4.
- Power Distribution: You can manually switch between 2WD and 4WD modes. In 4WD mode, power goes to both the front and rear wheels.
- Components: 4WD includes a transfer case for switching between high and low gear ranges, plus front and rear differentials.
- Best for: Off-roading and extreme driving conditions.
- Advantages: 4WD gives you the best traction and control for off-roading or driving in rough, rocky conditions. Also, can propel itself forward with only one wheel having grip.
- Disadvantages: Less fuel efficient, lots of hardware majority of the people do not use in their lifetime and extra costs.
2WD and AWD drivetrains are not configurable. They do have a few traction control modes like Mud, Snow, Sand etc. There are all electronic aids and adjust the traction control. Generally, no user input required. 4WD vehicles offer lots of user control.
Understanding 2H, 4H, and 4L Modes
2H (Two-Wheel Drive High):
- How it works: In 2H, the vehicle runs in two-wheel drive, meaning power goes to rear wheels, depending on the vehicle.
- When to use it: This is the mode you want for regular driving on paved roads. It’s the most fuel-efficient option and perfect for everyday conditions.
4H (Four-Wheel Drive High):
- How it works: In 4H, power goes to all four wheels, but at a higher gear ratio. This helps when you need extra grip at higher speeds, like on loose or slippery surfaces.
- When to use it: Use 4H when driving on gravel, snow, or moderate off-road trails. But don’t use it on dry, paved roads, as it can damage the drivetrain by causing it to bind.
4L (Four-Wheel Drive Low):
- How it works: In 4L, the vehicle uses a low gear ratio to provide maximum power at low speeds. This is ideal for tough, slow-speed conditions where you need full control.
- When to use it: 4L is perfect for rock crawling, deep sand, steep hills, or heavy towing. Avoid using it on high-speed roads or paved surfaces—it’s meant for low-speed, high-torque situations.
When to Use These Modes on Different Surfaces
Paved Roads (Sealed Surfaces):
- 2H: This is your go-to mode for regular driving on paved roads.
- 4H: Not recommended for paved roads, as it can cause damage to the vehicle due to the lack of wheel slip.
- 4L: Not suited for paved roads at all—this mode is built for slow, controlled movement in challenging off-road situations.
Off-Road Conditions (Non-Sealed Surfaces):
- 2H: Avoid using 2H off-road—it doesn’t provide enough traction for rough terrain.
- 4H: Perfect for loose gravel, mud, snow, or sand, where you need extra grip at moderate speeds.
- 4L: Ideal for extreme off-roading like rock crawling, deep mud, or steep hills where you need maximum power and control.
Activating 4WD in Different Vehicles
1. Rotary Dial
Example: Toyota Fortuner
How to Activate:
- Locate the Dial: Find the rotary dial on the dashboard, usually labeled with 2H, 4H, and 4L.
- Switch to 4H: Turn the dial to 4H for four-wheel drive high. This is great for slippery conditions like snow or gravel.
- Switch to 4L: To engage four-wheel drive low, turn the dial to 4L. This mode provides maximum torque for tough off-road conditions like deep mud or steep hills.
2. Gear Lever
Example: Mahindra Thar
How to Activate:
- Locate the Lever: Find the 4WD gear lever, usually next to the main gear shift.
- Shift to 4H: Move the lever to the 4H position for four-wheel drive high. This is useful for moderate off-road conditions.
- Shift to 4L: To engage four-wheel drive low, put the vehicle in neutral, then move the lever to the 4L position. This mode is ideal for extreme off-road situations.
3. On-Screen Controls
Example: Range Rover
How to Activate:
- Access the Screen: Use the vehicle’s infotainment system or a dedicated 4WD control screen.
- Select 4H: Navigate through the menu to select 4H for four-wheel drive high. This mode is suitable for slippery or loose surfaces.
- Select 4L: To engage four-wheel drive low, select 4L from the menu. This provides maximum torque for challenging terrains.
- As always, car systems can only do so much. Always go offraoding in groups, have a tow rope and tow bar handy and know the limits of yourself and the car.
