How to Off-Road in a Jeep Compass

If you're looking to take your Jeep Compass off the beaten path, the Trailhawk edition is definitely the way to go. It's basically built for adventure, earning that coveted "Trail Rated" badge after Jeep put it through some serious off-road testing. The Trailhawk comes with Jeep's Active Drive Low 4x4 system, which is a game-changer when you're crawling over rocks or climbing steep hills - that 20:1 crawl ratio really makes a difference. Plus, they've given it extra ground clearance so you can clear obstacles without scraping the bottom. The off-road tuned suspension and skid plates are like a suit of armor, protecting the undercarriage while you explore. And those Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires? They're the perfect mix of comfortable on the road and grippy when you're off it. Oh, and let's not forget those red tow hooks and the cool black hood decal - it just looks ready for anything. Basically, the Compass Trailhawk is the most capable off-road version of the Compass, hands down.

When it comes to four-wheel drive, the Jeep Compass gives you a couple of choices depending on how adventurous you're feeling. Most Compass models come with Jeep Active Drive, which is a really handy system for everyday driving. 1 It's a full-time 4x4 system, meaning it's always working in the background, automatically kicking in when you need extra traction - like in rain or snow. 2 It's super smooth. You probably won't even notice it working, but it'll definitely keep you more stable. Often, this system is paired with Selec-Terrain Traction Control, which lets you dial in different modes (like Snow, Sand, or Mud) to optimize the vehicle's performance for various surfaces. Now, if you're planning on hitting some serious trails, you'll want the Compass Trailhawk. It's got Jeep Active Drive Low, which takes everything a step further. It adds a 20:1 crawl ratio and low range, which is a game-changer when you're crawling over rocks or climbing steep hills. This system also usually includes Hill-descent Control, which helps you smoothly descend steep inclines without having to ride the brakes. And just like the regular Active Drive, the Trailhawk's system often comes with Selec-Terrain but usually adds a Rock mode for tackling really tough terrain. 6 That's the system that earns the Trailhawk its "Trail Rated" badge - it's built for the rough stuff. So, whether you want some extra confidence in bad weather or you're ready to explore the backwoods, the Compass has a 4x4 system to match, often with some helpful features to go along with it. 

While the Compass is surprisingly capable right out of the gate, you can definitely add some things to make it even better. Rock sliders are a great idea - they'll protect the underside of your doors from getting scraped up on rocks, plus they can double as a step. Extra skid plates are also always a good investment, especially if you plan on tackling some rough stuff. Think of them as armor for the important essentials underneath your Compass. A small lift kit can give you a little extra ground clearance, which is helpful for clearing bigger obstacles and lets you run bigger tires. Speaking of tires, swapping out the stock ones for more aggressive all-terrain or mud-terrain tires can make a huge difference in how much grip you have off-road. If you're going on longer trips, a roof rack is handy for hauling extra gear. And if you plan on doing any night driving on trails, some additional lights, like a light bar, will be your best friend. For the truly adventurous, a winch is a must-have - it can get you out of some sticky situations. Don't forget the basic recovery gear like straps, shackles, and a shovel - knowing how to use them is just as important as having them! Just remember to do your homework before buying anything, make sure it fits your Compass, and if you're uncomfortable installing it yourself, you can get a professional to do it.

How does the Jeep Compass handle when you leave the pavement behind? Pretty well, actually, though it's good to remember it's a compact SUV, not a rock-crawling monster. Gravel and dirt roads are no problem - the 4x4 system keeps you planted, and the suspension does a decent job smoothing the bumps. Mud can be a little trickier, but with the right tires (something a bit more aggressive than the stock ones), you can usually get through moderate mud. Watch out for the thick, deep stuff, as ground clearance might become an issue. Sand is similar - airing down the tires helps, and Selec-Terrain's Sand mode can be useful, but super soft sand can be harsh. Snow? The Compass handles it like a champ, especially with proper winter tires. Rocks are where the Trailhawk shines. With its extra ground clearance, skid plates, and active Drive Low 4x4 system, it can tackle some decent rocky trails. Just remember, extreme rock crawling is best left to more specialized vehicles. Hills are generally no problem, and features like Hill-start Assist and Hill-descent Control can be a big help. The bottom line is that the Compass is surprisingly capable of what it is, but always be sure to check out the terrain before you try it and know your vehicle's limits.

Let's talk about high range and low range in your Jeep Compass - it's a pretty important concept for off-roading. Think of it like the gears on a bicycle. High range (4H) is like being in a higher gear. You can go faster, but it's harder to pedal uphill. In your Compass, 4H is great when you need extra grip on snowy or rainy roads or even on easier trails where you still want to keep moving at a decent pace. It gives you better traction, but it's not for the gnarly stuff. Low range (4L) is like shifting to a super low gear on your bike. It's way easier to pedal uphill, but you're not going to be setting any speed records. 4L gives you maximum power and control at slow speeds in your Compass. This is what you want for the rugged trails: steep climbs, rocky sections, deep mud - anything where you need to crawl and have a lot of control. It multiplies your engine's power so you can ease over obstacles without stressing the engine or transmission. Just remember, you never want to use 4L on pavement or at higher speeds; it's only for low-speed, off-road situations. Always check your owner's manual, too, because it'll tell you exactly how and when to switch between 4H and 4L in your Compass.

From tackling trails in the capable Trailhawk to confidently navigating everyday roads, the Compass offers a versatile driving experience.  Ready to experience the thrill of off-roading or just want to explore the latest Compass models?  Come visit us here at Gillman Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram - we'd be happy to answer any questions you have and get you behind the wheel for a test drive.  Fill out the form below to get started!