Can the Prado use H4F during normal driving?
2 Answers
Prado can use H4F during normal driving. H4F is the default four-wheel drive mode of the Prado and is used for daily urban road driving. Full-time four-wheel drive operation of H4F: All four wheels have driving force, and the four wheels can rotate at different speeds. Switching between H4F and H4L does not require stopping the vehicle and is not restricted by speed; it can be done as long as the engine is running. Other drive modes: H4L high-speed four-wheel drive: In high-speed four-wheel drive mode, both the front and rear differentials are locked, causing all four wheels to rotate at the same speed. This prevents situations where a lifted wheel spins rapidly while a stuck wheel does not rotate. When selecting the H4L high-speed four-wheel drive lock mode, the Torsen limited-slip differential in the center locks, connecting the front and rear axles. This function locks the power distribution between the front and rear wheels at 50% each. This mode is suitable for low-traction surfaces such as rain, snow, gravel, or light off-road terrain. Low-speed four-wheel drive is generally used in slippery conditions like mud or swamps. Low-speed four-wheel drive reduces speed through a gear mechanism to increase torque.
I've been driving a Prado for three years, and the H4F mode is designed for daily use on regular paved roads. I use this mode for commuting and highway driving, where the rear wheels are the main drive with the front wheels providing timely assistance, making steering light and fuel-efficient. It's perfectly fine to use H4F on rainy asphalt roads or urban concrete roads, but be cautious on gravel surfaces as they can be slippery. In such cases, although you don't need to switch modes, you should control the throttle more gently. Long-term use of this mode doesn't harm the vehicle—my transfer case is still smooth after 100,000 kilometers. Remember not to stomp on the throttle when turning the steering wheel to full lock, especially on smooth surfaces like underground parking lots in winter, as it can strain the drivetrain.