your rig up that step at road pressures, but dropping down even to 20psi will give you more control, cause less track damage, and allow your tyres to come out with less damage too.
3. Not Knowing How to Use Recovery Gear
It’s all well and good to have a shiny new recovery kit stashed away in your rig, but if you don’t know how to use it, it’sas good as dead weight. I’ve seen people pull out snatch straps, winches, and shackles without the faintest idea of what goes where or how it all works. Worse, I’ve seen unsafe recoveries that could have resulted in serious injury. Before you head out, make sure you’ve practiced using your gear. Learn how to do a proper recovery, and most importantly, always think safety first. A strap or winch under load can turn into a deadly weapon if something goes wrong. Old-styled mechanical hi-lift jacks can be particularly problematic. I’ve seen front teeth knocked out by the lever whilst under load. Keep your noggin well clear!
4. Forgetting to Check the Depth of Water Crossings
There’s nothing more tempting than powering through a water crossing, a bow wave riding high above your bonnet. But that’s also one of the quickest ways to drown your rig, or worse, yourself. I’ve seen people blindly charge into crossings only to have their engine stall or their vehicle swept away by a stronger-than-expected current. The lesson here is simple: always walk the crossing first if it’s safe to do so. Check the depth, the strength of the current, and what the bottom’s made of. It’s a lot easier to get yourself out of a sticky situation if you know what you’re getting into ahead of time.
camping near a freshwater river crossing in australia
5. Over-packing or Under-packing Gear
Packing for a trip can be tricky. You don’t want to leave behind anything crucial, but you also don’t want to overload your 4X4. Both can be dangerous. I’ve seen people with rigs so loaded down with unnecessary gear that even with upgraded suspension they’re still dragging their backside making for unpredictable handling in the bush. On the other hand, I’ve also seen people head into remote areas without basic essentials like a first aid kit or enough food and water. The key is to pack smart. Prioritise the essentials, recovery gear, food, water, first aid, and spare parts. And for the love of mud, leave the non-essentials at home!
6. Ignoring Tyre Condition
Tyres are your first point of contact with the ground, and if they’re in bad shape, you’re in for a rough time. I’ve come across people driving on old, worn-out tyres that are just waiting to blow, especially in rocky terrain. A sudden tyre failure at speed can lead to a serious accident. Before you head off-road, check your tyres. Look for signs of wear, and make sure they’re suitable for the terrain. And don’t forget to check your spare as well! Trust me, you don’t want to be caught without a backup in the middle of nowhere.
punctured tyre damaged off road incorrect tyre pressures
7. Driving Too Fast
It’s easy to get carried away on a fun track, but speed is one of the biggest killers when off-roading. I’ve seen people fly over crests or around blind corners, only to come face-to-face with a washout, a downed tree, or another vehicle. 4X4ing is all about control, not speed. Keep it slow and steady, and always anticipate what might be around the next bend. Your reaction time is everything when the unexpected pops up and driving too fast will only limit your ability to react safely.
8. Neglecting to Use Low Range When Necessary
Low range is your best friend when the going gets tough. Whether it’s crawling up a steep hill or inching over large rocks, low range gives you the control and torque you need to get through challenging sections safely. But you wouldn’t believe how many people try to tackle tough terrain without engaging low range, thinking they can just power through in high. All that does is put unnecessary strain on your 4X4 and increase your chances of getting stuck. I’ve learned that when in doubt, go low. It’s better to be slow and in control than fast and out of it.
9. Going Out Alone Without Backup Plans
Solo adventures can be exhilarating, but they’re also risky. I’ve encountered solo drivers who have gotten themselves into sticky situations in proper remote country. Whether it’s a mechanical failure, an injury, or simply getting bogged, having a backup plan is essential. Always let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back and carry a reliable communication device like a satellite phone. Even if you’re travelling with others, don’t just rely on them, make sure you have your own plan if things go sideways.
10. Forgetting to Check Weather Conditions
Weather can change the game entirely when you’re off-road, and I’ve seen people caught off guard more times than I can count. Rain can turn a passable track into a boggy mess, and a dry riverbed can become a raging torrent in minutes. Before you head out, check the forecast and be prepared to change your plans if the weather turns bad. I’ve learned the hard way that being stubborn about sticking to a route, regardless of weather, can lead to disaster. Sometimes, the best decision is to turn around and try again another day.
What I’ve Learned...
4X4ing is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the great outdoors, but it also comes with its fair share of risks. The key to staying safe is to learn from your mistakes, and from the mistakes of others. Pay attention to the terrain, your 4X4, and the conditions around you. Know your limits, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or turn back if things start to get dicey. Above all, remember that the tracks will always be there, but your safety should be your number one priority. Keep the shiny side up!
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