Car enthusiasts and driving veterans find it impressive how some vehicles can traverse different terrain. But have you ever wondered exactly how these cars conquer every trail, rock, or river? The secret often lies in a special badge that proves off-road excellence: the Jeep’s Trail Rated® mark.
Jeep introduced this badge to distinguish its most capable off-road vehicles. Vehicles that earn this distinction signify that a Jeep has passed grueling tests to handle the most challenging trails.
In line with this distinction, this blog explores the rigorous testing process for Jeep’s Trail Rated® vehicles, the requirements they must meet, and why the badge is a true symbol of capability and reliability for any adventure.
What It Means for a Vehicle to Be Trail-Rated
When a Jeep gains a Trail Rated® badge, it signifies exceptional off-road capability and durability. Here are some key advantages of having a trail-rated vehicle:
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Unmatched off-road performance
Trail rated® Jeeps’ design lets vehicles traverse challenging terrains, from rocky paths to muddy trails, with virtually no problem. You can confidently explore off-the-beaten-path destinations without worrying about your vehicle’s ability to cope.
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Enhanced durability
Jeep rigorously tests its vehicles to ensure they can withstand harsh conditions. These trials result in robust and reliable rides that endure rugged environments, making them an excellent investment for frequent off-road ventures.
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Advanced engineering
Trail rated® Jeeps have advanced features such as superior traction, water-fording capability, improved ground clearance, and exceptional maneuverability. These enhancements improve off-road performance and contribute to overall driving safety and comfort.
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Resale value
A Jeep Trail Rated® badge can boost your vehicle’s resale value. Prospective buyers recognize the badge as a mark of quality and capability, making jeeps more appealing in the used automobile market.
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Peace of mind
If you’re a car enthusiast or looking to sell your vehicle that has passed the stringent tests to another aficionado, you feel confident in its performance and reliability. You are certain it can navigate remote or challenging terrains.
5 Testing Requirements to Earn a Trail-Rated® Badge
Earning the Trail-Rated® badge isn’t a walk in the park (or, more accurately, a stroll down a paved road). Your vehicle must endure five grueling tests below to push its limits and assess its off-road prowess.
1. Traction
Not all roads and paths are the same. Some are rugged, slippery, or uneven, highlighting the importance of traction for vehicles to navigate safely and effectively.
- Testing focus
This test focuses on a vehicle’s ability to grip various surfaces—snow, mud, gravel, rocks, etc. It ensures the vehicle can move forward even in slippery or unstable conditions.
- Requirement
The vehicle must maintain control and forward momentum on different grades, surfaces, and conditions to prove its traction capabilities and overall driving power.
2. Ground clearance
Ground clearance prevents a vehicle’s underside from getting damaged when driving over obstacles. While average cars might need roadside assistance after hitting debris, trail-rated jeeps can withstand that impact to climb and crawl over most barriers safely.
- Testing focus
This trial measures the height of a vehicle’s underbody from the ground. It’s crucial to prevent damage from rocks, branches, and other obstacles on off-road trails.
- Requirement
The vehicle must undergo testing from three angles—approach, breakover, and departure—to prove its comprehensive off-road capability. It must have sufficient ground clearance to navigate obstacles without scraping or getting stuck.
3. Maneuverability
Good maneuverability allows you to navigate tight spaces, avoid obstacles, and maintain control in unexpected situations.
- Testing focus
The trail rating’s maneuverability test assesses how well a vehicle can navigate tight spaces and around obstacles. It includes evaluating the turning radius, steering response, and overall agility.
- Requirement
The vehicle’s optimized wheelbases, four-wheel drive, and rear-wheel steering must prove excellent maneuverability in controlled environments with narrow paths, sharp turns, and various obstacles. These situations mimic real-world off-road scenarios.
4. Articulation
A Jeep efficiently driving on a rocky trail is all due to articulation. This quality allows wheels to move independently and stay in contact with the ground, helping you navigate the rough terrain smoothly and safely.
- Testing focus
This trial examines the flexibility of a vehicle’s suspension system. Good articulation ensures that all the tires are stable even when one or more of them are off the ground, providing stability and traction on uneven terrain.
- Requirement
The vehicle must maintain good overall tire contact on uneven surfaces and during extreme suspension flex scenarios like driving over rocky terrains and obstacles.
5. Water fording
When off-roading, you’ll likely encounter shallow waters. Water fording is a vehicle’s ability to drive through water safely. Vehicles must be capable of handling water crossings and staying safe and functional in wet conditions.
- Testing focus
The trail rating’s water fording test evaluates a vehicle’s ability to navigate water without compromising performance or safety. It includes checking the seals, air intake, and electrical systems.
- Requirement
The Jeep’s body openings and electrical connections require a tight seal for protection, with higher air intake to prevent damage when driving through deep puddles, streams, and creeks. Likewise, your vehicles must successfully ford through water up to a specific depth without stalling, leaking, or damaging critical components.
Conquer Any Terrain with a Trail-Ready Beast
Jeep’s Trail rated badges aren’t just a cool emblem; they symbolize a vehicle’s durability and adaptability. Understanding the rigorous tests that go into earning this badge can help you choose one that can truly handle anything the off-road throws your way.
Remember, it’s about having the right gear and vehicle for adventure. That’s where Triangle Tires fits right in. Our wide range of quality tires can conquer challenging off-road adventures and offer reliable options for everyday driving.
Browse our catalog or contact us today for your tire needs.
