Driving CX-9 on the beach

[Tominpa]

I have a 2008 CX-9 AWD and would like to take it to a vehicle accessible beach in NJ. We do not plan to do anything other than drive on the beach find a good spot and park. No crazy stuff at all since I would rather not get stuck. Has anyone taken their CX-9 on the beach and/or does anyone have any advice as to tire pressure, driving tips, etc.? Thanks!

 

[ceric]

I don't think AWD system is the question.
All you need are proper tyres (tires) for that.

 

[MBDon]

Yes....you will have to air down your tires....probably to around 15 lbs psi. Most beaches that allow car traffic also require you to purchase a beach permit and to carry emergency equipment that will help you get "unstuck" should the need arise (shovel, tow strap, jack, etc.) Best advice is to check with the administrative agency who is responsible for the beach, and they will inform you about what you need to do.

 

[CX9 SportOwner]

The problem with a CX9 is the weight to flotation ratio, which is pretty bad. I wouldn't try it if the sand is either very dry, or very wet. If they have a traffic section, stay on it.

And use the 2nd gear hold, just like you would on ice.

Don't reduce the air in the tires either. They are not designed for that, and you can not only cup the tread, reducing traction, but damage the beads, or even peel them right off the rims.

 

[nazgul350r]

Don't reduce the air in the tires either. They are not designed for that, and you can not only cup the tread, reducing traction, but damage the beads, or even peel them right off the rims.

That is true if you are on a paved road however on sand or off road conditions you will want to lower the pressure of the tires to enlarge the contact patch on the sand.

But before you get back on the road air them back up to the suggested psi.

 

[justanothermp5]

yea ive seen numerous jeeps let air out of there tires before they drive on the beach, never knew why until know though

 

[CX9 SportOwner]

Sorry, but it's true on any surface. This is a 4500lb SUV with street tires, not a 1000lb sand rail or a Jeep with high flotation tires, specifically designed to run at lower pressure.

If you want to drive on beaches, get an off-roader.

 

[bgibb68]

+10 to letting air out....take a tow rope and a air pump....done

 

[MBDon]

Gotta respectfully disagree, SportOwner. I've driven hundreds of miles on the sandy beaches of Assateague Island in Maryland, where I was instructed by the Park Police to "air down" before entering the beach. In fact, the Park Service provided air pump stations so that you could "air up" when you exited the beach. My beach travel was done with a "bone" stock Jeep Cherokee (large, heavy station wagon type) with street tires....with no problems. If the tread cups, the sand will more than likely conform to it. Also, keep in mind that motorized travel on sandy beaches is at a relatively slow speed....typically 15 to 25 mph, tops. Airing down increases the size of the contact patch, and subsequently improves the flotation ratio you mentioned.

 

[CX9 SportOwner]

Still a big difference between a Cherokee and a CX9, both in weight and stock tires.
If someone airs their CX9 down to 15psi and drives on sand successfully, I will concede that it's possible. If they do and have problems, though, I'd like them to be man enough to post those results.

 

[Davicho]

I have to also respectfully disagree with you CX9SO. Airing down while off-roading (whether sand, loose soil, muddy terrain) is essential if not completely nessesary to provide better traction in these types of situations. Ask any avid off-roader and you will always get the same answer. I used to own a Nissan Frontier that I used to take off-roading with a group of friends and we always air down to as low as 14-15 psi when reaching our trail and air-up with on-board compressors when it was time to hit the asphalt once again.

Here is a little video of me and my buddies having a good time:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZ0PvXBs0SM

 

[CX9 SportOwner]

I grew up off roading, in a host of different vehicles from 2 to 6 wheels. I totally agree that you run low pressure with those vehicles on sand. My point is that those vehicles typically have wider tires and/or are better suited for those conditions.
If we did see a regular vehicle on the sand, it was usually a VW, or something else really light, with tires that cost about $10 to replace.

Your video actually reinforces my statement. You're all in Jeeps and trucks with lift kits and oversized off road tires, and some were still struggling, or having to be extra cautious.

Try it in a CX9, if you have to, but I'd opt for a vehicle designed for off roading instead.

 

[Davicho]

Try it in a CX9, if you have to, but I'd opt for a vehicle designed for off roading instead.

You are absolutely right. I also agree of why would anyone in their right mind want to put their CX-9 in the sand much more off-road it. If you are going to the beach, park your CX-9 in the parking lot and wnjoy the walk throught the hot sand instead.

I hope you enjoyed my video. My Fronty was the one with the black bullbar and the KC lights in the front. It was a 2WD, hence the struggles, but I think it always did a great job out in the trails...it even got a name from all my off-roading buddies..."The Lil' Fronty That Could"

 

[racrans]

Looked like a lot of fun! Don't think I would even consider taking my new CX-9 any where near the place though A drive on the beach I might enjoy...

 

[Force-1]

I spent hundreds of hours driving on the beach at Pismo Beach, CA, to include SUVs and sedans. I always deflated tires to about 15 PSI, then inflated on the way off the beach. Never had any tire issues.

Pretty much SOP at Pismo.