What tyre pressure to have when heading Offroad?

Author: Christian Simms  Date Posted:30 June 2023 

When it comes to off-roading in your 4WD vehicle, the correct tyre pressure is essential for safe and effective driving on different terrains. When it comes to off-roading in your 4WD vehicle, the correct tyre pressure is essential for safe and effective driving on different terrains.


What tyre pressure to have when heading Offroad?

When it comes to off-roading in your 4WD vehicle, the correct tyre pressure is essential for safe and effective driving on different terrains. The recommended tyre pressure for off-road driving differs from driving on paved roads. In this blog post, we will provide an in-depth analysis of what tyre pressures to use when 4wding on different terrains.

Firstly, let's delve into the importance of using the right tyre pressure for any off-road adventure. The right tyre pressure can significantly impact your vehicle's traction, stability, and control. An incorrect tyre pressure can lead to increased tyre wear, decreased fuel economy, and a higher risk of punctures.

When driving on sand dunes, reducing tyre pressure is necessary to provide a larger tyre footprint, which improves traction and floatation. The recommended tyre pressure for sand driving ranges from 15-20 psi, depending on tyre size and vehicle weight. Remember to re-inflate the tyres to the road pressure once you leave the sand area.

Mud driving is very different from sand driving. The challenge is to maintain forward momentum with a lack of traction. A lower tyre pressure is recommended to enable the tyre to flex and create a larger contact patch. A tyre pressure of 20 psi or lower is ideal for mud driving. It is best to try different pressures to ascertain the optimum pressure required.

On rocky terrain, it is best to decrease your tyre pressure to protect your tyres from punctures and sidewall damage. A tyre pressure of 15- 0 psi is recommended for rocky terrain to avoid rim and bead damage. The middle pressure also allows the tyre to better maintain its shape over sharp edges, providing better stability

Finally, when driving on gravel or corrugated dirt roads, it is best to have a higher tyre pressure of around 32-35 psi. This pressure ensures the best drive on rough terrain and reduces the potential for punctures. Remember to adjust your tyre pressure based on the load and the specific conditions.


In conclusion, the correct tyre pressure is essential for 4wding and off-road driving on different terrains. Choose your tyre pressure depending on the conditions and the terrain you drive on to ensure the best possible safety and performance from your vehicle. Be sure to check your tyre pressure regularly, as it affects both performance and safety. Happy 4wding!


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