The short answer
When a wheel lifts, apply smooth, steady throttle and let the brake-based traction system brake the spinning wheel so torque goes to the one with grip. Do not stab the throttle. If it still will not move, change the line, use boards or stones to give the lifted wheel something to bear on, or consider turning ESP off only if the system keeps cutting power.
Do
- Use smooth, steady throttle
- Give the system a moment to work
- Stop and look at the line
- Pack stones under the lifted wheel
- Use a spotter
Do not
- Stab the throttle
- Spin the wheel for long
- Leave ESP off without a reason
- Force it into the same line
- Keep trying until you dig in
What is happening
The Jimny has open differentials, so torque goes to the wheel with least grip. A brake-based system, listed as traction control and described by owners as BLSD, brakes the spinning wheel to move torque across the axle. It works best with steady throttle.
Reported behaviour. Owners report the brake-based function goes off with ESP. See ESP off and BLSD.
What to do
- Stop and look. Which wheel is up, and where is the grip?
- Smooth throttle, in 4L, and give the system a few seconds
- Back off if the wheel just spins faster
- Give it something. Stones or a traction board under the lifted wheel can restore grip
- Change the line so the lifted wheel meets higher ground
Other help
- Diff lockers are an aftermarket option, see diff lockers and traction aids
- Lower tire pressures help the tire follow the ground, see tire pressures
- If you are stuck, see recovery gear
Pick your situation
Tap a situation to see what to do.
Tap a situation (6 to try)
What to do for Front wheel in the air
- Do this
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- Details
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Common mistakes
- Stabbing the throttle. The wheel spins and digs in.
- Leaving ESP off. It reduces safety on the road.
- Repeating the same line. Change it.
- Spinning for too long. It heats and damages parts.
- Skipping boards and stones. They are cheap help.
A final word. General technique, not a substitute for training or your owner's manual. Practise on easy ground first, with a spotter, and stop if you are unsure.