The Perfect Checklist for Making Sure Your Hired 4WD Is Up to the Task

Four-wheel drive vehicles are designed in way that the power derived from the engine is distributed to all the four wheels at the same time. This is unlike front-wheel or rear-wheel drive machines, where the power concentrates on the rear or front wheels to propel the vehicle forward and backward. By distributing power to all the four wheels, a 4WD vehicle aims at giving you the best traction on the road, better off-road navigation and handling. Hiring one isn't a walk in the park because you have no idea how other users have treated that vehicle. This checklist will help you carry out a quick diagnosis when hiring a four-wheel drive beast:

Check for Noises Under the Car

Generally, a good service provider should let you test drive the vehicle before you actually pay for it. When carrying out that test, listen keenly for abnormal noises and vibrations coming from the lower section of the vehicle frame. These sounds and movements are often an indication of problems with the vehicle's differential. For example, a persistent ticking sound emanating from the lower, rear side means that the U-joint is worn out or in need of lubrication. If the vehicle runs smoothly with no vibrations and noises, then you are good to go.

Check for Functional Four-Wheel System

Four-wheel drive vehicles have a complex working mechanism. It's no surprise that you can engage the four-wheel gear shaft only to realise that it is unresponsive. Thankfully, a simple test carried out during the test drive can help you ensure that the four-wheel system is functional before paying for the vehicle. Slow down the vehicle gradually up to a point where it is moving at a low, consistent speed. Examine the tachometer to see whether the revolutions per minute (RPM) increase with the vehicle at that speed. This is an indication that the four-wheel drive gear shafts are functional.

Check for Off-road Response

You would be lucky to get to test the vehicle off-road. Good for you if you get the chance, but the most important thing is to know what to look for in case you go off-road. Off-road conditions set the right stage for your four-wheel beast to showcase its skills. Take the vehicle through rough terrains and muddy places if possible. An efficient four-wheel system should be able to rotate the front wheels slightly faster in these conditions, even though the vehicle's speed stays constant.