Flicking into 4X4 for the first time can feel like engaging warp drive. Suddenly, your rig grabs the earth a little tighter, pulls a little harder, and starts to act like the terrain isn’t quite as intimidating as it looked ten seconds ago. The difference between a great day on the tracks and an expensive call to the local recovery bloke is knowing when, and which, 4X4 setting to use. So, let’s break it down.
convoy of 4wds driving through desert
AWD vs 4WD: What’s the Deal?
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems are mostly found in crossovers and soft-roaders. They’re great for slippery bitumen or well-maintained dirt roads, with the computer deciding when to shuffle power front or rear. Proper 4WD, like what you’ll find in most 4X4s is built for more serious work. It uses a transfer case to split drive evenly between the front and rear, and gives you access to low-range gearing. That’s where the magic happens.
When to use different 4WD Settings
4A (4 Auto)
4A is a clever setting found in many modern dual-range 4X4s like the Next-Gen Ranger and Everest. It automatically distributes torque between front and rear axles as needed, meaning you can safely use it on sealed roads in the wet or when towing. It’s ideal for variable conditions. Think patchy gravel, rain-slick bitumen, or transitioning from bitumen to dirt without stopping. It’s not for hardcore off-roading, but it’s brilliant for everyday traction and safety.
convoy of 4wds driving through sand
4H (Four High)
This is your go-to setting for gravel roads, firm sand, snow, and anything where you want better traction but don’t need extra torque. It’ll help with stability and reduce wheelspin, but you can still cruise at normal speeds. Just remember: don’t engage 4H on dry bitumen unless your vehicle has a centre diff. It can cause drivetrain bind and turn your transfer case into a billion shards of aluminium and steel.
4L (Four Low)
This is for the tricky stuff: steep hills, deep sand, rocky climbs and mud bogs. This is where 4L shines. It multiplies your torque, slows everything down, and gives you far more control at low speeds. Pair it with some steady throttle and good line choice, and you’ll be surprised where you can take your rig.
4LLc (or 4L with Locked Centre Diff)
Found on some full-time 4X4s like Pajeros or Prados, this mode locks the centre differential for even torque split across axles. It’s essentially the “proper” 4L mode when you need max traction, and you’d use it in the same sort of terrain as standard 4L.
red 4wd driving through water
Final Word
Think of your 4X4 settings as a toolbox. Use the right gear for the job, and your rig will reward you with capability, control, and confidence. Use the wrong one? Well, that’s how Instagram sees another “I got bogged at Inskip Point” video.
Get the gear in the car and the car into gear
And take it anywhere you can legally go in Australia
