Build for Off Road concentrates on aggressive off-road builds that are not just for looks; they are purpose-built machines made with the extreme off-roader in mind. At the end of each build, host Ian Johnson tests its capabilities in the ultimate off-road environment. This series captures the off-road lifestyle, with projects ranging from slow-moving rock crawlers to high-horsepower hill-climbers and everything in between.

Airs weekends on , check local listings for times.

Meet the Host

Meet Ian Johnson

Ian Johnson

Ian Johnson built his first off-road vehicle when he was 17 years old – a 1985 Jeep CJ7 that quickly became a serious off-road rig with a V8 swap, custom-built transmission, and one-ton axles. He then pursued his career as an automotive technician, obtaining his certification in both Automotive and Heavy Truck and Coach, specializing in driveline repair.

While working at a large GM dealership, Ian had multiple apprentices and co-op students pass through his bay. This sparked his interest in becoming a high school shop teacher. After leaving the trade to complete his diploma in Education, Ian started teaching high school automotive mechanics and welding, creating a successful program that integrated custom fabrication – including building off-road tube buggies with his students.

Ian left his teaching job to launch Xtreme 4×4, the first serious off-road how-to show on the air, and it quickly became the highest-rated show on PowerBlock TV. For 14 years, Ian was the host, technical producer, and sole on-site builder in over 300 half-hour episodes. With five seasons of MotorTrendTV’s FourWheeler under his belt, Ian continues to set the standard for creating rugged, custom-made machines with Build for Off Road and is always on the cutting edge of the next trend.

Build for Off Road

Build for Off Road6 days ago

If Big Bear was just the warm-up, Johnson Valley is the main event! This off-road mecca—home of King of the Hammers—is where legends are made and rigs are truly tested. Follow the Build for Off Road Adventure Ride as we take on some of the most iconic and brutal trails in the U.S. 🇺🇸 Get ready as the crew from Two Guys Garage and Truck U join Ian from Big Tire Garage for rocks, carnage, and nonstop action! More info on the adventure >> https://bit.ly/43cE9fL

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Build for Off Road1 week ago

In this episode of Build For Off Road, Ian from Big Tire Garage is back under the hood of his body-swapped C10, and this time it's all about bringing the twin turbo setup to life. From custom parts and plumbing to sensors and wiring, he walks through everything needed to get this beast ready to run. Then, it’s time to dial in the tune and fire up the engine for the very first time.

Now streaming on MotorTrend TV, discovery+, Max and RFD-TV!

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Build for Off Road1 month ago

On this episode of Build for Off Road, Ian from Big Tire Garage is diving into Project Rock Raider — a one-of-a-kind FJ45 pickup built with the heart of a long-travel Toyota and the soul of an Ultra4 race car. 🛻💥 Get ready for serious fabrication!

Now streaming on MotorTrend TV, discovery+ and Max!

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"Build for Off Road" host Ian Johnson uses Herculiner product during an episode of "Build for Off Road."

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