So…you’ve just purchased your new Trail Rated® Jeep® vehicle and now you’re ready to take it out and see what it can do. But, you’ve never been off-roading before and you aren’t sure what your new vehicle can do or what kind of terrain it can handle. Here are some handy tips to get you started.
 
Trail Rated® is a high standard established by the Jeep® brand which determines your vehicle’s off-road capability. All Trail Rated vehicles are tested in five categories – traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation, and water fording. Although the Trail Rating makes your Jeep vehicle the most capable vehicle on the market, most people worry about and want to avoid damaging their vehicle. Damage usually only occurs when people off-road in an unsafe or reckless manner, or attempt an extreme obstacle normally meant for a modified vehicle. Although modifying your vehicle is a possibility, your Trail Rated Jeep vehicle is very capable right off the showroom floor and without expensive modifications.
 
Now let’s get on the trail! In four-wheel drive, your Trail Rated Jeep vehicle will easily tackle most types of terrain including sand, mud, ruts, rocks, water crossings, snow, and steep grades. Although all Trail Rated vehicles are very capable, check your owner’s manual before heading out, because capability may vary depending on the model. For example, the 2011 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon has features such as locking differentials and sway bar disconnects which may allow it to negotiate more extreme obstacles than other models.
 
Before you start, always evaluate and examine the trail or obstacle carefully before proceeding. Most of us will want to stay on easy to moderate trails or moderate terrain. These types of trails allow for off-roading enjoyment, while minimizing possible damage to your vehicle. An example would be a rutted, rocky road or a stream crossing where the water is less than 19 inches deep. These types of moderate trails have various obstacles which will present a satisfactory challenge to you and your Jeep vehicle.
 
Every off-roading trail and situation presents different challenges. Evaluate the trail carefully and determine a safe path of least resistance to both challenge your Jeep vehicle yet ensure an enjoyable and damage-free ride. See you on the trail!