Can you drive in 4H all the time?
Four-wheel drive (4WD) systems are a fantastic feature for vehicles that need extra traction in challenging conditions, such as snow, mud, or off-road terrain. However, many drivers wonder whether it's safe or advisable to drive in 4H (4-wheel drive high) mode all the time. In this article, we’ll explore the purpose of 4H, when to use it, and why it’s not ideal for everyday driving.
What Is 4H and When Should You Use It?
4H, or 4-wheel drive high, is a mode in 4WD vehicles that provides power to all four wheels simultaneously. This mode is designed for driving at normal speeds in conditions where extra traction is needed, such as:
- Snowy or icy roads
- Muddy or slippery surfaces
- Gravel or loose dirt roads
In 4H mode, the vehicle distributes torque evenly between the front and rear axles, improving stability and grip. It’s particularly useful for maintaining control in low-traction environments while driving at moderate speeds.
Why You Shouldn’t Drive in 4H All the Time
While 4H is excellent for specific conditions, it’s not designed for continuous use on dry, paved roads. Here’s why:
- Increased Wear and Tear: Driving in 4H on dry pavement can cause unnecessary strain on your drivetrain components, including the transfer case, axles, and tires. This is because the system is not designed to handle the lack of slippage on high-traction surfaces.
- Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Engaging 4H increases the workload on your engine, leading to higher fuel consumption. For everyday driving, this can significantly impact your gas mileage.
- Handling Issues: On dry roads, 4H can make your vehicle harder to steer and maneuver, as the wheels are locked together and cannot rotate at different speeds during turns. This can lead to a phenomenon called "binding," which can damage your drivetrain.
When to Switch Back to 2H
For most driving conditions, 2H (2-wheel drive high) is the optimal mode. It provides power to only two wheels, reducing wear on your drivetrain and improving fuel efficiency. You should switch back to 2H when:
- The road is dry and traction is not an issue.
- You’re driving at highway speeds for extended periods.
- You no longer need the extra grip provided by 4H.
Most modern 4WD vehicles allow you to switch between 2H and 4H on the fly, making it easy to adapt to changing road conditions.
Conclusion
While 4H is a valuable tool for navigating challenging road conditions, it’s not meant for everyday use on dry, paved roads. Overusing 4H can lead to increased wear on your vehicle, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential handling issues. For regular driving, stick to 2H and save 4H for when you truly need it. If you’re unsure about how to use your vehicle’s 4WD system or have concerns about its performance, don’t hesitate to consult a trusted auto repair professional.
At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance and repair needs. Feel free to reach out to us for expert advice or to schedule a service appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can you drive in 4H auto?
0-55 mph
Can you drive in 4 hi all the time?
Car and Driver notes that 4WD is not meant to be used all the time. It's only for certain road types, including rugged terrain and off-roading, as well as slippery conditions, like snow or mud. Otherwise, 4WD vehicles should be driven in two-wheel drive, according to Car and Driver.
Is it bad to drive in 4WD on the highway?
The reason that you should never take your 4-wheel out on dry pavement is due to the drivetrain design, as it is not intended for high-traction surfaces. Instead, it better suits slippery and low traction off-road terrain where traction is limited, as this is the intended use of a 4×4 vehicle.
Can I turn on 4H while driving?
You can move the control from 2H to 4A or 4H at a stop or while driving.
Can you engage 4H while driving?
You can move the control from 2H to 4A or 4H at a stop or while driving. The information display may display a message indicating a 4X4 shift is in progress and the LED light for the selected mode flashes.
Is it okay to drive in a 4WD auto all the time?
Although not always optimal for efficiency and wear of your vehicle 4wd driveline, AUTOMATIC 4 HI can be used on any road condition without risk of damaging your vehicle.
Is it okay to switch from 4H to 2H while driving?
Yup, between 2H and 4H can be done any time as long as you're going straight and not on the throttle. Easiest shift from 4H to 2H will typically be while moving with just the lightest touch of throttle applied (just enough to negate engine braking).
Can a car always be in 4 wheel drive?
Four-wheel drive systems are part-time setups intended only for use off-road or on extremely slippery surfaces. Vehicles with these setups require the driver physically shift into and out of 4WD by turning a knob, pushing a button, or yanking a lever.
Is it OK to drive in 4H on the highway?
4H provides electronically locked four-wheel drive power to front and rear wheels. The information display will display 4H when this mode is selected. This mode is not recommended for use on dry pavement. This mode is only intended for severe winter or off-road conditions, such as deep snow, ice or shallow sand.
Is it bad to drive in 4H on the highway?
Do not use 4H or 4L on dry, hard surfaced roads. Doing so will produce excessive noise, increase tire wear and may damage drive components. 4H or 4L modes are only intended for consistently slippery or loose surfaces.
