How to turn on 4WD in Ford Explorer?

Most Ford Explorers today use an electronic 4WD system controlled from the center console. To engage four-wheel drive, you typically select 4WD Auto (4A) for on-demand traction, and you may switch to 4WD High (4H) for added traction on slick surfaces or light off-road, or to 4WD Low (4L) for maximum torque at low speeds in challenging terrain. Exact steps and labels can vary by model year, so consult your owner's manual for your specific trim.

Understanding the 4WD options in the Explorer

A quick look at the common 4WD modes found in recent Explorers helps you choose the right setting for conditions.

• 4A / Auto 4WD: The system monitors road conditions and distributes torque as needed, typically without driver input beyond selecting the mode.


• 4H / High-Range 4WD: Provides torque to all wheels for enhanced traction on snow, ice, rain-soaked roads, or light off-road. Can usually be engaged while driving at moderate speeds, depending on model year.


• 4L / Low-Range 4WD: Delivers maximum torque at low speed for steep climbs, deep snow, sand, or rock crawling. Usually requires a stopped vehicle or near stop and shifting the transmission to Neutral or Park, depending on model year.

Understanding these options helps you pick the appropriate mode when approaching varying conditions. Always verify with the instrument cluster indicators and your manual.

Step-by-step: Engaging 4WD modes on common Explorer models

Use these general steps as a guide. The exact controls—whether a rotary knob, a push button, or a drive-mode dial—can vary by year and trim.

Engaging 4WD Auto (4A)

4A is designed for everyday driving on mixed surfaces. The system engages automatically as needed; driver input is minimal beyond selecting the mode.

• With the vehicle on and in a drive state (or parked, depending on your model), locate the 4WD control on the center console or steering wheel (often labeled 4A, Auto 4WD, or part of a drive-mode selector).


• Select 4A / Auto 4WD. The instrument cluster will confirm the mode with an indicator or icon.


• Drive as usual; the system will transfer torque to the front and rear axles as traction changes.

Concluding note: 4A is convenient for daily driving where road conditions vary, and it typically requires no special procedures beyond selecting the mode.

Engaging 4WD High (4H)

4H is used for slick pavement, snow, or loose surfaces when you need more traction without sacrificing speed.

• Ensure your vehicle is at a safe driving speed and on a surface where extra traction is needed; locate the 4WD control.


• Shift or rotate the control to 4H / High-Range 4WD. Some models require the vehicle to be moving slowly or at a standstill.


• Confirm that the 4H indicator appears on the instrument cluster. You can continue driving; torque is distributed to all wheels as needed.

Concluding note: If you are transitioning from 2WD to 4H, ease into the setting and monitor the vehicle's response; avoid rapid acceleration on low-traction surfaces.

Engaging 4WD Low (4L)

4L provides maximum torque at very low speeds for challenging terrain or extreme conditions such as steep climbs and deep snow. This mode is more restrictive and requires careful use.

• Prepare for low-speed operation: bring the vehicle to a near stop if required by your model, and ensure you are in Neutral or Park as instructed.


• Move the control to 4L / Low-Range 4WD. Some systems require you to shift the transmission to Neutral first; others allow direct selection.


• After engagement, move to Drive slowly and focus on throttle control; verify that the 4L indicator is illuminated.

Concluding note: Use 4L only in situations demanding maximum torque at low speed; revert to 2WD or 4A when conditions improve and you can drive normally.

Safety reminders and maintenance tips

Engaging 4WD improves traction but does not replace cautious driving. Avoid using 4WD Low on dry pavement, and remember that fuel economy will decrease in 4WD modes. If your vehicle lacks an obvious 4WD control or you’re unsure about your model year, consult the owner’s manual or contact a Ford dealer for model-specific guidance.

Summary

Engaging 4WD in a Ford Explorer involves choosing the appropriate mode on the center-console drive-mode control. 4A (Auto) handles most conditions automatically, 4H provides added traction for slippery surfaces, and 4L delivers maximum torque at low speeds for challenging terrain. Always verify with the vehicle’s indicators and refer to the owner’s manual for your exact year and trim. With the right mode, you’ll improve stability and confidence in adverse conditions while staying within the recommended operating limits.

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 use 4 wheel drive on Ford Explorer?

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 do I put my 2025 Ford Explorer in 4 wheel drive?

How to Use 4WD

1. If selecting 4L, place the transmission in Neutral.
2. Press the desired 4WD control button on the 4WD control switch.
3. The cluster screen will display the selected mode and a message that a shift is in progress.