Is the Ford Expedition 4 wheel drive?
Yes. The Ford Expedition is available with four-wheel drive (4WD). Most trims offer 2WD as well, but 4WD is an option on many configurations and is designed to improve traction in adverse conditions.
What follows is a detailed look at how the Expedition’s drivetrain works, which trims offer 4WD, and how to identify the correct configuration when shopping for a new or used model.
Drivetrain options
Overview of the two primary drivetrain configurations you’ll encounter on the current Expedition lineup.
- 2-Wheel Drive (2WD): Standard on some trims; power is sent to the rear axle, offering good highway efficiency and more interior space for passengers and cargo.
- 4-Wheel Drive (4WD): Available on most trims as an option or standard on higher trims; uses a transfer case to provide power to both front and rear axles for enhanced traction in snow, rain, mud, or light off-road use.
In practice, 4WD is favored by buyers in regions with challenging weather or terrain, while 2WD remains a cost-efficient choice for everyday urban driving.
Identifying 4WD and how it works
Key details to spot in a Ford Expedition with 4WD and how the system operates.
- Drivetrain badge and option codes: Look for “4x4” or “4WD” badges and verify the window sticker or build sheet shows a 4x4 drivetrain.
- Transfer case and drive modes: 4WD Expeditions use a transfer case with selectable modes to optimize traction for various conditions, often including Normal, Tow/Haul, and specialized modes like slippery or mud/sand in newer models.
- Shifter control: Engagement can be via a console switch, knob, or electronic selector to activate 4WD, with some years offering an automatic 4WD option for convenience.
When driving in normal highway conditions, many owners leave the system in 2WD or use an automatic mode if available; 4WD should be engaged when conditions demand extra traction.
About all-wheel drive versus four-wheel drive
Clarifying terminology and capabilities for prospective buyers.
- AWD vs 4WD: The Expedition’s current configurations are described as 2WD or 4WD rather than AWD. AWD systems are typically designed for full-time traction without driver engagement, while 4WD on the Expedition is designed for on-demand traction with a transfer case and selectable modes.
- Usage scenarios: 4WD is beneficial in snow, ice, mud, and light off-road conditions, especially when paired with appropriate tires. On dry pavement, 4WD can reduce efficiency and may wear components faster if used unnecessarily.
Bottom line: choose 4WD when you need additional traction, and use 2WD for normal conditions to maximize efficiency and tire life.
Trim and year notes
Availability of 2WD vs 4WD can vary by model year and trim level. The current Expedition lineup generally offers both configurations, with 4WD commonly paired with higher trims or optional packages that add advanced traction and drive-mode features.
- Current offerings: 2WD and 4WD configurations are available across many trims, including XLT, Limited, King Ranch, Platinum, and the extended Max versions.
- Packages and verification: Some trims include 4WD as standard, while others require selecting it as an option; always verify the exact drivetrain on the build sheet or window sticker.
To be certain, check the VIN or dealer documentation to confirm the drivetrain before purchase.
Fuel economy and driving behavior
Effects of 4WD on efficiency and everyday handling.
- Fuel economy: 4WD typically reduces fuel efficiency compared with 2WD due to added drivetrain weight and complexity; the exact impact varies by year and configuration.
- Handling and traction: 4WD improves traction in adverse weather and off-road conditions, but does not replace careful driving and proper tire selection.
For everyday driving, many owners operate in 2WD and engage 4WD only when conditions warrant it.
Summary
The Ford Expedition offers both 2WD and 4WD configurations, with no dedicated AWD option in the current lineup. The 4WD system provides enhanced traction through a transfer case and selectable drive modes, making the SUV capable in inclement weather and light off-road use. When shopping, verify the drivetrain on the window sticker or build sheet to confirm whether the vehicle is 2WD or 4WD.
Bottom line: If you need four-wheel drive capability for weather or terrain, the Expedition’s 4WD option is designed to deliver it, while 2WD remains a practical choice for regular road driving.
Are Ford Expeditions good in the snow?
On mixed snow, slush, and ice through the mountains, the Expedition proved incredibly sure-footed despite wearing a positively awful set of all-season tires. Its excellent stability control system combines with the automatic four-wheel drive to keep the truck planted even on slippery, changing surfaces.
Do all Ford Explorers have 4 wheel drive?
No, not all Ford Explorers have 4-wheel drive (4WD); it is available as an option on many models, while others come standard with rear-wheel drive (RWD). While some recent model years have made Intelligent 4WD a standard feature on certain trims, many lower trims are available with RWD as a base configuration.
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD): Many base and lower-trim models come standard with RWD, with 4WD being an upgrade.
- Four-wheel drive (4WD): 4WD is an option that can be added to many different trims, and on some models, it is a standard feature.
- Intelligent 4WD: Ford uses a system it calls "Intelligent 4WD," which can automatically switch between 2WD and 4WD based on driving conditions.
- Model variations: The availability of 4WD depends on the specific model year and trim level you choose.
Do all Fords have 4 wheel drive?
Several Ford SUVs offer 4-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), including the Ford Bronco, Explorer, Expedition, Edge, and Escape, giving drivers enhanced traction and off-road capability across various models.
How to turn on 4WD Ford Expedition?
To put a Ford Expedition in 4WD, use the 4WD control button or dial on the instrument panel or center console to select the desired mode, such as 4-Auto, 4-High, or 4-Low. You can shift to 4-Auto, 4-High, or 4-Low at normal driving speeds, but the vehicle must be stopped with the transmission in Neutral to shift into 4-Low.
This video explains the different drive modes and how to change them in a Ford Expedition: 58sDIY PintoYouTube · Sep 19, 2025
For 4-Auto, 4-High, or 4-Low
- Locate the 4WD control switch or dial: on the instrument panel or center console.
- Select your desired mode:
- 4-Auto: Automatically engages 4WD when needed for on-road conditions like snow or wet surfaces.
- 4-High: For slippery conditions or trails, like dirt roads.
- 4-Low: For low-speed situations requiring maximum torque, such as deep snow, mud, or sand.
For 4-Low only
- Stop the vehicle completely .
- Shift the transmission to Neutral (N) .
- Press the 4L button: on the control switch.
- Confirm the shift: The cluster will display a message, and the lights on the control switch will flash while the system engages.
- Once engaged, you can shift back into drive if needed, but remember that 4L is not intended for use on dry pavement.
