What does the four wheel drive warning light mean?

The 4WD indicator means that your vehicle has activated XNUMXWD. If the Service XNUMXWD light is on, there may be a problem with the system.

Anyone who is fond of off-road knows that all-wheel drive is a must. Unlike two-wheeled vehicles, four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles have a transfer case that takes power from the engine and sends it to the front and rear wheels. Most XNUMXxXNUMXs also have a low range and a high range depending on the situation. Even though there is a button or switch that is used to activate all-wheel drive, car manufacturers include an indicator on the dash to let the driver know which setting is in use.

What does the all wheel drive indicator mean

When all-wheel drive is turned on, the corresponding indicator lights up on the dashboard. Vehicles with multiple gear ranges will also indicate which range has been selected. High and low are usually referred to as "hi" and "lo" respectively. Some vehicles may only have a low range indicator as the default is high range. Refer to your vehicle owner's manual for specific information about your AWD system.

New car models began to use electronics to control all-wheel drive. Some of these electronically controlled systems have an automatic 4x4 mode. This mode keeps the vehicle in two-wheel drive mode most of the time until additional traction is needed. The car's computer monitors wheel speed, and if it detects slippage, it sends power to all four wheels to keep the car moving.

Vehicles with an all-wheel drive system usually have a separate indicator light to indicate a problem with the system. Usually referred to as "Service 4WD". When this light turns on, a code is stored in the computer's memory to help diagnose any problems. Depending on the problem, four-wheel drive may be temporarily disabled. Sometimes, if you haven't used four-wheel drive for a while, the computer may decide that the transfer case is not properly lubricated. If the service light comes on, try different gear ranges and drive a little to move the oil. Hopefully the next time you start the engine the light will go out.

Is it safe to drive with the XNUMXWD indicator on?

The use of all-wheel drive on slippery roads significantly affects the handling of the car. Never turn on all-wheel drive on dry pavement. All-wheel drive requires some slip between the front and rear wheels, so it's perfect for gravel, snow, and sand. On dry pavement, the clutch prevents slippage, and the inclusion of all-wheel drive increases the load on the transmission. Cars equipped with automatic all-wheel drive switch between modes on demand, so you don't have to worry about switching yourself.

If your service light is on or your AWD system is not working properly, ask one of our certified technicians to help you diagnose any problems.