Whats the difference between Ford 4x4 and FX4?

The four-wheel-drive system (4x4) is a drivetrain option that powers all four wheels, while FX4 is a Ford-offered off-road package that adds specific equipment to certain trucks. It’s not a separate drivetrain. This article breaks down what each term means, what they include, and how they affect buying and use.

What four-wheel drive (4x4) means

Four-wheel drive refers to the mechanism that can send power to all four wheels, typically with a two-speed transfer case and selectable modes. It is a fundamental capability rather than a feature package, and it’s available on many Ford trucks and SUVs. The system is designed to improve traction in slippery or rough conditions, such as snow, mud, sand, or steep terrain.

• Delivers power to both front and rear axles for enhanced traction.


• Usually includes a two-speed transfer case with 4High/4Low settings for different conditions.


• Can be configured as part-time or full-time 4x4 depending on the model and year.


• Often paired with both 4x4-capable trim levels and base models, depending on the configuration.


• Primarily a drivetrain feature, not a content package or styling option.

In practice, 4x4 is what enables you to drive in low-traction environments when equipped and engaged. It’s foundational for off-road use, but by itself it doesn’t specify added hardware beyond the drivetrain.

What the FX4 Off-Road Package is

The FX4 Off-Road Package is Ford’s official off-road content package offered on certain trucks. It is not a separate drivetrain, but it does typically assume you have a capable drivetrain (often 4x4) and then adds enhancements designed for tougher terrain. Availability and exact contents vary by model year and generation, but the package generally improves off-road readiness and includes styling cues to identify the build.

• Off-road-tuned suspension components for better control on uneven ground.


• Skid plates to protect vital underbody components such as the engine and transfer case.


• All-terrain tires and often upgraded wheels for improved grip and durability.


• Upgraded shocks and sometimes higher ride height or revised springs.


• Electronic features like hill descent control (on certain years/models) and, in some configurations, a locking rear differential.


• FX4 badge and distinctive exterior/interior styling cues to denote the package.

FX4 is designed to complement a 4x4 setup by adding hardware and software that enhance off-road capability. Because features can shift with model year, it’s wise to check the specific build for a given vehicle.

Key differences in practice

Below are practical distinctions to consider when evaluating a Ford truck or SUV that might be labeled 4x4 or FX4.

• Drivetrain vs package: 4x4 is the drivetrain; FX4 is an optional equipment package that may require 4x4 but is not itself a drivetrain option.


• Content vs capability: 4x4 enables four-wheel power; FX4 adds off-road components (suspension, skid plates, tires, etc.).


• Model-year variation: FX4 features can change by generation; always confirm the exact contents on a given vehicle.


• Appearance and identification: FX4 typically includes specific badges and may have distinct wheels or tires; 4x4 designation is commonly shown in the drivetrain selector and on the window sticker or VIN build sheet.

When shopping, you’ll likely find FX4 listed only with certain 4x4 configurations, reinforcing that FX4 is an option package rather than a standalone drivetrain. Always verify the build sheet or window sticker to confirm both the presence of 4x4 and the exact FX4 contents.

How to tell them apart on a vehicle

To distinguish 4x4 capability from the FX4 package on a Ford truck, look for these cues during inspection or in the documentation.

• Drivetrain selector: A 4WD/4x4 switch or lever indicates four-wheel drive capability; absence means a 2WD configuration.


• FX4 badge: Vehicles with the FX4 Off-Road Package typically wear an FX4 badge on the tailgate or doors, along with distinctive wheels or grille accents on some generations.


• Window sticker/build sheet: The order description will show “FX4 Off-Road Package” along with 4x4 as applicable; this confirms both the package and drivetrain setup.


• Suspension and underbody hardware: FX4 often includes skid plates and off-road-tuned shocks up front; these components can be visible on inspection.

If you’re unsure, ask the dealer for the vehicle’s VIN-linked build sheet or a Carfax/Autocheck-style report that lists factory options and drivetrain configuration. This will confirm whether the truck has 4x4 and whether FX4 is included.

Summary

In short, 4x4 describes the four-wheel-drive capability of a Ford vehicle, providing power to all wheels and typically including a transfer case with selectable modes. FX4, by contrast, is an optional off-road package that adds purpose-built hardware and features to enhance off-road performance, and is usually offered alongside a 4x4 drivetrain. The two often appear together, but one is a drivetrain option and the other a content package. Always check the build sheet or window sticker to understand exactly what a specific vehicle includes and to ensure you’re getting the off-road capability you want.

What year did Ford stop making the FX4?

Ford offered an Expedition FX4 through the 2021 model year, when it was replaced by the Timberline trim level.

What is special about the FX4 package?

The Expedition available Ford FX4 package is tailored for families who want third-row space and trail credibility, typically adding off-road shocks, all-terrain tires, additional underbody protection, and hill descent control. Note: Features vary by trim and year.

Which F-150 to stay away from?

You should avoid 2004-2006, 2010, 2013, and 2015-2018 model years of the Ford F-150 due to common engine failures, transmission problems, and structural or electrical issues. These specific years are linked to issues such as the 5.4L Triton engine's spark plug and cam phaser problems, 6-speed transmission failures, and concerns with the aluminum body and electronic systems.
 
This video explains the worst Ford F-150 years to avoid: 57sSpeed SpectrumYouTube · Nov 19, 2025
Years to avoid

• 2004-2006: These models suffered from major issues with the 5.4L Triton V8 engine, including spark plug blowouts and cam phaser failures. 
• 2010: This year continued the problematic 5.4L engine and also had frequent issues with window leaks, rough shifting, and transmission vibrations. 
• 2013: These models experienced transmission problems, particularly with the 6-speed automatic, leading to hard shifts and gear slippage. 
• 2015-2018: These years saw widespread problems, including engine oil leaks on the 2.7L EcoBoost, issues with the electronic power steering (EPAS), and a large recall for a seat belt pretensioner defect that could cause fires. The 2018 also introduced some transmission issues with the new 10-speed gearbox. 

What to look for instead

• 2009, 2014, 2019-2020, and 2021+: These are often cited as some of the better years for the F-150, particularly with the 5.0L V8 or 2.7L EcoBoost engines. 
• 2014: A solid year for reliability, especially when equipped with the 5.0L V8 engine. 
• 2019-2020: Known for improved reliability and fixes to common issues from previous years. 

Important considerations

• Always get a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, regardless of the model year. 
• Research specific engine options within a model year, as some engines are more reliable than others. 
• If considering a 2021 model, be aware of potential issues related to major redesigns, such as electrical glitches and other build quality problems. 
• Check for open recalls on any used vehicle before purchase.

What is the difference between 4X4 and FX4?

4x4 refers to a truck with four-wheel drive, while FX4 is a specific Ford off-road package that adds upgrades to a 4x4 truck, making it more capable for off-road use. FX4 includes features like skid plates, off-road tuned shocks, a locking rear differential, and off-road drive modes, which are not standard on a base 4x4 model.
 

Feature	4x4 (Standard)	FX4 (4x4 with Off-Road Package)
Definition	A truck with four-wheel drive capability.	A 4x4 truck that includes the FX4 Off-Road Package.
Suspension	Standard suspension.	Off-road tuned shocks for better handling on rough terrain.
Undercarriage	Standard undercarriage.	Skid plates for protection against rocks and debris.
Traction	Standard four-wheel drive.	An electronically locking rear differential for improved traction on difficult terrain.
Other Features	Basic four-wheel drive system.	Off-road drive modes, electronic hill descent control, and all-terrain tires.
Purpose	Basic ability to switch between 2WD and 4WD.	Enhanced off-road capability for tougher conditions.

(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_F_AlacflLZWui-gPlcfBqAM_256';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();