A Ford Expedition is a great vehicle for those who love adventure and off-roading. To fully enjoy its capabilities, it’s essential to know how to put it in 4 wheel drive mode. In this article, we will guide you on how to do it step by step.
Step 1: Understand the Basics
Before putting your Ford Expedition in 4 wheel drive, it’s important to understand the basics of the system. The 4 wheel drive system provides power to all four wheels, which is useful when driving on rough terrain, mud, snow, or ice. It gives you better traction and control, allowing you to drive on challenging surfaces with ease.
Step 2: Stop the Vehicle
The first step to putting your Ford Expedition in 4 wheel drive is to stop the vehicle. Make sure that you are in a safe location, and the parking brake is engaged.
Step 3: Shift into Neutral
The next step is to shift your vehicle into neutral. This will disengage the transmission from the wheels, allowing you to shift into 4 wheel drive mode.
Step 4: Select 4 High or 4 Low
Now, it’s time to switch to 4 wheel drive mode. You can choose between 4 High or 4 Low, depending on the driving conditions. 4 High is suitable for driving on slippery surfaces, while 4 Low is ideal for off-roading and crawling.
Step 5: Engage the 4 Wheel Drive System
After selecting the appropriate mode, engage the 4 wheel drive system by pulling the lever or pressing the button. Once it’s engaged, you will notice a change in the vehicle’s behavior. It will have more traction, and the steering may feel slightly different.
Step 6: Test the 4 Wheel Drive System
It’s essential to test the 4 wheel drive system to ensure that it’s working correctly. Drive your Ford Expedition on a flat surface and turn the steering wheel to make sure that it’s responding correctly. You can also test it by driving on a slippery surface or off-roading.
Step 7: Disengage the 4 Wheel Drive System
When you no longer need the 4 wheel drive system, disengage it by following the same steps in reverse order. Shift to neutral, switch to 2 wheel drive mode, and then shift to drive or reverse.
Step 8: Maintenance and Care
It’s essential to take care of your 4 wheel drive system by following the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular maintenance and care will ensure that it’s working correctly and lasts for a long time.
Step 9: Frequently Asked Questions
Some frequently asked questions about putting a Ford Expedition in 4 wheel drive mode are:
Can I switch to 4 wheel drive while driving?
No, it’s not advisable to switch to 4 wheel drive while driving. You should always stop the vehicle and shift to neutral before engaging the 4 wheel drive system.
Is it safe to drive in 4 wheel drive mode on dry roads?
No, it’s not safe to drive in 4 wheel drive mode on dry roads. It will put extra strain on the system and increase fuel consumption. You should only use it when driving on slippery surfaces or off-roading.
How often should I engage the 4 wheel drive system?
You should engage the 4 wheel drive system when driving on rough terrain, mud, snow, or ice. It’s not necessary to use it on regular roads or highways.