Autumn is a strange time of year. Sitting between Summer and Winter, it lacks the sunshine and sparkle of the former and the Xmas factor of the latter. But what it does represent is the ideal time to think about upgrading your 4×4. Because this is the time of year when the off-road tracks start to get really muddy and inviting.
So, without further waffling on, here are five of the upgrades you might want to consider adding to your rig this Autumn season.
1. Suspension upgrades
Improving your handling is always going to be top of the wish list for any 4×4 owner but at this time of year, with muddier terrain to navigate and the potential slippy roads of Winter just on the horizon, it’s the ideal time to upgrade your suspension. You might want to replace parts of your existing suspension, such as upgrading your shackles or springs. However, for our money, you’re always going to get more bang for your buck going with a full suspension kit replacement. After all, new springs on old shock absorbers are never going to give you the results you want. So why not replace both?
2. Winch plates
We don’t like to think about emergency recovery but the worst can happen, particularly in the later months of the year. So, why not invest in a winch plate to allow for the installation of a winch in case of emergency? If you’re worried about ruining the aesthetics of your vehicle then go for a hidden winch plate that can sit hidden behind your existing front bumper.
3. Snorkel kit
Not only do snorkels look the part but they also separate water from the engine intake and funnel cleaner air into your engine. With the Autumn weather comes potential flooding and standing water, which means lots of potential water damage if your vehicle is not properly equipped to handle it. Snorkel kits have been designed to fit the most common modern 4×4 vehicles and they are quick and simple to install. Your engine, meanwhile, will be eternally grateful.
4. Underbody protection
This one should go without saying but underbody protection should always be a consideration if you’re intending on taking your vehicle off-road at any time. But in the build-up to Winter, having some form of protection from the rocks and bumps that could be churned up and damage the underside of your 4×4 should be mandatory. There’s lots of incredibly valuable stuff under there that would be very expensive indeed to replace!
5. Side Protection
It’s not just the underside of your 4×4 that needs protection. ARB and N4 side protection rails and steps not only prevent damage from rocks or obstacles but make it slightly easier for you to access your cab. These rails or side protection steps offer important sill and side impact protection are easily added to most vehicle models.
