Don't Get Stuck - Know Before You Go

We heard some important tips from local Sheriff Mike Corbell and Twiddy Ambassador Edward Ponton, a longtime local resident, during our Beach Ambassador training.

When asked what they see most often, both emphasized the need for patience, as many visitors may be using four-wheel drive for the first time. They also shared some practical advice that we hope will help anyone planning a beach visit.

Know Before You Go! How not to get stuck on the 4x4 beaches of Corolla.

One of the most common issues? Drivers arriving at the ramp and only then trying to figure out how to engage four-wheel drive. Before heading to the beach, take some time to learn how your vehicle’s system works—refer to the owner’s manual or watch a YouTube video for your specific make and model.

Here are some key takeaways:

• Don’t assume your vehicle has four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. It may seem obvious based on the type of vehicle, but that’s not always the case.
  

• Double-check rental vehicle. You may think you rented the proper 4x4 or all-wheel drive vehicle, but rental companies reserve the right to substitute a “similar” vehicle. Confirm before leaving the rental lot. It’s also wise to review the insurance policy, as many rental agreements restrict off-road use, especially if the vehicle gets stuck or is damaged.
  

• Know how to engage your vehicle’s off-road settings. Every four-wheel drive vehicle is different. Newer models may have a Sand mode that automatically adjusts settings for soft sand driving. Others may require you to manually disable traction control or other required settings, and older vehicles may even require manually locking the hubs. Know before you go.
  

• Don’t confuse traction control with four-wheel drive. They are different systems and serve different purposes. Not all vehicles use the same terminology; some require separate settings. But the important fact about traction control is that is should be off for beach driving, otherwise can lead to excessive slipping, and overheat the braking system and transmission (a potential cause of car fires).

  
  

• Airing down is essential. No matter how capable your vehicle is, if your tires aren’t properly aired down, you are likely to get stuck. Recovering a stuck vehicle in the sand can be expensive—and dangerous—especially if you’re blocking the entrance ramp or caught near the shoreline with the tide coming in. It is recommended that vehicles have at least 7.5 inches of ground clearance and that tires be aired down to 15–18 PSI. Not airing down also leaves deep ruts, which leads to more stuck vehicles!
  

• Need help airing down? Twiddy Vacation Rentals offers a free air-down/air-up service called Air Force One on Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., May through September. Stop by their location at 1142 Ocean Trail, Corolla, and their team will help get you beach ready. This is a free service to all visitors.

• Most importantly consult your vehicle owner’s manual or other reference before hitting the beach. Understanding your vehicle’s settings in advance can save you time, money, and frustration.