Newer vehicles with dynamic 4WD systems use the latest technology to make lightning-quick micro-adjustments to your drivetrain, ensuring you never have to worry about encountering challenging terrain or inclement weather around Phoenix. However, not every vehicle has dynamic 4WD. Those that don’t, especially trucks and big SUVs, tend to have three different options for 4WD: 2Hi (2 High), 4Lo (4 Low), and 4Hi (4 High).
So then, when should you use 2Hi, 4Lo, and 4Hi? What is the difference between 4H and 4L? Trucks Only discusses these questions and more in the guide to manual 4WD modes below so you know which to use when navigating the Tucson roads.
Usually, any given 4WD or 4×4 vehicle with a manual drive selection will come with 2Hi, 4Lo, and 4Hi drive modes. What do these abbreviations mean? The easiest way to start identifying each is in their first number. The “2” in 2Hi references two-wheel drive, while the “4” in 4Lo and 4Hi references four-wheel drive. But what’s the difference between 4H and 4L? Find out when to use 4 Low and all the other drive modes in our 2 High vs. 4 High vs. 4 Low breakdowns below:
2Hi, or 2 High, is an available two-wheel drive mode on your vehicle. When you’re driving at normal speeds on flat, dry Tempe roads, this is the setting you should be using. That includes if you’re pulling a trailer or hauling something in your truck’s box. When 2Hi is active, all the power goes to your rear wheels, split evenly on each side.
What does 4Lo mean, and what is the difference between 4H and 4L? 4Lo, or 4 Low, is the high-torque four-wheel drive setting. 4Lo is meant to be used only on very rough terrain, such as thick mud, heavy snow, or fording a river. If you are wondering whether to use 4H or 4L for snow, you should use 4Lo in deep snow. When in 4Lo, you should never go above 40 mph. This setting will help you to get unstuck or climb a steep grade at low speed. It’s important to remember to switch back to 2Hi or 4Hi as soon as it’s safe to do so.
Now that you know when to use 4 Low, you may be wondering about the difference between 4-wheel Low vs. High. 4Hi, or 4 High, is for optimizing traction at the cost of power. Unlike 4Lo, 4 Hi should be used when you’re dealing with slippery conditions on otherwise good roads, such as ice or rain. 4Hi should never be used below 15 mph. As a result, you should not use 4Hi to try to get unstuck.
Still comparing 4-wheel Low vs. High driving modes? For more answers to your questions about the difference between 2 High vs. 4 High vs. 4 Low modes and how each drive mode should be used safely, reach out to the experts at Trucks Only! Our Mesa team is here to help you with any information you need, from the towing capacities of your favorite models to lifting guides, so don’t hesitate to get in contact with us today for all your truck needs.
