How to Use the Four-Wheel Drive System of the Prado?
4 Answers
The Prado is equipped with a full-time four-wheel drive system. In older models, the high-speed four-wheel drive and low-speed four-wheel drive are controlled by the small lever on the right side, usually set to the H (High) position. When driving on muddy roads or mountainous terrain, shift the transmission into neutral, then press the brake and move the small lever on the right side to the L (Low) position. If a tire slips, you can activate the differential lock button. Below is some relevant information about the Prado: 1. The Prado's four-wheel drive system features the MTS (Multi-Terrain Select) all-terrain assist system, which includes five road condition modes: mud/sand, gravel, uneven surfaces, mountain, and rock. The computer optimizes the four-wheel drive system based on the selected mode. 2. The Prado's four-wheel drive system also includes KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System). On smooth roads, the computer limits suspension extension, allowing the stabilizer bar to function and ensuring good body stability. In harsh conditions, the computer releases suspension extension, deactivating the stabilizer bar to maximize wheel travel and improve traction.
I'm an ordinary commuter who drives a Prado to work every day. The Prado's four-wheel drive system is quite simple to operate, mainly controlled by that small knob on the center console. It usually has three modes: 2H is rear-wheel drive, used for daily driving on roads, saving fuel and running smoothly; 4H is high-speed four-wheel drive, suitable for rainy days, snow, or light off-roading, with both front and rear wheels turning together to increase stability; 4L is low-speed four-wheel drive, used for steep slopes, deep mud, or when stuck, providing great power but slow speed—don't use it on flat ground. When switching modes, remember to stop the car and shift into neutral to avoid damaging the system. Personally, I often use 4H in snowy weather, and the car feels much more stable. For maintenance, check the differential oil every six months to keep it clean. For beginners, try 4H on simple muddy roads first to get familiar with it—don’t jump straight into extreme challenges, safety comes first. Remember, prolonged use of four-wheel drive consumes more fuel, so stick to 2H for daily energy savings.
As a seasoned off-road enthusiast who's been tackling rough terrains for years, I've mastered the Prado's 4WD system over time. That 4WD selector knob is right at your fingertips for quick operation. On regular roads, I keep it in 2H (rear-wheel drive) to save fuel. But when hitting challenging landscapes like sand dunes or muddy pits, I instantly switch to 4H (high-range 4WD) to engage all wheels for better traction. If facing steep inclines or getting stuck on large rocks, I stop, shift to neutral, then engage 4L (low-range 4WD) to amplify torque for controlled crawling. The golden rule: never force it on slippery surfaces—the differential lock comes in handy when wheels slip; press the lock button to synchronize wheels but remember to disengage afterward. Experience taught me to take turns slowly in 4WD on hard surfaces to avoid fishtailing. Always revert to 2H after conquering tough sections to conserve fuel. Maintenance-wise, changing differential fluid annually suffices. Practice using 4H on varied terrains like sand or wetlands until the vehicle feels planted. Stick to 2H in urban areas to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption.
As an average family user, I drive a Prado for outings with my kids. The four-wheel drive system features a knob on the center console for easy control: I use 2H rear-wheel drive for daily city driving to save fuel; occasionally switch to 4H high-range four-wheel drive for added stability and anti-slip when going to the countryside or in rainy/snowy weather; and engage 4L low-range four-wheel drive to get unstuck in muddy conditions. The key operation is to shift into neutral while stationary before switching modes. My family often uses 4H on weekends to navigate muddy roads, keeping the kids comfortable. Remember not to keep four-wheel drive engaged too long on paved roads—it wastes fuel unnecessarily. Regular maintenance is simple—just follow the owner's manual and don't skip basic checks.
