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Explore editorial
Written by
Darcie Sands
Published
February 26, 2025
Driving through mud is a thrilling part of offroad adventures, but it’s also one of the trickiest terrains to navigate. Without proper preparation and technique, your 4WD can easily get bogged, leaving you stuck in a sticky situation. To keep your journey smooth and stress-free, here’s a complete guide on how to avoid getting bogged when driving through mud.
Before you attempt to drive through mud, it’s essential to evaluate the situation. Mud can vary greatly in depth, consistency, and surface beneath.
Pro tip: If the mud appears too deep or risky, look for an alternative route.
Before tackling muddy terrain, make sure your 4WD is set up to handle the challenge.
Pro tip: Fit your vehicle with a snorkel if there’s a chance of encountering deep mud or water.
The path you take through the mud can make all the difference in maintaining traction and avoiding bogging.
Pro tip: Walk the line you plan to take to ensure it’s free of obstacles and manageable for your vehicle.
Momentum is key to driving through mud without getting stuck. Stopping or losing speed can cause your tyres to dig in, leaving you bogged.
Pro tip: If you feel your tyres losing traction, ease off the accelerator slightly to let them regain grip.
Sharp turns and aggressive steering can cause your tyres to lose traction, making it harder to navigate the mud.
Pro tip: Keep both hands on the wheel for maximum control, especially in slippery conditions.
If your vehicle starts to bog down, it’s often better to stop and assess the situation rather than spinning your tyres and making things worse.
Pro tip: Don’t panic—recovery is a normal part of offroad driving, and preparation is key.
Even experienced drivers can make errors in muddy conditions. Knowing what to avoid can save you time and frustration.
Pro tip: Practice driving in muddy conditions in a controlled environment to build confidence and skills.
Mud isn’t just challenging to drive through—it can also cause long-term damage if not cleaned off properly.
Pro tip: Use a mud spray or degreaser to make cleaning easier and more effective.
Driving through mud is one of the most exciting aspects of offroading, but it requires preparation, skill, and patience. By assessing conditions, preparing your vehicle, and using proper techniques, you can avoid bogging down and enjoy a smooth ride. Remember to always travel with recovery gear, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed. With the right mindset and preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle muddy tracks with confidence.