When you’re out exploring the bush or navigating technical tracks, understanding how your 4X4’s drive modes work can make a world of difference. Modern 4X4s like the Ford Ranger and Everest have come a long way, integrating tech that makes 4X4ing easier and more accessible than ever. Here’s a breakdown of how these drive modes function and why they matter.
Traditional 4X4 Drive Modes
Even in today’s tech-heavy vehicles, traditional drive modes still play a crucial role in 4X4ing. They give you control over how drive is distributed to your vehicle’s wheels, ensuring you’ve got the traction you need in different situations.
- 2H (Two High): In this mode, the vehicle operates as a standard two-wheel drive, sending power to just the rear wheels. Perfect for regular driving on dry, solid surfaces like bitumen.
- 4A (Four Auto): This is where things get interesting. In 4A, the vehicle automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels as needed. It’s great for conditions like wet or slippery roads, where you might encounter a bit of unpredictability—think rainy highways or light snow.
- 4H (Four High): When you need extra traction, such as when driving off-road or on loose surfaces like gravel, 4H locks the centre differential and splits drive evenly between the front and rear axles. This mode ensures stability, but since it locks the centre diff, it’s not recommended for hard surfaces like sealed roads where the tyres need to turn at different speeds to avoid drivetrain wind-up.
- 4L (Four Low): Low-range gearing kicks in when things get seriously tough—whether it’s rock crawling, driving through deep sand, or tackling steep inclines. 4L provides more control and torque, slowing the vehicle down but delivering heaps of power to pull you through gnarly terrain.
Smart 4X4 Drive Modes for Beginners
The days of manually locking hubs and fiddling with levers are largely behind us. Modern 4X4s simplify the experience with advanced drive modes tailored to specific terrains. With the turn of a dial, the vehicle optimises everything—from throttle response to transmission shifting and traction control.
Here’s what you get:
- Normal: This mode is perfect for everyday driving. It prioritises comfort and efficiency, allowing the vehicle to act like any standard car on the road.
- Eco: If you’re looking to squeeze a bit more fuel economy out of your vehicle, Eco mode is your friend. It moderates throttle response to save fuel, ideal for long highway drives.
- Tow/Haul: Designed for when you’re towing a camper or heavy trailer, this mode adjusts the transmission to better handle the extra weight. It helps maintain power and stability, preventing the vehicle from struggling up hills or under acceleration.
Off-Road Drive Modes
For the serious 4X4er, these modes take the guesswork out of choosing the best setup for different terrains:
- Slippery: Perfect for snow or ice-covered roads, this mode optimises the vehicle’s stability and traction control systems. It works by adjusting how the power is delivered to each wheel, helping prevent slipping.
- Mud/Ruts: When you’re driving through deep mud or rutted tracks, this mode maximises grip and keeps the vehicle moving forward. The vehicle’s systems work to maintain momentum while preventing the wheels from getting bogged down.
- Sand: This mode is where things get exciting. Sand driving requires a delicate balance of power and speed, and in Sand mode, the rear differential is automatically locked to prevent wheelspin. With more aggressive throttle mapping and traction control tweaks, your 4X4 is set up to power through soft dunes or sandy inland tracks.
Extra Control Features
Beyond the drive modes, modern 4X4s offer additional features that let you tailor the vehicle’s performance to your exact needs:
- Rear Differential Lock: Engaging the rear diff lock is a game-changer when navigating particularly tough spots. It ensures that both rear wheels turn at the same speed, giving you consistent traction even when one wheel is off the ground or on a slippery surface. This feature is especially useful in rock-crawling scenarios or muddy, uneven terrain. Just remember, it’s best used at low speeds (under 40 km/h) to avoid damaging the driveline.
- Hill Descent Control: For steep declines, Hill Descent Control is a lifesaver. It automatically applies the brakes to control your speed, so you can focus on steering. It’s a handy feature for beginners, letting you feel more in control on rough, downhill slopes without worrying about tyres slipping.
A Beginner-Friendly Setup
What’s remarkable about these modern 4X4 drive modes is how user-friendly they are. With just a turn of a dial, even a novice can confidently tackle diverse terrain without needing deep technical knowledge. Sure, you’ll still need to adjust your tyre pressures depending on the surface, but the system handles most of the heavy lifting.
For the everyday adventurer, the combination of smart 4X4 modes and traditional features provides the perfect balance of control and simplicity. Whether you’re tackling deep mud, soft sand, or icy roads, the tech in today’s 4X4s ensures you’re well-equipped for whatever lies ahead.
So, whether you’re a seasoned 4X4er or just getting into the game, understanding how these drive modes work—and when to use them—will help you get the most out of your rig on every adventure.