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Does driving in 4WD use more gas?

I have a Ford Explorer that allows me to switch from 2WD to 4WD at the turn of a knob. While I usually keep it in 2WD, lots of snow has been falling lately. As a result, I’ve been using 4WD more and more. My only issue is that I’m trying to save money, and I don’t want to spend extra money on gas. Will driving in 4WD use more gas?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
The
Ford Explorer
is a snow beast when equipped with 4WD! Unfortunately, driving in 4WD uses more gas than 2WD, simply because more components are used within a 4WD system. More components mean more fuel to power the drivetrain, which leads to increased gas consumption.
However, you can apply a few tips to ensure that you’re not guzzling down gas quite as much:
  • Let your engine warm up for 10 to 15 minutes before driving
  • Make sure your tires are properly inflated
  • Only drive when you absolutely have to
  • Drive slowly
  • Get a tuneup
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