Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Off-Road Upgrades – UK Buyer’s Guide



Published by OFM4x4 UK • Updated 27 September 2025 • ~10 min read


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The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is legendary for reliability and off-road capability. But to unlock its full potential on UK trails, upgrades are often necessary. From suspension lifts to differential lockers, each modification helps your Prado tackle mud, rocks, steep climbs and rough tracks with confidence. In this guide, we cover the must-have off-road upgrades, how to choose them, and link to relevant products/categories you can shop today.

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Suspension & Lift Kits

One of the first upgrades most Prado owners consider is a lift — to increase ground clearance, wheel travel and tyre size. The key components include springs, shocks/dampers, spacers and link arms.

  • Springs & shock absorber kits: Go for brands like Ironman 4x4, Tough Dog, or TRE4x4 where available. Use your Prado’s weight and wheel travel needs to choose the right kit.
  • Lift spacers: A cost-effective way to gain a moderate lift (2″–3″) by placing spacers above struts or below leaf springs.
  • Upgraded dampers/shocks: Stronger dampers help control body motion on trails and when loaded.

Shop suspension upgrades: Prado Suspension Lift Kits (OFM4x4 UK)

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Bumpers & Protection

Protection is essential when you’re exploring forest tracks, rocky climbs or farm tracks. Bumpers, bash plates, and side rock sliders—all protect vulnerable bodywork and mechanicals.

  • Front & rear steel bumpers: Winch-compatible bars with recovery points.
  • Underbody skid plates/belly pans: Shield diff, fuel tank, transmission.
  • Side protection/rock sliders: Prevent damage to sills.

Shop protection gear: Protection & Armor Parts (OFM4x4 UK)

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Wheels & Tyres

Selecting the right wheels and tyres is critical for traction, ride comfort, and compatibility with lift setups.

  • Beadlock-style / tough off-road wheels: Help in very low-pressure driving.
  • All-terrain (AT) or Mud-terrain (MT) tyres: Brands like Nitto, BFGoodrich, Toyo, Yokohama, etc.
  • Wheel offsets & load ratings: Make sure the wheel spec is safe and suits the Prado’s axle loads.

Shop wheels & tyres: Tyres & Wheels (OFM4x4 UK)

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Lockers & Drivetrain

To turn wheelspin into forward momentum, a differential locker is one of the most effective upgrades. We already have a dedicated comparison—here’s how Prado owners can use it.

Choose among: TRE4x4 Air Locker, TRE4x4 Crab Locker, and TRE4x4 Electric Locker. Use the guide to match your use case.

Shop drivetrain upgrades: Drivetrain & Axle Parts (OFM4x4 UK)

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Recovery & Winches

No off-road build is complete without robust recovery gear—because things can and will go wrong.

  • Electric or hydraulic winches (rated for your Prado’s GVW plus safety margin).
  • Recovery straps, shackles, tree savers, snatch blocks.
  • High-lift jacks, recovery boards, and off-road tool kits.

Shop recovery gear: Winches & Recovery Gear (OFM4x4 UK)

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Overlanding & Accessories

Going off-grid? Equip the Prado with the right overlanding gear to make it practical and comfortable.

  • Roof racks, roof tents, awnings
  • Fridges, drawer systems, auxiliary lighting
  • Communications (radios, aerials), water & fuel carrying systems

Shop overlanding gear: Overland & Accessories (OFM4x4 UK)

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FAQs – Prado Off-Road Upgrades

1. How much lift can a Prado safely take?
Most Prado models can handle 2″–3″ lifts with proper geometry correction (long arms, drop brackets). Go beyond that only with an expert setup.

2. Will a locker affect road driving?
No—lockers are engaged on demand. In normal driving, your Prado behaves as usual.

3. Should I upgrade wheels before tyres?
Ideally, upgrade both together. Choose wheels with appropriate offset & load rating to match tyres and suspension setup.

4. Do I need to change brake lines with a lift?
Possibly. Depending on the lift height and kit design, extended or rerouted brake lines may be needed.

5. Can I invest gradually?
Yes. Start with suspension and protection, then add lockers, recovery gear, and overlanding rigs over time.

6. Will these upgrades help in UK conditions?
Absolutely. Mud, wet grass, forest tracks, and tow loads all benefit from improved suspension, protection and traction gear.