This is one of the most common questions asked by our customers when upgrading their 4×4 vehicle. And the answer is often the same. 

If you plan on going off-road, you will eventually get bogged. It’s not so much a matter of if, but when, regardless if you’re on mud, rocks, sand or even snow, it’s inevitable. 

It all comes down to how prepared you are for this moment. A winch is one upgrade that most 4×4 owners generally pass up on. Purely for the fact that it does not provide any sort of immediate performance boost that you would typically get from a new suspension kit or tyre upgrade. 

However, what it does give you is peace of mind in knowing should you ever get into a situation where you’ll need it, it’s going to make your off-road adventure go a whole lot smoother. Unfortunately, those who are new 4×4 owners will generally go and test out their new ride on off-road terrain, often forgoing any sort of recovery gear. 

And it’s in this scenario do they realise just how important it is to have a winch. 

Although winches have been around for yonks, assisting people move large and heavy objects that would otherwise be impossible to move. And since the introduction of electric 4×4 winches, they have become an indispensable accessory that every 4×4 vehicle owner should have.

Two questions to determine if you need a winch

If there’s one thing my parents taught me right it’s always better to be safe than sorry. And let’s be honest, would you rather have it and not need it, or need it and not have it? You might not use it as much as your roof rack, but when you’re bogged 50kms out from the nearest town, it’s a deadset lifesaver. 

1. Do you plan on going off-road with your vehicle?
2. Are you traveling solo? (there won’t be another 4WD with you)

If you answered no to the first question and your 4×4 is primarily used on standard roads then the likelihood of you needing a winch is almost zero.

If you answered yes to both questions, then you should definitely consider purchasing and installing a winch on your vehicle. Whether you’re traveling off-road, testing your skills on muddy tracks, or finding the best beach fishing spot, remember it’s not a matter of if you’ll get stuck, it’s when.  

If you answered yes to question 1, but no to question 2, then it’s wise to ensure whoever you’re traveling with has a winch, and at the very least, you have a decent recovery kit. That way, if either of you get into a sticky situation, you can help each other out using both a recovery kit and a winch. 

Need help choosing a winch that’s best for your 4×4 vehicle?

Installing a winch on your 4×4 may not provide any immediate benefits, but it does give you peace of mind and assurance that you will be able to get out of almost any sticky situation on your own. Self-recovery will become much easier, especially if you’re traveling to remote locations searching for the best camping grounds, as you won’t have to wait for help to arrive and recover your 4WD. 

Speak to a friendly expert at Coastals