How to Use the Four-Wheel Drive on the Prado?

[DeEmmett]

Here is how to use the four-wheel drive on the Prado: 1. Select the H4F full-time four-wheel drive mode button on the center console, and the engine power will be distributed 40% to the front and 60% to the rear. 2. When encountering complex road conditions, choose the H4L high-speed four-wheel drive lock mode, which ensures equal power distribution to both front and rear wheels. Below is additional information on the differences between four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive vehicles: 1. Power performance: Four-wheel drive offers better power performance than two-wheel drive. 2. Handling: Front-wheel drive in two-wheel drive vehicles tends to understeer, while rear-wheel drive tends to oversteer; four-wheel drive provides better handling. 3. Off-road capability: Four-wheel drive has better off-road capability than two-wheel drive. 4. Cost: The transmission structure of four-wheel drive is more complex, resulting in higher manufacturing costs, and the transmission components require maintenance, whereas two-wheel drive vehicles have lower maintenance costs.

[McJordan]

I've been driving a Prado for several years and frequently go off-roading. The four-wheel-drive system is very simple to operate. There's a rotary knob on the lower left side of the steering wheel with modes 2H, 4H, and 4L. For city driving, I use 2H to save fuel and hassle. Once I encounter sand or mud pits, I stop the car, shift to N, and turn to 4H—this engages all four wheels for superior traction. If facing steep slopes or deep mud, I stop, shift to N, and switch to 4L (low-range gear ratio) for high torque to escape easily. Some top-trim models even have a differential lock button; engaging it stabilizes the rear wheels further. But remember, never use 4L or lock the differential on hard, dry roads, as it can damage the drivetrain. After each off-road trip, I check if the knob moves smoothly and listen for unusual noises. This trick has helped me navigate mountain adventures safely.

[DelCarmen]

I usually drive my Prado in 2H mode for daily use – rear-wheel drive is sufficient and fuel-efficient. When encountering rainy, snowy, or slippery roads, I find an open space to stop, shift to neutral, and quickly switch to 4H mode. The system automatically distributes power to all four wheels, allowing for stable driving. I also use 4H continuously on highways to prevent skidding. However, avoid prolonged use of 4H in dry conditions, as it increases wear and fuel consumption. In icy winter conditions, switching to 4H gives me peace of mind, preventing the vehicle from sliding when starting. Be careful not to touch the differential lock button unless you're truly stuck in mud. Every month, I perform a simple test to ensure the 4WD system responds properly and the buttons aren't stuck. The operation is straightforward and easy to learn.

[VonLawson]

I recently bought a Prado, and a friend taught me how to use the four-wheel drive. There's a knob in the car to select between 2H, 4H, and 4L modes. Normally, just use 2H for driving. When switching to four-wheel drive, first stop the car on a flat surface and shift into neutral. Choose 4H for enhanced traction on snow or muddy roads, and 4L for climbing or sandy terrain to provide low torque. After switching, gently press the accelerator to confirm power distribution. Avoid using 4L mode on regular hard roads as it can damage the vehicle. Pay attention to the dashboard indicators showing the current mode. The operation is basically just a few steps, and you can get the hang of it after trying once.