How do I put my Ford Explorer in 4 wheel drive?
Most Ford Explorers use a drive-mode selector to engage four-wheel drive. In everyday conditions, you’ll typically choose Auto 4WD (4A) or 4WD High (4H); for difficult terrain, you may use 4WD Low (4L). Exact steps can vary by year and trim, so consult your owner’s manual if in doubt.
What the 4WD options mean
Ford often partitions four-wheel-drive capability into several modes. Understanding what each one does helps you pick the right setting for the conditions you face.
- 2WD (Two-Wheel Drive): Power goes to two wheels for normal, efficient highway driving.
- 4A (Auto 4WD): The system automatically distributes power to the front wheels as needed for grip, with no driver input required.
- 4H (4WD High): Locks torque to all four wheels for better traction on slippery surfaces at higher speeds.
- 4L (4WD Low): Low-range gearing for maximum torque at very low speeds, ideal for deep snow, mud, sand, or steep terrain.
Note: Not every Explorer year and trim ships with identical controls. Some models use a drive-mode dial or button cluster instead of a traditional transfer-case lever. Always verify the control type on your specific vehicle and follow the prompts on the instrument cluster.
When to use each mode
Choose the mode based on driving conditions and terrain. Use 4A or 4H on wet or snowy roads, muddy trails, or loose gravel. Switch to 4L only when you need maximum torque at crawl speeds, such as deep mud or steep, rough grades.
How to engage 4WD on most Explorers
Follow these steps to switch into four-wheel drive. If your model uses a rotary drive-mode knob or push-button controls, the names (2WD, 4A, 4H, 4L) appear on the display in place of the exact labels below.
- Start the engine and make sure the vehicle is on a stable surface. For 4L, you’ll typically need to be at a near-stop.
- Move the drive-mode control to the desired setting:
- To gain automatic traction as conditions demand, select 4A.
- To lock into four-wheel drive for higher-grip situations while moving, select 4H.
- To maximize torque at low speeds, come to a stop and select 4L (many models require Neutral or Park for this step).
- Wait for any confirmation lights or messages on the instrument cluster indicating the system is engaged.
- Drive carefully. If conditions improve, you can shift back to 2WD or 4A as appropriate.
Disengaging 4WD is typically straightforward: return the drive-mode control to 2WD or 4A, depending on your conditions and model.
Engagement notes
Some Explorers use a separate transfer-case lever, others use a drive-mode knob or a push-button. If you’re unsure how your specific model handles 4WD, consult the owner’s manual or contact a Ford dealer for a quick walkthrough.
Safety tips and best practices
- Avoid using 4WD on dry, paved roads. It can cause drivetrain binding and increased tire wear.
- Check tires for even wear and proper pressure; mismatched tires can hamper traction in 4WD.
- Turn off TRAC/ESC to avoid interference in extreme off-road conditions if your vehicle’s system recommends it for certain maneuvers.
- Be gentle with throttle when engaging 4L to prevent abrupt loading of the drivetrain.
If you experience resistance or warnings when trying to engage 4WD, stop safely and consult the manual. Some vehicles require specific speeds or gear positions to change modes, and a malfunction indicator could require service.
Troubleshooting and what to do if it won’t shift
Common issues include a misunderstood control input, a degraded battery that affects electronics, or a sensor fault indicated by the dashboard. Steps to take include ensuring the vehicle is adequately supported on a level surface, checking the user manual for exact engagement criteria, and if problems persist, scheduling service with a Ford dealer or qualified mechanic.
Summary
Engaging four-wheel drive on a Ford Explorer centers on selecting the correct drive-mode setting—Auto 4WD (4A) for automatic traction, 4WD High (4H) for slippery conditions at higher speeds, and 4WD Low (4L) for maximum torque at crawl speeds. The exact method depends on your year and trim, so always refer to your owner’s manual for precise steps. With the right mode and prudent driving, four-wheel drive can improve traction in rain, snow, mud, and uneven terrain, while preserving safety and drivetrain integrity.
Is the Ford Explorer 4 wheel drive or all-wheel drive?
Ford Explorer
Available with intelligent 4WD as an option, the Explorer gives drivers the confidence to tackle challenging weather conditions and uneven terrain.
How do I turn on four-wheel drive?
A message display on the driver. Information center will indicate the shift has been made. To shift to four low your vehicle must be in neutral with the ignition.
How to put Ford Explorer in snow mode?
On most Ford models, rotate the drive mode dial on the center console until you reach “Snow” or “Slippery” mode. Your instrument cluster display will update to show Snow Mode's activated settings, including changes to traction and stability controls.
Is the Ford Explorer 4WD always on?
The intelligent 4WD system continuously monitors vehicle conditions and adjusts the power distribution between the front and rear wheels. It combines transparent all-surface operation with highly capable four-wheel drive. The 4WD system is always active and requires no driver input.
