Our 4x4 Tips

The right BFGoodrich tyre for every 4x4 requirement.

To learn more about the tyre best suited to your needs, explore our 4x4 range or use our tyre selector.

BFGoodrich strongly recommends fitting identical tyres on four-wheel-drive vehicles (same brand, size, range, load and speed ratings) with the same level of wear, regardless of the 4WD system. However, there may be cases where the vehicle manufacturer specifies different tyre sizes for the front and rear. All manufacturer recommendations must be followed.

Differences in rolling circumference between front and rear tyres can seriously damage drivetrain components: for example, the driveshaft in a 2WD vehicle with selectable 4WD, or the central differential in a permanent or part-time 4WD vehicle.

4x4 tyres can be chosen based on intended use and terrain type.

On-road tyres: For all-wheel-drive road vehicles

• Responsive and precise in corners and on straight roads

• Suitable for city, road, and highway use

Mixed tyres: For SUV-type 4x4s

• Distinctive tread design with sharp edges

• Reinforced structure and sidewalls

• Versatile: performs on-road and off-road

Off-road tyres: For primarily off-road use

• Wide tread blocks

• High void ratio (50%)

• Deep tread depth: 13 to 17 mm

• Reinforced structure and sidewalls

• Reliable off-road performance

What does this mean?

Some 4x4 owners choose to fit their vehicles with different tyres (types and sizes), for example to change the vehicle’s use, improve its performance, or simply alter its overall appearance.

Current regulations apply to all vehicles, including 4x4s, and dimensional modifications must always be carried out according to strict rules. When changing the vehicle’s original equipment, it is essential to ensure that the new components comply with legal requirements, the vehicle’s technical limits, intended usage, and manufacturer recommendations. Consult a specialist for guidance.

Precautions to take when modifying equipment

BFGoodrich strongly recommends following these important guidelines before changing the tyre size on your vehicle:

• If you plan to fit tyres of a new size, you must always respect the dimensions specified by the vehicle manufacturer and listed on the registration certificate. Load and speed ratings must be the same as or higher than those of the original tyre.

• If you wish to fit a type of tyre not originally provided or offered as an option by the manufacturer, you must request specific authorisation from the vehicle manufacturer, including the chassis number or full type designation, and have the vehicle registration certificate updated in accordance with current regulations. This ensures that the tyres are compatible with fixed and moving parts of the axles and suspension.

• Make sure the new tyres do not touch any mechanical components or bodywork, and that they do not protrude beyond the vehicle.

• For winter tyres or tyres marked “M+S,” Directive 92/23/EEC and the Ministry of Transport circulars on equivalent markings specify that, in winter, the speed rating may be lower than the original tyres, provided it is at least category Q (160 km/h). If the maximum permitted speed is lower, a label indicating this must be placed inside the vehicle in a clearly visible location for the driver.

It is highly recommended to fit identical tyres on four-wheel-drive vehicles (same size, range, type of use, and load and speed ratings) with the same level of wear, regardless of the 4WD system. However, in some cases, the manufacturer may specify different tyre sizes for the front and rear to avoid mechanical issues or drivetrain damage and to ensure optimal performance.

Mud

Before crossing a muddy area, stop to:

• take the time to study the terrain and determine your route;

• remove any pieces of wood or debris;

• fit recovery straps at the front and rear;

• lower tyre pressure to 1.5 bar if necessary.

When crossing the mud:

• engage the differential lock;

• select 2nd or 3rd low gear;

• maintain steady acceleration;

• if the vehicle gets stuck up to the axle and stops moving, reverse to regain traction.

Once you’re through the mud:

• clean the tyres and wheels;

• check the tyres at normal pressure.

Fording

Before crossing a ford, stop to:

• probe the ford to identify holes, stones, logs, etc.;

• plan your route and exit point;

• check the vehicle’s watertightness;

• deflate the tyres to 1.5 bar.

When crossing the ford:

• enter the water slowly at a steady speed;

• do not restart the engine if it stalls mid-ford. Restarting could draw water into the exhaust or air intake. It is safer to be towed with the engine off.

After crossing the ford:

• reinflate the tyres to normal pressure;

• check under the vehicle to remove grass and branches.

Crossing a Bridge

• study the terrain;

• engage the differential locks.

• on flat or uphill terrain, use 2nd low gear;

• on a descent, use 1st low gear and brake gently without locking the wheels;

• if progress stops, reverse, then try again along a different line.

Driving on Slopes

Climbing a slope:

• Engage the differential locks;

• Approach the slope in 1st or 2nd low gear;

• Begin the ascent;

• If progress stops, brake firmly to bring the engine to a halt, depress the clutch, and select reverse;

• Restart the engine in gear and use engine braking to descend.

Descending a slope:

• Approach the slope in 1st low gear;

• Lock the central differential;

• Never shift into neutral;

• Use engine braking to control the descent;

• On very steep slopes, brake to support engine braking, moving slowly centimetre by centimetre;

• If the vehicle starts to slide, a small touch of the accelerator can help regain traction.

Negotiating a step:

• For an uphill step under 50 cm, take it head-on; for higher steps, approach at a 45° angle;

• For a downhill step, approach head-on;

• Engage 1st low gear;

• Bring the front wheels to the step and stop;

• Press the accelerator to get the front wheels over the step;

• Bring the rear wheels to the step and stop;

• Press the accelerator to get the rear wheels over;

• For a downhill step, move centimetre by centimetre while controlling the descent with the brakes.

  
  Descending a Slope

First, stop to:

• assess the slope by identifying obstacles that could increase the incline and risk of tipping (do not rely solely on an inclinometer);

• plan your route and the exit area;

• deflate the tyres slightly, but not too much to avoid de-beading.

When descending the slope:

• avoid braking;

• never shift into neutral;

• do not lock the differential;

• approach any step in 1st low gear;

• move down the slope with the front wheels slightly turned uphill, then progress diagonally;

• if the vehicle drops or slips, turn the front wheels immediately downhill;

• if tipping begins, turn the front wheels downhill and initiate the descent carefully.

Then stop to:

• reinflate the tyres to the recommended pressure.

Crossing a Ditch or Embankment

• Position the vehicle at a 45° angle to the ditch;

• Ensure the exit area is large enough;

• Engage the differential locks;

• Cross the ditch gently pressing the accelerator in 1st low gear;

• If progress stops due to a breakover, reverse and try again along a different line;

• Once properly positioned and stabilized, press the accelerator;

• Release the accelerator as soon as the rear wheels clear the ditch or embankment.