What Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Low-Range Four-Wheel Drive?
2 Answers
Precautions for low-range four-wheel drive include: the vehicle must be stopped and shifted into neutral before engaging low-range four-wheel drive; turns should be made as gently as possible; and low-range four-wheel drive should only be used on unpaved roads. Below is an introduction to the functions of different four-wheel drive system modes: 1. Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive: The front and rear wheels always maintain a four-wheel drive mode, with the engine's output torque distributed 50:50 between the front and rear wheels during driving. Full-time four-wheel drive offers excellent driving control and tracking performance, but it is less fuel-efficient and not as economical. 2. Part-Time Four-Wheel Drive: The driver can switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes by engaging or disengaging the transfer case based on road conditions. This is the most common drive mode for general off-road vehicles or 4WD SUVs. 3. Automatic Four-Wheel Drive: The drive mode is controlled by the computer. Normally, the vehicle operates in (front) rear-wheel drive on regular roads. If the road conditions are poor or the drive wheels slip, the computer automatically detects this and immediately redistributes the engine's output torque to the other two wheels, switching to four-wheel drive mode. This system is simple to operate.
Low-range 4WD is a great feature—super handy for muddy trails or climbing hills, but you’ve got to use it wisely. I used to do a lot of off-roading in my Jeep up in the mountains and learned the hard way: always come to a complete stop and shift into neutral before engaging it. Never try to switch while moving, or you’ll risk jamming the transfer case. Keep your speed under 15 mph—any faster, and the aggressive tire grip can make turns risky, especially on sand or snowy slopes. On slippery surfaces, ease into the throttle gently to maintain control. And don’t forget to disengage it afterward—leaving it on too long on flat roads can overheat the differential lock, and repairs are pricey. Check tire pressure regularly; low pressure weakens 4WD performance. I’d also recommend upgrading to all-terrain tires for better traction. Newbies should practice with an experienced guide—safety first.
