Ideas for 4WD Accessories - Comfort, Use, Safety... Useful Upgrades

[SoonerP226]

Maybe I should get Forscan, but need an OBD II cable.

If you have Bluetooth on your laptop, grab one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07JFRFJG6

I had the older (much less expensive) version that I used with my ‘13 F-150, but this newer version will pair with my iPhone so I can use FORScan Lite. The Lite version can’t do programming (you need the Windows version for that), but it lets you do diagnostics and check issues while you’re on the road.

 

[Catt57]

Thank you for the responses! Sorry for a late reply, wanted to put some thought into this. The Bronco is a 2024. I expect mostly road use with some light off road use, definitely inclement weather (snow, ice which I have encountered in trips) and travel. Did not consider a Kinetic rope, shackles or a shovel, have the basics such as a decent First Aid Kit, some light tools. The Jack is a good idea too, hadn't considered that. Air compressor is covered, a simple hand held one by Wolfbox. Mine has the Plastic Bumpers, any downsides to switching to metal? Another item I have in all my vehicles is a dashcam, which has come in handy on two occasions (no accident, just a drunk driver and someone trying to crash their car into me.) Mechanically may get a Cold Air Intake, and Tuner. Any mods that people have regretted?

As for rubber ducks, is that a "Jeep thang" only?

Your mention travel and inclement weather. 4wd or not, I'd keep a set of chains in it.

 

[thor447]

Yes, several features I turned off, the collision warning system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings. Those can be fixed through the settings. The auto start stop was a hardware fix. Best $99 I've ever spent on a vehicle. The cheaper ones that work through the OBD port are easy to install, but I have heard that people have issues with windows after it is installed. Maybe I should get Forscan, but need an OBD II cable.

I just bought the auto start stop adapter for my Tundra that goes between the factory switch and harness. Got it at a steal. Best $20 I've ever spent on a vehicle. I wish I'd bought one for my previous vehicle years ago, but at least the auto hold and start stop buttons were next to each other on the previous vehicle. On the Tundra, they are on opposite sides of the dash. It was such a nuisance to disable it each time I got in the truck.

 

[Jason Freeland]

Actually good advice on the Jump Pack, haven't thought of one. Thanks also for the brand of LED Lights... One reason I haven't been hip on lights is the tendency for stuff to be aftermarket Junk. Also the hood struts is a great idea, hate the prop.

Just remember to keep the charge up. I have them in all my vehicles, but when we needed one recently for my daughters car, it wasn't charged enough to work. Fortunately I had arrived with a recently charged one, now we charge at least once a year. Also get the lithium ones, they hold a charge much better than the lead acid type.

 

[TANSTAAFL]

I just bought the auto start stop adapter for my Tundra that goes between the factory switch and harness. Got it at a steal. Best $20 I've ever spent on a vehicle. I wish I'd bought one for my previous vehicle years ago, but at least the auto hold and start stop buttons were next to each other on the previous vehicle. On the Tundra, they are on opposite sides of the dash. It was such a nuisance to disable it each time I got in the truck.

Worst solution I have seen, a guy cut the corner of an old credit card, then stuck it between the button and the bezel and posted to ebay, cheap, but I suspect sooner or later the switch will overheat and possibly cause a fire...

BTW, I like the cheap stuff suggested (chains, jump pack, pump, ladder boards, shovel) Stuff that could go in a duffel bag!

 

[C_Hallbert]

Thought I would go to this forum for ideas on useful upgrades for my Bronco. Not looking for any Ford specific ones, just ideas on what works for comfort, safety and everyday usefulness, quality as well.

So Far I have added an Auto Start Stop Eliminator, which really has improved the driving experience (I know longer need to hit a button every time I start the vehicle.) The second upgrade is a set of for paracord rollbar grab handles which are more conveniently located than the stock ones.

Looking for those that have experience with lights, radio mounts, vaults or other upgrades that improve the everyday experience with their vehicle or make it more fun to drive. Also would like to hear of upgrades or accessories you have disliked.

Also would like to hear about exterior lighting, do you have issues with wind noise after.

Lastly, I do have enough cupholders... However I did see a nice one here fabricated from a piston!

Excellent tires, Winch, HighLift Jack, Shovel, Axe, Bow Saw or Chainsaw, Spare Tire, Air Compressor, first Aid Kit and a device (Cellphone, Satellite Phone or Radio are essential for any off road travel when off the grid. Oh, Duct Tape, Water, Food, Appropriate Clothing, too.

 

[Catt57]

And don't forget tools, jumper cables, etc....

 

[elwoodtrix]

I just got a Tesla. They don't come with a spare! People recommend an air pump, slime, and a tire plug kit on many social media groups. I'm like, 99% of people have never patched a bicycle tire, and you're recommending a tire plug kit!!! LOLOLOL
With a 4X4, a tire plug kit would be more recommendable with a portable tire inflator.
I did buy this, not the tire plug kit.
https://www.amazon.com/Fanttik-X8-A...cphy=9026171&hvtargid=pla-2281435182138&psc=1

 

[TANSTAAFL]

I just got a Tesla. They don't come with a spare! People recommend an air pump, slime, and a tire plug kit on many social media groups. I'm like, 99% of people have never patched a bicycle tire, and you're recommending a tire plug kit!!! LOLOLOL
With a 4X4, a tire plug kit be more recommendable with a portable tire inflator.
I did buy this, not the tire plug kit.
https://www.amazon.com/Fanttik-X8-A...cphy=9026171&hvtargid=pla-2281435182138&psc=1

My last two Mustangs came with a pump and the slime combo. Never had to use it fortunately.

 

[TANSTAAFL]

If you have Bluetooth on your laptop, grab one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07JFRFJG6

I had the older (much less expensive) version that I used with my ‘13 F-150, but this newer version will pair with my iPhone so I can use FORScan Lite. The Lite version can’t do programming (you need the Windows version for that), but it lets you do diagnostics and check issues while you’re on the road.

I actually may get this, have a BT laptop, may be a $ saving purchase. Couple of features I need to shut off and Forscan is supposed to do it.