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What is the slippery mode on the Ford Explorer?

The Ford Explorer's slippery mode is a specialized driving mode designed to enhance traction and control in slippery or low-grip conditions, such as snow, ice, or wet roads. This feature helps drivers navigate challenging terrain more safely and confidently.


What is the Slippery Mode?


The slippery mode on the Ford Explorer is an advanced traction control system that adjusts the vehicle's powertrain and stability control settings to optimize performance in slippery conditions. When activated, the slippery mode reduces engine power, adjusts the transmission's shift points, and enhances the stability control system to prevent wheel spin and loss of traction. This helps the Explorer maintain better control and stability, reducing the risk of skids, slides, or loss of control on slippery surfaces.


How Does the Slippery Mode Work?


The slippery mode on the Ford Explorer is typically engaged by pressing a dedicated button or switch on the vehicle's dashboard or center console. Once activated, the system monitors the vehicle's sensors, including wheel speed, steering angle, and throttle position, to detect any loss of traction. When slippage is detected, the slippery mode automatically adjusts the powertrain and stability control settings to maintain optimal grip and control.



  • Reduced engine power: The slippery mode reduces engine power output to prevent wheel spin and loss of traction.

  • Adjusted transmission shifting: The transmission's shift points are adjusted to maintain lower engine speeds, which helps prevent wheel spin.

  • Enhanced stability control: The stability control system is enhanced to quickly detect and correct any loss of traction, helping the vehicle maintain its intended path.


These adjustments work together to provide the driver with a more stable and controlled driving experience in slippery conditions, allowing them to navigate safely and confidently.


Benefits of the Slippery Mode


The slippery mode on the Ford Explorer offers several key benefits for drivers:


  • Improved traction and control: The mode's adjustments to the powertrain and stability control system help maintain better traction and control on slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of skids, slides, or loss of control.

  • Enhanced safety: By providing more stable and controlled handling in challenging conditions, the slippery mode can help prevent accidents and keep drivers and passengers safer on the road.

  • Increased confidence: Knowing that the vehicle's systems are optimized for slippery conditions can give drivers more confidence and peace of mind when navigating through snow, ice, or heavy rain.


Overall, the slippery mode on the Ford Explorer is a valuable feature that can help drivers navigate challenging weather and road conditions more safely and effectively.

How do you drive in slippery conditions?


Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Apply the gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skids. Don't try to get moving in a hurry and take time to slow down for a stoplight. Remember: It takes longer to slow down on icy roads.



Which mode saves the most gas?


Eco mode puts less strain on a car's engine, resulting in several benefits such as: Improved fuel economy: While the change in fuel economy isn't drastic, your car will use less gas and get more miles per gallon when you use eco mode correctly.



How does slippery mode work on Ford Explorer?


Slippery Mode
It reduces engine torque and optimizes traction control to prevent wheel spin, providing better grip and stability on wet, icy, or gravel-covered roads.



Can you change drive modes while driving a Ford Explorer?


Note: To engage or disengage Track or V-Max Drive Modes, the car must be at a stop with the transmission in park (P) and the engine running. This is necessary since the vehicle ride height changes. You can change between Normal, Wet and Sport Drive Modes while the vehicle is in motion.



Is it OK to change drive modes while driving?


Yes, it is generally okay to change drive modes while driving, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. When changing drive modes, it's typically best to do so while your vehicle is sitting still or at a steady cruising speed.



Is it OK to drive with traction control on all the time?


You should leave your traction control at all times so that you can benefit from this important safety feature. However, in very rare circumstances, you may need to turn the traction control off temporarily.



What is the speed limit on slippery mode Ford?


No speed restrictions on slippery mode unless you also lock the diff - in which case you need to be under 25 MPH. Rear locker will automaticaly unlock somewhere above 20MPH and will relock if you go below 20mph if the switch is still on. Road conditions suggest the correct mode to use.



When to use slippery mode on Explorer?


Slippery – limits torque to prevent slipping or sliding on gravel, ice, packed snow, water or thin coatings of sand.



Is it okay to drive in slippery mode?


Slippery mode lowers throttle response and optimizes shifting for slippery surfaces. The rear differential lock feature is available in slippery mode. When enabled it is engaged below 15 mph (24 km/h). Note: Do not use this mode when driving on dry pavement.



What is the best drive mode to drive in?


Comfort 95% of the time. If you're driving casually, Comfort is probably the best mode as it won't hold the revs too high, helping gas mileage, easing transmission shifts, and generally making for a smoother ride (between transmission shift points/speed and damper rates if so equipped).


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.