How to Activate the Four-Wheel Drive in Pajero?
4 Answers
To activate the four-wheel drive in Pajero, you need to shift the small gear lever to the four-wheel drive position. Here is the relevant introduction about the four-wheel drive: 1. Introduction to the Four-Wheel Drive Lever: The options are H2H4H4LL4L. All modes with the number 4 are four-wheel drive modes, and you can choose different modes according to different situations. 2. Position of the Four-Wheel Drive Lever: Located next to the gear shift lever, there is a smaller lever, which is the four-wheel drive lever. 3. Mode Introduction: (1) H2 Gear: Rear-wheel drive mode, suitable for well-paved roads, mainly for fuel efficiency. (2) H4 Gear: Full-time four-wheel drive, specifically designed for slippery conditions like rain or snow on paved roads, enhancing grip on slippery surfaces. (3) H4L Gear: Provides low-torque four-wheel drive effect for long-distance, less steep muddy, bumpy, or loose gravel roads that are more challenging. (4) L4L: Used when climbing steep slopes that require additional power, providing high-torque four-wheel drive effect, commonly used for uphill driving.
Engaging the Pajero's four-wheel drive is actually quite simple, and I often use it during rainy or snowy weather or when camping in the wild. Generally, the Pajero has a 4WD selector knob near the dashboard. After getting in the car, make sure the vehicle is stationary. For manual transmissions, shift to neutral, and for automatic transmissions, select park or neutral. Avoid switching while driving to prevent damage to the drivetrain. Then, turn the knob: 2H is rear-wheel drive, suitable for paved roads and fuel efficiency; 4H is full-time four-wheel drive, ideal for slippery or slightly inclined roads; 4HLC is high-range four-wheel drive with a locked center differential, distributing power evenly between front and rear wheels, used for mud or gravel roads; 4LLC is low-range four-wheel drive with locked center differential, providing amplified torque for steep slopes or deep mud. After selecting the mode, drive off slowly. I recommend regularly checking the knob and wiring to prevent jamming. If it becomes unresponsive, visit a dealership for repairs—safety first.
The key to driving a Pajero 4WD is selecting the appropriate mode for different road conditions, as I've learned from my experience in off-road clubs. First, after getting in the car, stop and shift to neutral, then locate the rotary knob: set it to 2H for daily driving on paved roads to save fuel; 4H works well for snowy or light rainy days; 4HLC prevents slipping on gravel or muddy terrain; 4LLC provides strong torque for steep slopes or sand dunes, but avoid prolonged use on asphalt roads to prevent overheating and system damage. Be patient when operating—turn the knob to the desired position and wait for the light to illuminate before moving. I also make it a habit to check tire pressure and wheel condition before setting off to ensure even 4WD engagement and avoid axle damage from misalignment. For tough terrain, combining 4LLC with differential lock yields even better results.
I just bought a used Pajero and picked up 4WD driving pretty quickly. After stopping the car and shifting to neutral, turn the knob near the steering wheel: selecting 2H means two-wheel drive for regular roads; 4H is all-wheel drive for better anti-slip performance; 4HLC and 4LLC can lock the front and rear power distribution, making them more suitable for climbing hills or mud pits—just remember not to use 4LLC on dry roads due to its high torque at low speeds. The operation is simple: after turning the knob, wait for the indicator light to come on. Avoid switching modes suddenly while driving, as it can cause issues. The first time I used it, I forgot to stop the car and the knob got stuck—it took me half an hour to fix it. I recommend beginners read the user manual carefully or practice with a friend.
