Can I drive in a VTM-4 lock?
You can, but only at very low speeds and on slippery surfaces. VTM-4 Lock is not intended for dry pavement or high-speed driving, and keeping it engaged longer than necessary can stress the drivetrain.
What VTM-4 Lock does
VTM-4 (Variable Torque Management 4-Wheel Drive) is Honda’s all-wheel-drive system that actively controls torque distribution between the front and rear wheels to maximize traction. When you press the LOCK switch (where equipped), the center differential is locked to force an equal torque split (roughly 50/50) between front and rear axles. This provides improved traction in low-traction conditions such as snow, ice, mud, or loose sand. It should only be used at low speeds and not on dry pavement, as the fixed torque split can cause drivetrain binding during tight steering on high-traction surfaces. The exact behavior can vary by model year, so consult your owner's manual for specifics.
When to use VTM-4 Lock
Use VTM-4 Lock only when you are in a situation that demands maximum traction at low speed. The following guidelines apply across most Honda/Acura models with VTM-4:
- On snow, ice, mud, or loose sand where extra traction is needed.
- At slow speeds, typically below about 25 mph (40 km/h), unless your manual specifies a different limit.
- When wheel slip is evident and you cannot regain traction with gentle throttle or braking alone.
Once traction improves or you exit the low-traction area, disengage VTM-4 Lock and return to normal AWD operation.
Do's and Don'ts of VTM-4 Lock
Follow these practical considerations to protect the drivetrain and maintain safe handling.
- Do engage Lock only on low-traction surfaces and at or below the recommended speed.
- Do not use Lock on dry pavement or high-traction roads, where it can cause drivetrain binding and tire scrubbing.
- Do not attempt to steer aggressively or drive at highway speeds with Lock engaged.
- Do listen for unusual noises or vibrations; if you feel binding, reduce speed and disengage.
Remember: VTM-4 Lock is a traction aid, not a substitute for appropriate driving technique. Always follow the owner's manual for your specific vehicle year and model.
How to engage and manage VTM-4 Lock
Engagement is typically via a dedicated LOCK switch or by selecting a Lock option through the vehicle’s driver information cluster, depending on the model. In most cases, lock is intended to be engaged at very low speeds or when the vehicle is stationary in a low-traction environment. If you exceed the speed limit or the system detects unfavorable conditions, it may disengage automatically. After exiting the slippery surface, disengage Lock to avoid unnecessary drivetrain load.
Model-specific notes
Some Honda and Acura models with VTM-4 may not offer a manually selectable Lock in all trims or years. In many cases the system engages automatically and may revert to standard AWD when traction improves. Always refer to your owner's manual for exact procedures and limitations for your model-year.
Summary
VTM-4 Lock can improve traction in low-traction environments, but it should be used only at low speeds and on slippery surfaces. It is not designed for dry pavement or high-speed driving, and should be disengaged as soon as traction returns. Always consult your vehicle’s manual for exact speed limits and engagement procedures for your specific model and year.
