4 Wheel Drive Modes, Which Should You Use?

Is 4 wheel drive new to you? not sure what each of the modes do, and which you should use? In this video, Len explains the differences in 4 wheel drive modes, and what the reasons are to use each mode.

Check out this playlist for more tips from Len and the other 1A Auto mechanics!

⚠ DISCLAIMER:
While 1A Auto strives to make the information provided in this video as accurate as possible, it makes no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or applicability of the content. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All do-it-yourself projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. 1A Auto is not responsible or liable for any loss damage (including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, or punitive), liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or resulting from any information posted in this video.

[adamwofford]

Great video. But you left out one thing that I've noticed in my time as a manager of a fleet of Chevys' - the 4WD Auto mode causes extra wear in the transfer case. And if 4WD Auto isn't functioning correctly, meaning it engages when it shouldn't, you can cause drivability issues and damage to the transfer case. I advise all my drivers to only use 4WD Auto when there is a real chance of lost traction, in inclimate weather or off pavement, otherwise, always remain in 2WD.

[Igh]

Out of all the videos I have seen you are the only person who explain everything with details on everything 👍 👍 👍 👍 thank you

[shadowowner]

Great explanation, thank you! My work truck has 4wd auto and I used it today for driving on the highway since we had several days of snow. The highway was clean but still I was concerned, a coworker told me I was not supposed to use 4wd in highway but the auto function makes sense! Thank you so much.

[johnf.]

I now have a clear understanding of my 4 wheel drive Ram. Thank you !

[LuisPerez-vybz]

Wow! Hands down the most straight forward, clear cut video on how to properly use the settings. Thank you and this was very helpful! Much appreciated!

[KevinBenecke]

One thing about going into 4 Low is a lot of times is in a lot of vehicles, you have to put the transmission in neutral in order to go in and out of low range. And the other thing is, in some trucks you have to lock the hubs in order to use 4X4. Ford's are known for this. And if you have a lever to select the 4X4 ranges, when you go to low range, you usually have to pass through the neutral position in a smooth manner because sometimes if you aren't quick enough, you can get stuck between 4HI and 4LOW because even if the transmission in in neutral, which it usually has to be when switch between 4H and 4L. If this happens, shut off the engine so everything stops. This should allow you to shift into the range you wanted to be in.

[buckshot]

When going into 4 low it's best to make the shift just before you come to a complete stop. This will insure it will go in without grinding or binding. I wish they would offer the more reilable manual transfer case shifter. Too many electronics on these new vehicles and when the fuse breaks you are stuck.

[mohammedtariq]

A wonderful and very thorough explanation ... I thank this wonderful channel for all the valuable information it publishes, and I hope the giving continues👌..

[Texano-]

This is the only video I’ve found that properly explains Auto 4x4. So thanks man

[sstritmatter]

I go through all the 4x4 options once a month for about 1/10th of a mile in my Tacoma to ensure it stays working if it is used a little bit. Good video

[barrybebenek]

Once again, fantastic explanations. 🇨🇦👍🏼

[bondservantministriesinc.]

Awesomeness! I have been wanting more information about 4x4 driving before I purchase one! Thank you for explaining this, and making it easy to understand! Do you have a video about locking differentials? Thanks again!

[rickhummer]

Great job! Most info on 4 x 4 I’ve ever watched. Thanks👍

[chrisyoungs]

Great video. Very simple explanation of how this all works.

[utjon]

Thank you! This is a great explanation, especially for someone like me who had no idea when to use the 4x wheel drive options.

[trubeast]

What if it's snowing and you're on the freeway, what setting should you use?

[gregoneill]

Equal power to all 4wheels will only happen with locked axles. Most every 4x4 trucks have an open front differential.

[randywitter]

I have a ram 1500 laramie and i switch into 4wd lock while doing over 100km or switch out of it too. I even drive on the highway for more than 7 hours straight with 4wd on and alot of times too. To be honest i didnt know. sometimes u just dont know until you know.

[johnvillaraza]

the best video explaining how a 4wd system works!

[FocusedWALK]

I live in Alaska where 4wd is a must. In the winter we drive on the highways in 4wd. I’ve never heard that it’s bad for the vehicle above 55mph. Is this causing damage when I drive 65-70 on straight away/ highways?