Princeton Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Mar 6, 2018
A Jeep Wrangler in the mountains featured in a blog post about Jeep Princeton

While other vehicles are limited to the road, almost everything is fair game in a Jeep. You know these one-of-a-kind SUVs for their 4×4 capabilities and no-holds-barred approach to all-terrain driving. In fact, off-roading should be one of the New Year’s resolutions for your Jeep — if it isn’t already.

But what if you aren’t an off-roading expert yet?

Not everyone is. Off-roading is fun, and your Jeep makes it look easy — but it’s trickier than it appears. You’ve probably got questions. And that’s okay because we’ve got answers. Keep reading to learn more.

5 Common Off-roading Questions for Your Jeep

Question: How fast should I go?

Answer: When it comes to off-roading, slow and steady wins the race. How slow? Try about 1 to 5 mph. In low-range 4WD, it’s actually the low speed and low gearing that pulls you over whatever hurdles the terrain throws at you.

Question: When should I engage 4WD?

Answer: You don’t want to wait until it’s too late. Whenever you foresee the need for added traction, engage your 4WD. Once you get stuck, it’s nearly impossible to activate.

Question: How should I drive on trails?

Answer: First and foremost, you want to make sure the area you’ve chosen for your off-roading adventures is approved for such activity. Whether your tracks are left by a Compass or Wrangler, make sure they affect the area as minimally as possible. It’s possible to have fun without damaging the environment.

Question: Can my Jeep really tackle rocks and other obstacles?

Answer: Absolutely. Jeeps are designed with optimal ground clearance in mind. Once you turn the Selec-Terrain® dial on your Cherokee or Grand Cherokee to the Rock setting, you can crawl over rocks with ease. And we do mean crawl. The ideal speed for maneuvering over rocks doesn’t exceed 3 mph.

Question: How should I off-road in bad weather?

Answer: Whether it’s in snow or mud caused by rain, the key is maintaining forward momentum. Turn your Selec-Terrain® dial to the appropriate drive mode. Don’t over-rev or go into a lower gear than necessary. Doing so can cause you to lose traction and dig yourself into a hole.

Find the Ultimate Off-roading Machine in Princeton, IL

Of course, you can’t start off-roading if you don’t have a Jeep to begin with. Ready to discover the model you’ve always wanted? Princeton CDJR is here to help. Browse our inventory of new cars for sale, and come by for a test drive today.

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