Can 4H Be Used on Highways?
4 Answers
4H cannot be used on highways. Here are the relevant details: 1. 4H: This is the high-speed four-wheel drive mode. It can be used on highways if there is snow accumulation, such as during winter in Northeast China; however, it is unnecessary on dry highway surfaces. 4H is part of the full-time four-wheel drive system and is perfectly suitable for highways and paved roads, with fuel consumption comparable to two-wheel drive. 2. Purpose of 4H: It is typically used on surfaces where 2H (two-wheel drive) is prone to slipping. Additionally, engaging 4H makes it easier for the vehicle to climb slopes. The 'H' stands for high-speed mode. It is used when road conditions are favorable, the engine has sufficient power, or the vehicle load is light.
I'm a driver with over 30 years of experience and have seen all kinds of weather conditions. The 4H mode can indeed be used on highways, especially during rain, icy, or snowy conditions, as it provides better traction and prevents skidding. I once used 4H on the highway during a heavy rainstorm and felt the vehicle was much more stable. However, if the road is dry and flat, I still recommend switching back to 2H mode to reduce fuel consumption and tire wear. After all, running the four-wheel-drive system for extended periods on dry roads adds unnecessary strain and may accelerate wear on drivetrain components. Safety always comes first, so adjust the use of 4H according to actual conditions—don’t keep it on just for convenience.
As a car enthusiast, I'm familiar with vehicle four-wheel drive systems. 4H is the high-speed four-wheel drive mode, specifically designed for highway driving, including freeways. It enhances stability on slippery or muddy sections by distributing power to all four wheels, so it's perfectly fine for high-speed driving. I often use it during the rainy season or when encountering sudden bad weather on long trips, but remember, using 4H on dry roads in sunny conditions increases fuel consumption by about 10% and may cause slightly stiff steering. Proper mode switching is key, with other modes like 2H or 4L corresponding to different scenarios.
After years of driving, I believe using 4H on highways is perfectly fine, especially in bad weather. This mode helps you maintain better control and higher safety in rain or snow. However, avoid using it in good weather as it increases fuel consumption and may cause tire wear. Simply put, just switch to it when you need extra traction.
