How to use your 4WD system

WITH CROSSOVERS AND SUVS supplanting sedans as the default choice for everyday transportation, it’s common for any given vehicle to sport four or all-wheel drive (4WD and AWD).

- EZRA DYER

Most new models have fully automatic AWD systems that will detect wheel slip and automatically divert power to the wheels with traction, with no driver involvement required. But in most bakkies and some SUVs with 4WD, there will be at least two drive configurations you can choose from to maximize your vehicle’s capability in a given situation. If you drive an SUV with an off-road bent, such as a Toyota Land Cruiser, you have even more choices – high range, low range, locked or unlocked center differential. It gets complicated quickly.

But let’s begin with the biggest topic of confusion: 4WD versus AWD. With AWD, there’s a center differential that allows the front and rear tires to rotate at different speeds. For commuting to work in 8 cm of sleet, for example, AWD will keep you safe. Driving on something trickier than a slightly muddy or snowy path? You’ll want 4WD, to eliminate slip in the system front-to-rear. If you’re ready to find out what your 4WD system can do, start here.

4WD AUTO