How to Operate the Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD?

[Harley]

Here are the operation methods for the Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD: 1. On normal road surfaces, it generally drives in rear-wheel drive mode. 2. In cases of poor road conditions or when the drive wheels slip, the computer will automatically detect and naturally switch to four-wheel drive mode. Below is extended information on the types of 4WD: 1. Part-time 4WD: A four-wheel drive system where the driver can manually choose between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. 2. On-demand 4WD: A four-wheel drive system that activates only when appropriate, otherwise remaining in two-wheel drive. 3. Full-time 4WD: A system where all wheels are independently driven at all times while the vehicle is in motion.

[Millie]

I've been driving the Outlander 4WD for three years, and the daily operation is actually quite simple. After starting the car, look at the silver knob on the center console labeled 2WD, 4WD AUTO, and 4WD LOCK. For city driving, use 2WD to save fuel. When encountering rain or gravel roads, turn it to 4WD AUTO—the system will automatically distribute power, significantly improving traction. If you're driving on muddy mountain roads or get stuck in snow, you must stop and switch to 4WD LOCK, which hard-links the front and rear axles for powerful off-road performance. Remember to switch back to AUTO or 2WD when returning to paved roads to avoid overheating the drivetrain. Don’t use LOCK mode on highways, as switching above 60 km/h may cause jerking. In winter, I always switch to AUTO before entering underground garages to prevent slipping on slopes.

[Poppy]

During my last self-driving trip to Western Sichuan, I specifically tested the Outlander's 4WD system. The 2WD mode is suitable for highway cruising, but when encountering gravel slopes, I immediately switched to 4WD AUTO. This mode works like an intelligent butler, with the rear wheels engaging instantly when the front wheels slip. On snow-covered sections at an altitude of 4,000 meters, I switched to 4WD LOCK to climb continuous steep slopes—remember to shift while stationary, as switching while driving may damage the transfer case. In LOCK mode, the steering wheel becomes slightly heavier, so turn slowly on icy roads. After exiting rough terrain, I immediately switched back to AUTO, only feeling relieved after hearing the drivetrain click into place. Tire pressure is also crucial; I usually reduce it to 2.3bar on unpaved roads to increase the contact area.

[Stevie]

Northern car owner teaches you how to operate 4WD in snow: In the morning, directly turn to 4WD AUTO mode when starting the car, and the green 4WD light will illuminate on the dashboard. Driving on compacted snow is very stable, but when encountering uncleared deep snow areas, be sure to stop and switch to 4WD LOCK. After locking, avoid stomping on the throttle; gently apply pressure to allow the electronic limited slip to engage. When turning, note that LOCK mode reduces front wheel flexibility, so slow down before corners. During that -20°C occasion, LOCK mode helped me escape an ice pit, but I switched back to AUTO after two kilometers to prevent the central differential from overheating. On the highway back, always switch to 2WD, which can reduce fuel consumption from 11L to 8L.