How do you turn on 4 wheel drive on a Ford Explorer?

In modern Ford Explorers, you typically don’t manually flip a simple 4x4 switch. Intelligent 4WD engages automatically, and you select specific drive modes to optimize traction. If your model supports it, you can also engage a dedicated 4WD High or 4WD Low option under certain conditions. Here’s how to use the system effectively and safely.

Understanding Ford Explorer's 4WD System

The Explorer uses an Intelligent 4WD system that monitors wheel speed and grip in real time, distributing torque between front and rear wheels as needed. A Terrain Management or Drive Modes system lets you tailor throttle response, transmission shifts, and traction logic for different surfaces. On many trims, there isn’t a separate “4WD” lever to pull; instead you choose a mode on the console or touchscreen that leverages the automatic AWD logic. Some older or off-road–focused configurations may include a 4WD Low option, which is intended for slow, extreme conditions and not high-speed highway driving. Always refer to your year and trim’s owner manual for exact controls.

Automatic Intelligent 4WD vs Manual Drive Modes

Most Ford Explorers with Intelligent 4WD rely on automatic engagement that activates when loss of traction is detected. To maximize traction on slippery or uneven surfaces, you select a drive mode such as Snow/Wet or another traction-oriented setting. If your model includes a traditional 4WD Low, it is designed for low-speed, high-torque situations and has specific engagement steps.

How to Engage 4WD on a Typical Ford Explorer

Below are the general steps for models equipped with Intelligent 4WD and a Drive Modes selector. The exact labels and sequence can vary by year and trim, so consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.

• Start the engine and keep the transmission in Park; ensure the vehicle is stationary and your foot is on the brake before changing drive modes.


• Use the Drive Mode selector on the center console (the dial or touchscreen) to choose a mode that uses Intelligent 4WD, such as Snow/Wet or Slippery/Traction. Some trims label this as 4WD Auto or a similar option; the goal is to optimize traction rather than manually lock a transfer case.


• Drive away slowly. The system will automatically transfer torque to the axle with the most grip as needed. Look for an indicator on the instrument cluster confirming the active mode (e.g., 4WD Auto or Snow/Wet).


• If your Explorer offers a 4WD Low (4L) setting for extreme off-road conditions, bring the vehicle to a near stop, shift to Neutral, and select 4L from the drivetrain control. Not all models include 4L, and it should be used at very low speeds on difficult terrain.


• To return to normal driving, switch the Drive Mode selector back to Normal or Automatic 2WD/Auto, depending on your model. The system will revert to standard operation automatically once you exit the low-traction conditions.

In day-to-day driving, most Explorers with Intelligent 4WD handle traction automatically, and you rarely need to manually engage anything beyond selecting a mode that matches the surface conditions.

Safety and Practical Tips

- Always move slowly and smoothly when switching drive modes, especially when conditions are slick or uneven. Abrupt inputs can upset vehicle balance.

- Do not rely on 4WD Low for high-speed driving; it is intended for slow, controlled movement over challenging terrain.

- If you’re unsure which mode to select, start with Snow/Wet or Slippery/Traction and adjust as needed based on how the vehicle responds.

- Check your owner's manual for model-year specifics, as control layouts and available modes can change between trims and updates.

Summary

Most Ford Explorers with Intelligent 4WD don’t require a manual 4WD engagement. You select drive modes (such as Snow/Wet or Slippery) to optimize traction, and the system automatically distributes power where it’s needed. If your model includes a 4WD Low option, use it only at very low speeds and only when necessary, following the manual’s instructions. For ongoing guidance, always refer to your specific year and trim’s owner manual or consult a Ford dealer.

How do I turn on 4 wheel drive?

To turn on four-wheel drive, use the 4WD selector (button, knob, or lever) in your vehicle, which can be found on the dashboard or center console. For "4-High" or "Auto," you can usually shift while moving by slowing down and selecting the desired mode. For "4-Low," you must stop the vehicle, put it in neutral, and then shift the transfer case. 
For 4-High (on-the-fly shifting) 

• Find your selector: Locate the 4WD controls, which are usually a knob, button, or lever on the dashboard or center console. 
• Slow down: Reduce your speed to between 50-55 mph or less, depending on your vehicle. Shifting is often easier when moving, as long as you are in a straight line. 
• Shift into 4-High: Select "4H" or "4WD High." The indicator light on your dashboard will flash until the shift is complete, at which point it will stop flashing. 
• Note: Do not use 4-High on dry pavement, as this can damage the drivetrain. 

For 4-Low (requires a stop) 

• Stop the vehicle: Come to a complete stop in a straight line. 
• Press the brake and shift to neutral: Keep your foot on the brake and move the gear selector to Neutral. 
• Shift to 4-Low: Press and turn the knob or move the lever to the "4L" or "4-Low" position. 
• Confirm the shift: The indicator lights for "4L" and potentially "VSC OFF" will illuminate on your dashboard when the shift is complete. 
• Note: 4-Low is for low-speed, high-torque situations like climbing steep hills, rock crawling, or driving through very deep mud or snow. 

This video explains how to operate the 4WD system in a Chevrolet truck: 52sChevroletYouTube · Feb 14, 2023
If your vehicle has a manual lever

• Stop the vehicle: Some older 4WD systems require the vehicle to be completely stopped, with the transmission in Park or Neutral. 
• Engage the lever: Move the lever from the 2WD position to the 4H or 4L position, depending on your needs. 
• Note: Check your owner's manual for specific instructions, as manual systems can differ significantly from electronic ones. 

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.

How to put a Ford Explorer in 4 wheel drive?

You should also use normal mode when towing a trailer. Here's a quick note though cruise control is available only in normal and snow modes.

How to change drive mode in Ford Explorer?

Drive Mode Control - Selecting a Drive Mode
Rotate the drive mode dial on the center console to select or change a drive mode. To select drive modes for RWD vehicles use the console mounted control.