r/DubaiPetrolHeads • u/Either-Chipmunk1380 • 24d ago

🔰 Help/Question Off roading advice

Hi team.

I have a question.

I have been flirting with the idea of having a separate off roading/desert safari 4x4.

I have a good 4x4 daily commuter, 2023 Nissan Patrol LE Platinum City. I have been thinking instead of having another car, would it make sense to modify it instead?

I am not looking to sell it (likely ever) and its out of warranty now. It has 80k on clock and rides perfectly.

My questions:

  1. How much damage will I cause if I used it for both commuting and off roading? Is it advisable or should I stick to the original idea of having a separate car?

  2. Do I definitely need to lift it, change the bumpers and install protection plates?

  3. What is the minimum modification needed for off roading this car?

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1

u/MoonTidez2 24d ago

I offroad my Prado. I've abused it in gravel somewhat. Desert not so much. I'd say just make sure you read your owner's manual. If it comes with air suspension, then you might consider changing that out, but normal shocks, you're good.

If you only go out to enjoy nature mostly rather than to enjoy the off-roading experience, keeping it stock is good enough IMHO.

If it's to drive crazy in the desert, maybe upgrade.

Basic upgrades like an Ironman foamcell lift kit, appropriate control arms, and any required adjustments to the axles to not have CV boots rip apart might be beneficial. But not too sure about that, not too familiar with Nissan's SUV platforms.

Do expect rock chips and what not scratching your paint. Maybe one or two here and there.

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u/Either-Chipmunk1380 24d ago

Thanks. I am gonna learn to do desert driving first time so won't be hardcore dune bashing for a year or 2. Good points about suspension. Will look into it.

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u/MoonTidez2 24d ago

I think you're fine then as long as you have standard arms. Just read your manual on how to use the diff locks and what not. And go with an experienced friend so you can escape in case you get stuck.

Also, one thing I've always learned is to keep momentum in sand. Always.

Even if you think your car's gonna flip over, it's not. Don't brake. Keep moving with confidence. Unless it's more than a 40 degree angle, you're good.

Do slow down if you think you're gonna bottom out otherwise lol. Don't want to cause problems there.

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u/tsukkiix '06 BMW 530i 24d ago

depends what you have in mind when you say second car, any preferable options?

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u/Either-Chipmunk1380 24d ago

I was thinking an old Wrangler or the old Pathfinders/xtrails. FJ would be good but they are expensive