When & how to use four-wheel drive
Key points
- Four wheel drive sends equal power to all four wheels for extra traction, making it useful for tough jobs, off roading, and slippery conditions.
- Drivers can switch between 4WD high for higher speed, low traction roads and 4WD low for slow, rugged terrain that requires maximum torque.
- Using 4WD on dry, smooth pavement can damage the vehicle and waste fuel, so it should only be turned on when conditions call for it.
- AWD works automatically and is designed for lighter duty vehicles, but traction still depends on the vehicle type and the condition of your tires.
Four-wheel drive (4WD) is a vehicle system that powers the front and rear wheel axles at the same speed to help gain traction, according to Car and Driver. Drivers have to start a vehicle's 4WD system manually, but a vehicle's all-wheel drive (AWD) system is always on.
4WD systems are traditionally found in large trucks and sport utility vehicles, Edmunds says.
When should you use four-wheel drive (4WD)?
4WD is the way to go for heavy-duty jobs like hauling a boat trailer up a launch ramp, according to Consumer Reports.
Car and Driver notes that 4WD is not meant to be used all the time. It's only for certain road types, including rugged terrain and off-roading, as well as slippery conditions, like snow or mud. Otherwise, 4WD vehicles should be driven in two-wheel drive, according to Car and Driver.
How to use 4WD
Most 4WD systems offer drivers the option of shifting between the 4WD high or 4WD low range, according to Edmunds. The default setting is the high range. When to use high range vs. low range depends on driving conditions.
When should you use 4WD high?
Popular Mechanics notes high range is for higher speeds and less traction than 4WD low. Edmunds recommends using 4WD high range on dirt or paved roads that are snowy, slick or icy.
When should you use 4WD low?
Edmunds says 4WD low range is for off-roading conditions, like deep sand, where you need serious traction. Unlike 4WD high, adds Motor Authority, the low setting turns the wheels slowly but gives you more torque on less forgiving terrain.
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get a quoteWhen you shouldn't use 4WD
Do not use 4WD on flat, smooth and dry roads, as it can damage your vehicle, according to Consumer Reports. Family Handyman adds that 4WD uses up more fuel to get the gears and drive shaft going. Turn it off when you don't need it to save on gas.
What is All-wheel drive (AWD)?
According to Cars.com, all-wheel drive (AWD) is a system that automatically gives power to all four wheels at once. It's typically used for lighter-duty vehicles such as sedans or car-based SUVs. An AWD engine can also regulate how much power is being sent to the front and back tires. This helps the car get the best possible traction. Cars.com adds that 4WD or AWD alone don't dictate your car's traction performance. You also need to consider the specific type of car you have and the condition of your tires.