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Can you switch to 4 wheel drive while driving f150?
I drive a Ford F-150 for work through some tricky terrain. I try to use 2-wheel drive to help save gas, but sometimes I need 4-wheel drive when driving through mud or over ice. Can I switch to 4-wheel drive while I’m driving, or do I have to stop my truck entirely?
Michelle Ballestrasse · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
That’s a great question, and one that plenty of truck drivers are concerned about. Older truck models couldn’t switch to 4-wheel drive (4WD) while the truck was still in motion, but newer ones can.
This makes switching more convenient for sudden changes in terrain when stopping the truck isn’t always feasible.
But there are still some precautions you should take before switching:
- Slow to less than 60mph. Switching between drive modes should be done at reduced speeds.
- Choose the right drive mode. You may have an F-150 that offers you 2H, 4A, 4H, and 4L drive modes. Each is meant for different road conditions:
- 2H: Two-Wheel Drive High is used for general driving on paved roads, and is the default.
- 4A: Four-Wheel Drive Auto is used for increased traction on slippery roads or surfaceslike iceor mud.
- 4H: Four-Wheel Drive High is used for increased torque on unstable surfaces like sand or gravel. Do not use on dry pavement.
- 4L: Four-Wheel Drive Low is used on low traction surfaces where you may need more torque as well, such as deep sand or loose dirt, steep inclines, or when you’re towing or hauling. This is only for off-road use.
And that’s it! Be safe and sensible when switching drive modes, and you won’t be putting yourself or your truck in any danger. But mistakes happen—and if you forget to switch to 4A on an icy day, as long as you’ve found great
comprehensive insurance
with Jerry
, you’re still covered.If you haven’t gotten comprehensive insurance yet, what are you waiting for? Jerry is always on hand (literally, it’s an app) to help you find great coverage in minutes. Plus, the average Jerry user saves $887 a year!
MORE: How to get cheap truck insurance for your pickup Truck
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- Gregory R.
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