You know that your Jeep is a beast once it leaves the beaten path for a walk on the wild side. You know that its legendary 4×4 capability is the reason. But thereâs something youâre not so sure about: the difference between 4×4 High-Range and Low-Range.
Thatâs okay. At Prescott Brothers Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Mendota, we know all there is to know about your ultimate off-roading vehicle â including the ins and outs of 4×4 High-Range and Low-Range. Read about the differences below. Weâll have you using these systems like a pro in no time.
What You Need to Know About 4×4 High-Range and Low-Range
4×4 High Range
When to use it: If you find yourself in slippery or unsteady conditions like ice, snow, mud, or rocky roads, you should engage your 4×4 High-Range to maximize your traction. Designed for use at more than 25 mph, High-Range mode is your best bet for traversing low-traction surfaces at higher speeds.
How fast to go: Itâs very important to keep in mind that 4×4 High-Range is specifically engineered for off-roading. So while you might be tempted to push it to the limit, you should also take precaution. Never go faster than surface conditions permit. You can shift into High-Range mode while stopped or at speeds up to 55 mph.
When to disengage: Itâs all about what kind of system you have. If your Jeep has a full-time 4×4 system, you can drive in High-Range as long as youâd like. But if your Jeep has a part-time system, youâll want to reserve High Range for loose or slick surfaces exclusively.
4×4 Low Range
When to use it: Getting you out of a bind is 4×4 Low-Rangeâs specialty. Thatâs why youâll want to engage it in low-speed situations that require more torque, such as when youâre stuck or need to tackle a steep incline. 4×4 Low-Range isnât equipped to handle tricky surfaces, though, so youâll want to stick to 4×4 High-Range for those.
How fast to go: Move at a crawl when engaging 4×4 Low-Range â exceeding 3 mph is a no-no. 4×4 Low-Range isnât designed for normal driving, so you shouldnât venture upward of 25 mph once youâre moving.
When to disengage: As with engaging, youâll also want to disengage 4×4 Low-Range at very low speeds. If your Jeep has an automatic transmission, you can accomplish this by shifting into Neutral. If your Jeep has a manual transmission, you can disengage by depressing the clutch pedal. Regardless, avoid disengaging while at a complete stop. Â
Arm Yourself with 4×4 Capability in Mendota, IL
Now that youâre an expert on 4×4 High-Range and Low-Range, itâs time to put your knowledge to good use. If youâre still looking for a Jeep with 4×4 capability, weâve got you covered. Shop our inventory of cars for sale today. Weâre excited to show you an unparalleled off-roading experience.