A Beginner's Guide to Ground Clearance
A pickup truck's ground clearance plays an important role in safety, ride comfort, and route accessibility. It's also possible to change the vehicle's ground clearance with alterations, such as getting a custom aluminum bumper.
Keep reading to learn more about vehicle ground clearance. For more information or to discuss custom aluminum bumper options, contact the experts at Truck Defender Bumpers. Our dealership is in Vale, South Dakota, and we serve the entire United States.
Ground Clearance Defined
Ground clearance is the distance between the lowest point of the vehicle and the level surface underneath it. Tires are not a part of this definition (since they are designed to make contact with the ground).
This measurement is taken of an empty vehicle. The ground clearance may be slightly lower once the vehicle is full of fuel, passengers, and cargo.
Ground Clearance and Vehicle Design
In general, off-road vehicles tend to be designed with high ground clearance. It's common for manufacturers to build SUVs, pickup trucks, and minivans with higher than average ground clearance. In contrast, vehicles such as sports cars tend to be made with lower ground clearance.
Benefits of High Ground Clearance
There are many advantages of high ground clearance, especially for pickup truck owners.
Easier Upkeep
It'll be easier to lift your pickup truck for routine maintenance. If your pickup truck encounters a serious issue and needs to be towed, it will be easier for a tow truck to transport it to the repair shop. The higher ground clearance also leads to a reduced chance of undercarriage damage, which can save you a significant amount of money on pickup truck repairs.
Better Visibility
A pickup truck with higher ground clearance is more easily seen by other motorists. This helps reduce the chances of an accident, which helps boost your safety on the open road.
It's also easier for you to see the road. You'll be able to spot upcoming obstacles sooner and adjust accordingly faster, which also helps reduce the risks of an accident.
Increased Route Options
A pickup truck with higher ground clearance can enjoy access to a wider range of places. It can navigate unpaved roads and trails where obstacles can stick out...without getting undercarriage damage.
Plus, the pickup truck will have a lower chance of getting stuck when driving over large obstacles, such as big ruts in the ground or steep inclines.
Ready to get a custom aluminum bumper for your pickup truck and boost its ground clearance? Truck Defender Bumpers can help you get the perfect option for your budget, vehicle, and lifestyle. Reach out or stop by our dealership in Vale, South Dakota. We serve those throughout the United States.