What do 4H and 4L mean in four-wheel drive vehicles?
1 Answers
In four-wheel drive vehicles, 4H stands for high-range four-wheel drive, while 4L stands for low-range four-wheel drive. The full name of 4H is 4WD-HIGH, which is used for quickly traversing uneven terrain. The full name of 4L is 4WD-LOW, which is used for low-speed passage through extreme off-road sections. Below are the detailed explanations: 4H: High-range four-wheel drive, suitable for high-speed driving on paved roads, rain or snow-covered surfaces, and can also handle most off-road conditions. It significantly improves stability, traction, and handling, but compared to 2H, it increases fuel consumption. N: The neutral position of the transfer case, equivalent to the neutral position of the transmission. It serves as a transition and buffer when switching driving modes. Placing it in this gear during towing can prevent damage to components. 4L: Low-range four-wheel drive mode. Generally, this mode is available in part-time four-wheel drive systems and some vehicles with strong off-road capabilities, such as the Wrangler, G-Class, and Land Rover Defender. In this mode, torque is amplified through a smaller gear ratio. Some models will automatically lock the central differential lock, rear differential lock, and various electronic assistance systems in this mode. 4L is an option for high-intensity off-roading. For models with 4L and locking differentials, driving on surfaces with good traction in this mode can cause handling difficulties and component damage, and its use is prohibited.
