Before Driving Off-Road

• Have all necessary maintenance and service work completed.

• Fuel the vehicle, fill fluid levels, and check inflation pressure in all tires, including the spare, if equipped.

• Read all the information about four-wheel-drive vehicles in this manual.

• Make sure all underbody shields, if equipped, are properly attached.

• Know the local laws that apply to off-road driving.

To gain more ground clearance if needed, it may be necessary to remove the front fascia lower air dam.

Notice: Operating the vehicle for extended periods without the front fascia lower air dam installed can cause improper air flow to the engine. Re-attach the front fascia air dam after off-road driving.

    See also:

    Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
    When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the scheduled maintenance intervals and replace it at the first oil change after each 80 000 km (50,000 mi) interval. S ...

    Passenger Compartment Air Filter
    The filter removes dust, pollen, and other airborne irritants from outside air that is pulled into the vehicle. The filter should be replaced as part of routine scheduled maintenance. See Maintenan ...

    Engine Cooling System Messages
    ENGINE HOT A/C (Air Conditioning) OFF This message displays when the engine coolant becomes hotter than the normal operating temperature. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge on page 5‑14. To ...