If you own a Jeep Wrangler, you might be wondering how to use its 4 wheel drive feature. 4 wheel drive, or 4WD, is a system that allows the vehicle to send power to all four wheels, instead of just two. This can improve traction, stability and performance on rough terrain, slippery roads or in bad weather conditions. In this article, we will explain how to engage 4 wheel drive in jeep wrangler and why you might need to do this.
How to Put Jeep Wrangler in 4 Wheel Drive?
The process of putting your Jeep Wrangler in 4 wheel drive depends on the model and year of your vehicle. However, most Jeep Wranglers have a transfer case lever next to the gear shifter that lets you switch between different modes of 4WD. Here are the steps to follow:
- 1. Park your Jeep Wrangler on a flat surface and apply the parking brake.
- 2. Shift the transmission into neutral.
- 3. Locate the transfer case lever and pull it towards you. You should hear a click and see a light on the dashboard indicating that you are in 4WD.
- 4. Shift the transmission back into drive or reverse and release the parking brake.
- 5. You can now drive your Jeep Wrangler in 4 wheel drive mode.
Note: Some newer models of Jeep Wrangler have an electronic switch instead of a lever to activate 4WD. In that case, you just need to press the button and follow the instructions on the display.
Why You Need to Put Jeep Wrangler in 4 Wheel Drive?
There are many benefits of using 4 wheel drive on your Jeep Wrangler, especially if you like off-road adventures or live in areas with harsh weather conditions. Some of the reasons why you might need to put your Jeep Wrangler in 4 wheel drive are:
- To improve traction and stability on slippery surfaces, such as mud, snow, ice or sand.
- To increase ground clearance and maneuverability on uneven terrain, such as rocks, hills or obstacles.
- To reduce the risk of getting stuck or damaging your vehicle on rough roads or trails.
- To enhance performance and fuel efficiency by distributing power evenly among all four wheels.
However, you should also be aware of some drawbacks and limitations of using 4 wheel drive on your Jeep Wrangler, such as:
- Increased wear and tear on your tires, brakes and drivetrain components.
- Reduced steering responsiveness and turning radius.
- Higher noise and vibration levels inside the cabin.
- Potential damage to your transfer case or axles if you use 4WD on dry pavement or at high speeds.
Therefore, you should only use 4 wheel drive when necessary and switch back to 2 wheel drive when driving on normal roads or highways.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I shift from 2H to 4H or vice versa while driving?
Yes, you can shift from 2H (2 wheel drive high range) to 4H or vice versa while driving, as long as you are not exceeding 55 mph and are not turning sharply. However, it is recommended that you slow down your vehicle before making the shift and avoid doing it frequently.
Q: How do I know if my Jeep Wrangler is in 4 wheel drive?
You can tell if your Jeep Wrangler is in 4 wheel drive by looking at the dashboard indicators. There should be a light that says “Part Time” or “Full Time” depending on the type of 4WD system your vehicle has. You can also check the position of the transfer case lever or switch.
Q: How often should I use 4 wheel drive on my Jeep Wrangler?
As a general rule, you should only use 4 wheel drive when you need it and switch back to 2 wheel drive when you don’t. This will help you save gas, reduce wear and tear, and prevent damage to your vehicle.
Conclusion:
Putting your Jeep Wrangler in 4 wheel drive can be a great way to enjoy its off-road capabilities and handle challenging road conditions. However, you should also know how to use it properly and safely, and when to switch back to 2 wheel drive. By following the steps and tips in this article, you can make the most of your Jeep Wrangler’s 4 wheel drive feature and have fun on any terrain.
