Jeep Off Roading FAQs

Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system is your personal off-roading co-pilot! It lets you choose from different settings that fine-tune your Jeep for specific terrains, like sand, snow, or rocks. By adjusting throttle control, transmission, and traction control, Selec-Terrain gives you ultimate stability on any adventure. There’s even an AUTO mode that cleverly adapts to your conditions. Want more ground clearance for rocky trails? Look no further than the Quadra-Lift® Air Suspension. This system can raise your Jeep on demand, letting you conquer challenging terrain with ease. You can even adjust the height manually or let Selec-Terrain do it for you – both systems work while you’re parked or cruising. So, ditch the guesswork and take control of your off-road experience with Jeep’s innovative technology.

When venturing off-road, understanding your Jeep’s 4×4 system is critical. Low-range 4×4 is your secret weapon for tricky situations. It uses all four wheels and a super low gear ratio, allowing you to crawl over rocks or steep inclines with more power. But here’s the catch: low-range trades speed for strength. Don’t go faster than 25 mph; only engage it when rolling at a walking pace (2-3 mph). Think of it as your Jeep’s low-and-slow mode for maximum torque. Remember, this isn’t for everyday driving on pavement – it can damage your Jeep. On the other hand, a high-range 4×4 is for when you need more grip than two-wheel drive but still want to travel at regular speeds. Think snow, ice, or light off-road trails like gravel, mud, or sand. Unlike low-range, high-range can be used for extended periods on loose surfaces. Avoid using it on dry pavement, which can wear down your tires and hurt your drivetrain. In full-time 4×4 systems, high-range is even suitable for normal road conditions.  Remember to adjust your speed to the road conditions, no matter which 4×4 mode you’re in.

Gearing up for your off-road adventure starts with a check-up for your Jeep: fluids, hoses, and tires must all be in tip-top shape. Don’t go it alone, especially in new territory, and pack a first-aid kit, extra water, and recovery gear. Let someone know your plans, too! Once on the trail, engage 4WD when you need that extra traction, and get in the habit of scanning the path ahead, not just what’s right in front of your wheels. Jeeps are built tough for off-roading, and their low-range gearing will conquer most obstacles at a slow and steady pace. Snow and mud demand your 4WD system, and for even more control, especially downhill or in heavy snow, use a lower gear. Remember, don’t spin your wheels when traction fades – you’ll get stuck deeper. Maintain momentum for a better grip. Conquering sand requires slightly deflated tires and maintaining forward progress in high-range 4WD. Wider turns are your friend here. Hills require a straight up or down approach, and always check what’s on the other side before cresting. If you stall going uphill, back down slowly in a straight line. Downhill, use your lowest gear and engine compression to control your speed, not just the brakes. Rock crawling is all about slow and steady – use low gear and low-range 4WD and let your Jeep crawl over obstacles. Don’t straddle rocks; maneuver your tires on top and crawl over them slowly. A little scraping is normal – your Jeep’s skid plates and rock rails are built for that. Reduce your tire pressure slightly for better traction over rocks, and remember, the slower you go, the better. Be aware of other vehicles and yield the right of way uphill. If you stop, try to pull off the trail. Respect the environment by staying on designated trails, packing out all your trash, and even picking up garbage left by others. If an area looks too fragile, choose another route to preserve the beauty of the outdoors. Happy Jeeping!

Yes, it can! Jeep 4xe hybrid SUVs combine legendary Jeep off-road capability with the added benefit of hybrid power. The Wrangler 4xe, the most capable Wrangler ever, unleashes instant torque and thrilling horsepower to get you far off the beaten path. The Grand Cherokee 4xe boasts equally impressive capability thanks to its advanced 4×4 systems. Enjoy the peace and quiet of electric mode while exploring, and recharge at convenient Jeep solar chargers located at select Badge of Honor trailheads. Just remember to top off your charge before your adventure!

No matter what kind of off-road adventure you have in mind, there’s a perfect Jeep out there waiting to conquer it with you. From the legendary rock-climbing prowess of the Wrangler to the luxurious off-road capability of the Grand Cherokee, Jeep has a model built to handle any terrain you can throw at it. And the best way to experience that capability firsthand is to get behind the wheel. Here at Humes Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, we have a vast selection of Jeep off-road models ready for you to test drive. Schedule your test drive today using the form below, and get ready to discover the thrill of off-roading in a Jeep!