4x4 Off-Road Driving Tips

Make sure you do the following routine maintenance:

1. Keep your tires properly inflated. The correct air pressure for your tires is specified by the vehicle manufacturer and can be found on the vehicle door edge, doorpost and glove box door or fuel door. It is also listed in the owner's manual. The number listed on the side of the tire is not the recommended air pressure for your tire — it is the maximum air pressure for the tire. You should check your tire's air pressure at least once a month.
2. To check the tire's tread depth, insert a penny heads-down into the tread. If you can see the top of Abraham Lincoln's head, your tires should be replaced.

Watch your speed.

Night driving can be a pleasure if you are aware of the special alertness demanded by low visibility. A few fundamentals:

1. Keep your headlights and tail lights on for the entire period between dusk and sunrise.
2. Put your headlights on low-beam when another vehicle is within 600 feet, or when driving behind another vehicle.
3. If your car breaks down at night, make sure other drivers can see your car and stop in time.
4. Turn on the hazard warning lights. Use flares if you have them.
5. If possible, pull off the road.
6. Avoid stopping just over a hill or just around a curve.
7. Take good notice of roadside reflectors, signs and any other helpful visual signals to stay on the road at night.

You need good vision and good hearing, and you must be alert and responsive.
Never drive when:

1. You have been drinking alcohol.
2. You have taken any prescription or over-the-counter medicine that can cause drowsiness.
3. You are under the influence of any drug that may affect your performance or perception.
4. You are very tired.
5. You are emotionally upset. These can all cause you to become less alert and less responsive.

You don't only have to prepare your car and tires in advance for winter, but also for other seasons. Fog, excessive rainfall, snow and ice, and glare all bring specific kinds of adjustments and maintenance. Look at our Winter Driving Tips and the Tire Maintenance section for more information. And consult your Goodyear Retailer, too!