Unit of competency Outline
Date retreived
22/07/2026 5:42 AM AWST
22/07/2026 5:42 AM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Operate a four wheel drive on unsealed roads
Operate a four wheel drive on unsealed roads
Unit of competency
National Code
FWPCOT3259
FWPCOT3259
State Code
AXL04
AXL04
TGA Status
Replaced
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Replaced
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/10/2016
Field of Education
030515 - Automotive Vehicle Operations
Original Release Date
05/10/2016
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit of competency describes the outcomes required to safely operate a four wheel drive (4x4) vehicle on unsealed roads.The unit applies to operating a 4x4 vehicle in a variety of work settings with different terrains.Licensing, legislative, regulatory, or certification requirements apply to this unit in some states and territories at the time of publication, and may differ according to jurisdiction.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Identify four-wheel drive specific terms and terminology
- 1.1 Access, interpret and apply information relevant to operating a four-wheel drive vehicle on unsealed roads.
- 1.2 Identify the structural and handling differences between a conventional two-wheel drive vehicle and a four-wheel drive vehicle.
- 1.3 Identify four-wheel drive techniques.
2. Conduct checks of 4x4 vehicle and equipment
- 2.1 Perform pre-start checks.
- 2.2 Secure loads in line with organisational, workplace safety and environmental requirements.
- 2.3 Select suitable navigation aids where necessary.
- 2.4 Advise passengers of any special safety precautions to be taken when traversing rough terrain.
- 2.5 Check that tyre pressure is suitable for terrain and that it is changed as required in line with organisational procedures.
- 2.6 Select and access maintenance equipment prior to departure after considering the contextual issues.
3. Prepare for 4x4 operations
- 3.1 Identify and follow work health and safety (WHS), environmental, and organisational requirements relevant to operating a 4x4 vehicle.
- 3.2 Determine type of operation and ensure safe operating conditions.
- 3.3 Establish communication with others and choose the required safety mechanisms in line with organisational requirements.
4. Operate 4x4 vehicle on unsealed terrain types
- 4.1 Continually monitor the track to identify hazards, assess risks, and select the best route in line with WHS and environmental requirements.
- 4.2 Identify situations where the engagement of four-wheel drive is required and engage front hubs or centre differential lock where fitted.
- 4.3 Use appropriate range, gear, speed, driving and braking technique to negotiate a range of terrain types while maintaining control of vehicle at all times.
- 4.4 Check brakes and undercarriage after negotiating varying terrain.
- 4.5 Park and shut down 4x4 vehicle in line with manufacturer specifications and organisational requirements.
5. Operate 4x4 vehicle on a steep slope
- 5.1 Inspect intended 4x4 vehicle path prior to negotiation of slope.
- 5.2 Use appropriate range, gear, speed, driving and braking technique to negotiate a steep slope, while maintaining control of vehicle.
- 5.3 Use control braking to ascend and descend, and avoid skidding.
- 5.4 Maintain traction in line with requirements of 4x4 vehicle.
- 5.5 Apply appropriate automatic and manual techniques when 4x4 vehicle cannot proceed any further on a steep slope due to traction problems.
6. Perform maintenance and minor repairs on 4x4 vehicles
- 6.1 Perform operational maintenance and minor repairs as detailed in the vehicle operator manual and report vehicle defects to the appropriate person.
- 6.2 Demonstrate safe use of a jack to support a 4x4 vehicle while changing a tyre under relevant road terrains and conditions within the operating environment
- 6.3 Clean and store 4x4 vehicle and equipment after use in line with manufacturer specifications and organisational procedures.
- 6.4 Document maintenance and minor repairs in line with organisational procedures.
No information
No information
Replaces
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| WF822 | FPICOT3259 | Operate a four wheel drive on unsealed roads | Unit of competency |
Replaced By
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| ODS32 | FWPCOT3325 | Operate four wheel drive vehicle on unsealed roads | Unit of competency |