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There’s a reason why utes and 4WDs are at the top of the list when it comes to buying a new car. They’re rugged, functional, have decent performance and heaps of space, and don’t look out of place in the CBD, let alone in the bush. Of course, you can go for a range of vehicles, and spend upwards of a decent two-bedroom flat for a high-end luxury model, but the basics are all there. Torquey, reliable and thrifty engines, a chassis, drivetrain and suspension that won’t budge in even the most difficult of terrains, and storage to keep anybody happy. All this is fine, but can you go better without breaking the bank?
Definitely. Aftermarket accessories for 4WDs are an affordable way to up the functionality and performance of your vehicle, while also adding in the looks department, allowing you to stand out in the crowd.
Accessories to Go For
Performance
Most 4WDs are mid-range diesels with lots of pulling power, and performance or luxury-oriented petrol station wagons for hauling family royalty around town. Older cars will have non-turbo diesels or lacklustre petrols with smaller displacement that are awkward at best in picking up speed. Newer cars are fitted with turbos or a few extra cylinders. To add better throttle response a cheap buy is a throttle controller. This will reduce the time it takes for the throttle to kick in, something that you will definitely feel at the wheel. You’ll be quicker off the lights, easily maintain cruising speed and have more traction in the sand since the throttle can be dialled up or down to your liking.
For turbos, there’s also the benefit of reduced turbo lag. A slightly more costly upgrade is that to the exhaust system, Here you can add aftermarket pipes that can free up a few more horses and add some rumble to the exhaust note. A better exhaust is not just for show, the benefit of lower stress and heat levels in the engine also pays off. Similarly, improved air intakes, like snorkels, provide for a better fuel and air mix, meaning more speed.
Maintenance
If you regularly drive through river-crossings or streams, a differential breather will keep oil levels and temperatures here at optimal working levels. Exposure to water for long periods can lead to costly damage in the seals, gears and the diff. To prevent oil and other contaminants from sticking to the intake manifold, use an oil catch can. They’re cheap offerings like basic oil and air filters that take out the guesswork of any repair costs if not maintained. To monitor oil, fuel and water temperatures and pressure, separate gauges can be fitted in or along the dash.
Vehicle Protection
If you just splurged your savings on a new car, you want to keep it as new for longer. Here you have different types of covers to protect both the exterior paintwork and the interior. You can find protective covers for all sorts of vehicle types, from single cabs to long station wagons, so there’s no damage from unpredictable weather, like hail and searing temperatures. For the interior, get a set of cheap seat covers to maintain the condition of new seats, or a dash cover to keep rubber linings and leather comfortable to the touch. If your car gets nicked, then a GPS tracker will help you find it.
Safety and Convenience
Off-road adventures require some front and rear protection. Stock bumpers are fine for city streets, but when heading out, have a decent bull bar and rear bar to avoid any damage from mishaps or collisions with wildlife. Recovery gear, like straps and winches, will get you out of difficult situations. Jacks and shovels are good if you get bogged down. When towing a trailer, towing brake controllers allow you to monitor and control the trailer brakes. if you’re offroading for longer, invest in a pair of cheap fog lights.
As for storage, you can spend a few dollars for seat pockets and storage cases and boxes that fit along the seats or in the centre console and door bins. For the exterior, look for roof racks in various sizes, good for carrying any tools to the workplace or large sporting and camping goods like bikes, canoes, and fitted awnings. When camping, battery packs and battery boxes give you safe and reliable off-grid power for portable fridges and lighting. Fridge sliders are good for the safe transport of portable fridges.
Buying 4WD accessories
4×4 accessories can cost a little as a coffee or as much as a kitchen. Interior accessories are generally the cheapest, due to the small size and materials. Protective, maintenance and safety gear though costly end up saving you money in the long run. You won’t need costly repairs and can put a few more dollars in your pocket when it’s time to sell. As for new cars, matching grilles, bull and rear bars, along with roof racks or tonneau covers for utes will up your street cred. No wonder utes are selling like cupcakes among inner-city buyers. It’s the style, functionality, and ruggedness that these accessories emphasise. Buy compatible 4WD accessories for your vehicle from the nearest 4WD retailer or visit your dealership.