Are Ford Expeditions 4 wheel drive?

Yes. Ford Expeditions can be equipped with four-wheel drive. Many model years and trims offer 4WD as an option, while some configurations use rear-wheel drive (RWD) as the baseline.

Across recent generations, the Expedition has been offered in both drivetrain setups. The 4WD variants provide enhanced traction in rain, snow, mud, and off-road conditions, and they typically include a two-speed transfer case and multiple drive modes. Availability depends on the model year and trim level, so buyers should verify the exact specifications for the vehicle they are considering.

Drivetrain options

Availability by year and trim

The following describes the typical drivetrain configurations you may encounter when shopping for a Ford Expedition. In short, 4WD is common but not universal; always check the build sheet or window sticker for the exact setup.

• 4x4 with a two-speed transfer case, enabling high-range for regular driving and low-range for challenging terrain, giving extra traction when needed.


• Rear-wheel drive (2WD) configurations, which are common on base models and tend to offer lower upfront cost and slightly better highway fuel economy.

In practice, whether your Expedition has 4WD depends on the trim and year. If you want four-wheel drive, verify the drivetrain on the window sticker or in the vehicle’s specifications.

What 4WD means for driving and ownership

Understanding the 4WD setup helps with buying decisions, maintenance planning, and daily usage. The 4WD system is designed to improve traction in adverse conditions and to assist with towing and off-road capability, while the 2WD configuration prioritizes efficiency and lower cost.

Summary

Ford Expeditions can be found with either 4WD or RWD, depending on the model year and trim. If you need enhanced traction for snow, rain, mud, or off-road driving, a 4WD Expedition is likely the right choice. For drivers who mostly stay on pavement and want lower cost or better fuel economy, a 2WD version may be more appropriate. Always confirm the exact drivetrain configuration before purchase.

How to turn on 4WD Ford Expedition?

To put a Ford Expedition in 4WD, use the 4WD control button or dial on the instrument panel or center console to select the desired mode, such as 4-Auto, 4-High, or 4-Low. You can shift to 4-Auto, 4-High, or 4-Low at normal driving speeds, but the vehicle must be stopped with the transmission in Neutral to shift into 4-Low.
 
This video explains the different drive modes and how to change them in a Ford Expedition: 58sDIY PintoYouTube · Sep 19, 2025
For 4-Auto, 4-High, or 4-Low 

1. Locate the 4WD control switch or dial: on the instrument panel or center console. 
2. Select your desired mode: 
   • 4-Auto: Automatically engages 4WD when needed for on-road conditions like snow or wet surfaces. 
   • 4-High: For slippery conditions or trails, like dirt roads. 
   • 4-Low: For low-speed situations requiring maximum torque, such as deep snow, mud, or sand. 

For 4-Low only

1. Stop the vehicle completely . 
2. Shift the transmission to Neutral (N) . 
3. Press the 4L button: on the control switch. 
4. Confirm the shift: The cluster will display a message, and the lights on the control switch will flash while the system engages. 
5. Once engaged, you can shift back into drive if needed, but remember that 4L is not intended for use on dry pavement. 

How do I know if I have 4WD or AWD?

You can tell if a car has 4WD or AWD by looking for badges on the exterior, checking the VIN or owner's manual, inspecting the undercarriage for a rear differential and driveshaft, or looking for a dashboard light or "AWD lock" button on the center console. 
This video demonstrates how to identify the drivetrain by looking at the undercarriage: 56sMotorCarNutYouTube · Nov 16, 2021
Exterior and interior checks

• Look for badges: Many vehicles have "4WD," "4x4," or "AWD" badges on the back, sides, or doors. 
• Check the dashboard: Some cars have an "AWD" light that illuminates briefly during startup. You may also find an "AWD lock" button on the center console, which allows the driver to manually engage the system. 

This video explains how to check for a four-wheel drive switch or a dashboard light: 59sMake It Easy MechanicYouTube · Mar 11, 2020
Mechanical and technical checks

• Look underneath the car: The most definitive way is to look at the undercarriage. 
  • 4WD/AWD: If there is a driveshaft running to the rear and a differential in the center of the rear axle, the car has 4WD or AWD. 
  • Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): If there is no driveshaft or rear differential, it is FWD. 
• Check the VIN: The Vehicle Identification Number can be used to look up the exact specifications of the car, including its drivetrain. 
• Consult the owner's manual: The owner's manual will clearly state the type of drivetrain the vehicle is equipped with. 

This video shows how to distinguish between FWD, RWD, and AWD by looking for the driveshaft and rear axle: 1mTowMan127YouTube · May 17, 2025

Are Ford Expeditions good in the snow?

On mixed snow, slush, and ice through the mountains, the Expedition proved incredibly sure-footed despite wearing a positively awful set of all-season tires. Its excellent stability control system combines with the automatic four-wheel drive to keep the truck planted even on slippery, changing surfaces.

Are Ford Explorers 4x4 or AWD?

The Ford Explorer comes with an "Intelligent 4WD" system, which functions like an advanced AWD system and is a different system than traditional part-time 4WD. It automatically sends power to all four wheels as needed but is designed for improved fuel efficiency by defaulting to rear-wheel drive under normal conditions. This advanced system is not a choice between AWD and 4WD, but rather the "4WD" it offers is a highly automated, modern AWD system. 
Intelligent 4WD system details

• Function: The system uses sensors to monitor conditions like wheel speed, steering, and acceleration to determine the optimal power distribution between the front and rear wheels. 
• Normal operation: Under normal driving conditions, power is sent to the rear wheels to increase fuel efficiency. 
• Slippery conditions: It automatically directs more torque to the front wheels when it detects a loss of traction, which is useful for winter driving or off-road situations. 
• User input: You don't have to manually switch modes, as the system automatically adjusts itself based on driving situations. Some models also include a Terrain Management System with selectable modes like "Slippery" and "Deep Snow/Sand" that further optimize performance for various conditions.