How & When To Use 2WD, AUTO 4WD, 4 HIGH or 4 LOW : A Beginner's Guide

[@Donslife]

linktr.ee/donslife - Links to all of my products and discounts

[@chrisgraham2904]

When I first got my license at age 16, my Father gave me a good piece of advise. When the first Canadian snowfall hits, head to an open parking lot to pull a few donuts and intentional slides. Slam on the brakes and get used to the slide to re-acquaint your brain with recovery from slides and spin-outs using your steering, brakes or accelerator. Been doing it for 53 winters now and it's a great refresher for safe winter driving. Driving and surprises don't work well together.

[@grejen711]

:) used to do that when I was a kid too. Didn't need any encouragement from dad though!

[@Donslife]

I have provided the same advice to my 4 daughters - get a good understanding how the vehicle behaves in a safe area first. Then respect its limits. They all carry jumper cables and basic tools in their trunks, just in case.

[@jimsteinway695]

I didn’t wait for snow. I used to do that in open parking lots anytime I got a higher performance car. I do slides and doughnuts etc. just to get a feel for the vehicle dynamics. Then I’d go join a track day and ask for an instructor

[@kellismith4329]

@@grejen711 yes I dad that too, a driving instructor I had made me do it as well (yes, real driving instruction). Now that I am really old, I still go there whenever there is snow and do donuts etc, lifelong good fun

[@Bullshot62399]

@@grejen711 that last part was not needed

[@jimpulcine9925]

Very informative video. I have to say , I love drifting in the snow. I'm 64 years old but still like to be a kid myself.

[@HawkOnHOG]

I have a 2003 Chevy 2500 and I typically use my drive modes exactly as your suggestions in your video. When I got the truck and noticed the Auto 4WD feature, first thing I did was look at the owner's manual, and it said exactly the same thing. 2WD for normal driving conditions, Auto 4WD for intermittent traction situations, especially typical highway driving in winter conditions, 4 High for more extreme traction, but at speeds between 15mph and 50mph, and 4 Low for low speed situations to get out of a stuck situation. I have only used 4 Low a couple of times ever. I've used 4 High a few times here & there. Auto 4WD, I have used frequently almost every winter, as driving conditions dictated.

[@Donslife]

Thanks for checking this video out and leaving your thoughts

[@oldguysrock2170]

I live in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Winters are up to 5 months long with easily over 200” of snow yearly. I had a 2002 Chevy Avalanche with the Auto 4x4 feature along with 4 high and low settings. From the first snows, I would put it in the Auto setting and pretty much leave it until spring time. I had the Avalanche for 17 years before selling it. Probably the must reliable 4x4 I ever owned.

[@davidtaco8890]

Hello from Harbor Springs Mi!

[@Freedomwarriors0]

How was the rust of the vehicle if you don’t mind me asking?

[@oldguysrock2170]

@@Freedomwarriors0 : The rust on the 02 Avalanche was almost nonexistent. The frame got rusty underneath. The plastic body panels really protected the sheet metal underneath the panels. My 2014 Silverado is 10 years old and rust everywhere. Rocker panels really bad. Rear fenders lots of rust but no holes.

[@cheeng1]

Traction control working in the background for 4Auto is a good point. For on-road snow driving, 4Auto (and off-road mode if available) is the way to go. 4H & 4L are specialized for real off road conditions.

[@Bruce-c3g]

I have a 21 Sierra SLT 4x4. I built an H shaped frame of 2x4’s for between the wheel wells, then placed 6 60# sand bags between. Makes a huge difference in slick conditions

[@fidelbanuelos9601]

Good idea. Do you have a photo of your set up?

[@chadbinette3201]

Trucks today especially have no weight on the rear wheels any weight in the back helps incredibly. Different tires make a huge difference too. Anytime I can I but BF Goodrich all terrain at . Best tires for the money I believe, on a truck atleast.

[@legioxequestris4202]

After many a years of hard work I bought a brand new 2023 ford f150 xlt 5.0 v8 fx4 in January. Never had a 4x4 so I'm definitely a 4x4 newbie.

[@Donslife]

Thank you for watching!

[@swjang3584]

I’m not an english speaker but I was so impressed with your clear accent while watching. I could understand every single word that you spoke. Thanks for sharing useful tips for driving 4wd.

[@Donslife]

Thank you for the compliment. I a pleased you enjoyed the video

[@andydorman2119]

Thank you for this video. This is a start. I've driven dozens of vehicles over 32 years of holding a driver's license through mild climates like WA state to blizzard climates cold enough to freeze gas and propane lines. I've driven through silver thaws, etc. My dad was lovingly brutal about teaching me to drive. Driving, professionally, runs in my paternal family. I do not drive professionally, but could. It... is.... CRUCIAL... to KNOW the vehicle you're driving. Front wheel drive, rear wheel drive, all wheel drive, open differential, limited slip differential, locked diff, etc.. Knowing how to gear down and how to use throttle play(or not), as opposed to applying brakes, is critical. Knowing which wheels are locked by parking brake and how it is engaged and released for emergency(it just fun in open parking lot) benefit, whether by handle or by foot. MANY things to know. The afore mentioned info doesn't even start to take into account the tires/pressures on the vehicle. There are many reasons so many people, nowadays, end up in collisions or ditches in bad weather even though we have SO MANY modern luxuries and tech in our cars/trucks. I like to be the one in FULL CONTROL of the vehicle I'm driving.

[@ARFuse]

Very important to note that when ESC is disengaged, it will automatically reengage at 35mph. Ask the guys who were doing high speed drifts and nearly flipped their truck when it kicked back in and applied braking. Love the videos Don, great content all around.

[@Donslife]

I will continue to avoid that flipping feature 🤔

[@clintk4691]

Very true! As far as I'm aware, only the ZR2 trim allows you to leave ESC off above 30km/h through the use of off road mode. Makes the truck much more fun.

[@patrickedgewood8598]

@@clintk4691 Bison guy here.🦬 and front and back locking differentials.

[@mahidikarif2123]

I need to cancel my warranty claim now. I was running my truck in 4Hi due to the snow, but I didn't understand why my truck was jerking while turning the wheel. I thought I was having an engine problem. What a relief this is for me. Thank you so much for explaining this. This has helped me tremendously.

[@Donslife]

You’re welcome. Glad it helped

[@colleenkirkpatrick670]

Hi Don, thank you for a great video! I have new Bridgestone Bizzaks on my 2022 Elevation and find I'm always slipping and sliding. Any recommendations?

[@Donslife]

@@colleenkirkpatrick670 you’re welcome. If you are on a lot of snow and ice, you could lower the pressure in your tires about 10% of their recommended pressure. Keep in mind they will grip better but also wear down a bit faster on dry roads. Especially at high speed. Blizzacks are great tires. If they have the ability for studs, you could get those added too.

[@colleenkirkpatrick670]

Thank you Don. I'll give that a try with lowering the tire pressure.😀

[@colleenkirkpatrick670]

@@Donslife unfortunately they're a studies winter tire

[@scottlowell493]

Well done! People need this education. Two very important points you illustrated. 1. Ice doesn't care what you drive, stopping is really difficult. People need to slow down. (30 car pileup last year in southern Quebec. Oops, I mean Vermont I-89.) 2. 4wd does not handle/steer the same as AWD. Larger turning radius and "jerky" response. At no time, is an AWD/4WD an excuse to drive fast on bad road conditions. I just got a 2024 1500 myself. It's not a mid-life crisis, nor for beating to death off-road. It's for handling everyday driving in the great white north.

[@Donslife]

Thanks for watching

[@done.bruton4766]

Answered all my questions, as a new owner of a 2020 Trailboss LT. Appreciate it.

[@Donslife]

You’re very welcome. Nice truck BTW

[@tbzrss]

I'm only 2 mins in but I love and trust your delivery...thanks for sharing. I'm going to show my kid this after I watch it.

[@Donslife]

Thank you. Those are some nice comments. For all my kids (4); I had them practice in a snowy parking lot to figure out how their vehicles would behave. Smash that like button and share!

[@jandkmace4952]

On my Raptor, I love using the power distribution screen when it looks scketchy. I always use 2H until ice or snow hits. Then its time to engage 4A and pull up the power distribution screen. It will show me how much power is being distributed to each wheel. As soon as the bars start to balance from the rear to the front.....esp. if I am on the highways, it is time to lay off the gas and let the truck settle down. I am able to run around with zero concern if I am being too aggressive just by being able to monitor when power is being transferred to front wheels and by how much to each wheel. It shows me before I can even feel it. I agree....I have hardly ever used 4H and don't know if I ever used 4L. (pulling a big boat off steep wet ramp would be my only situation I can think of). I agree with 100% of your post.....besides the GMC part. LOL

[@gunnersecuador7515]

It's also a good idea to exercise both axles periodically, to keep the valves working and the fluid moving in the transfer case.

[@Donslife]

Certainly!

[@CodyLynn100]

During the summer, when the 4-wheel drive system isn't usually in use, whenever there is a heavy rain, take your truck on the interstate or other high speed roadway and, when on a straight section, engage the auto/4-wheel drive. The wet roadway with higher speeds will allow the tires to slip a little when engaged. Switch back to 2-wheel if you get to a bend or the rain slows down, so you don't chance damage on grippy surface. Auto can of course be used more readily with any rain or loose/slick surface and doesn't need to be disengaged.

[@gunnersecuador7515]

@@CodyLynn100 Dude whenever in dought, read the owners manual. hard surfaces are a NO-NO. Yes, the rain will cause wheel slippage, but at what cost? Having an accident is not good for anyone. Besides if you own a 4x4 and don't take in the dirt there is little point in having it. I can always find some dirt, sand, etc. to exercise my transfer case. It's not worth the risk for me, but hey, you do you.

[@CrowT]

@@gunnersecuador7515 As long as you are driving STRAIGHT you will be fine. Even on a hard surface like concrete. Just make sure to turn it back to 2wd before you make any turns.

[@sidb9540]

@@CrowT 4X4 mode as far as my experince recalls, should NOT be used for speeds going 60- mph...

[@allenw969]

I used to visit the High Desert area in Southern California quite a bit. I found that driving on those sandy roads is a great way to learn to control a vehicle while it is sliding. I taught a number of teenagers to drive, and if I could I took them out to that area initially to teach them how to handle a car.

[@pizzasaurolophus]

even if off road, 4x4 high can be used if you need speed and momentum, like getting through snow/mud or up a hill. 4x4 low is when are stuck you need slow speed modulation, like 0.5-5 miles per hour to get over obstacles, and also important to read your manual, most trucks have special traction control modes for off road that are usually some combination of 4x4 low + traction control system disabled, and then some kind of brake lock differential will activate for off road mode.

[@trendingfactzzz]

This was actually a very helpful video for a first time truck owner getting ready for the Canadian winter! Thank you!

[@Donslife]

Glad it was helpful!

[@chriserickson4417]

Take the opportunity during the snow season and put it through the numbers. Make sure all the 4WD modes work. Don't wait til the last minute to see how or if it works. Give it a work out and for myself anyway, I keep it in 4WD "Auto" during the snow season and if I'm pulling cars from the snow banks, I put it in 4WD High or Low and if I'm buried (one time I was buried so deep, I had to open the windows to get out) I go with 4WD Low. Thanks for the video!

[@lawrencenoble8116]

We live in Florida, it rains a lot here. Me and my wife each drive four-wheel-drive trucks. On rainy days we use auto four-wheel-drive because the roads get slippery. Here in Florida all the roads flood very quickly. You need a truck that sits a little higher than cars. We feel much safer in a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

[@fidelbanuelos9601]

May I ask why not get an AWD vehicle?

[@apsiTV]

Great video. I have a 2020 1500 LT that I’m keeping stock and you just confirmed my decision.

[@dreamthyf]

Just bought my first truck, used 2015 Chevy Silverado 1500. Thank you for this video. I knew that it had 4x4, I really wanted it for adventuring and winter (had to park my CRV in a field till the neighborhood go plowed last year); but I did not know how to use it. Very excited for the future.

[@Donslife]

Glad I could help

[@TheNewenglandboys]

The added benefit of using 4 high is when letting off the gas on slippery conditions, the transmission help slow down the front wheels in addition to the rear.

[@Texas12valve]

I'm not sure about the GM trucks, but I know with Ram in 4auto, when you let off the gas, it engages the front diff, and when you hit the brakes, it engages it more.

[@danieldryden542]

I have a 2020 Colorado and use auto quite often and especially in rainy conditions. Auto provides better grip and stability in wet, snowy and even in multiple curved roads.

[@brianronayne7769]

Thanks so much! (and for replying so quickly) Stay warm this winter and safe driving. Cheers. Brian.

[@jaysway007]

I live in sunny Florida...not a fan of snow, but found myself super jealous of 4 wheel doughnuts in the snow😉

[@Donslife]

😂 I would miss the snow for that

[@Na0uta]

4 auto is a nice feature I wish I had too. but for the most part, I just put it in 4h and go till I see conditions are good enough to turn it off. that jerking you feel is the binding of the gear in the case. if I feel that. I know conditions are not quite right for 4h. but when you don't feel it doing that, you might feel it slipping a bit on the wheels. that's intentional, its the gears binding enough to put power out and spin freely to avoid damaging itself.

[@clubtc05]

Great Information, Just bought my first 4x4 truck (23 AT4 3L). Thank you for making this video!

[@Donslife]

This was intended for folks like you and those who are curious. Congrats on your first truck!!

[@poolfixer]

Thanks for making this video. I purchased a Tahoe with similar features you are demonstrating and was curious when to use them. Perfect timing as Winter weather is starting to hit the eastern United States. Thanks again!

[@luvslogistics1725]

I drove up in Canada in the winter down hills. Wheels, wheels my friends matter most then the transfer case. 4x4 helps going up hills. Take care ya hosers!

[@lawrencemalcheff9804]

Thanks for the video. I understand now i should be in 2WD 95% of the time.I live in Northern Michigan in Boyne City. We get some good snow and ice here. I just got a 2008 Nissan Titan for a work truck. 265,000 miles. It could use a good look at the transfer case, so I am trying to baby it. This vid helped a lot.

[@Donslife]

Thank you for watching the video

[@lawrencemalcheff9804]

@@Donslife Thanks again for the content!

[@plorks445]

Good video. I got a Pathfinder with the Auto function, LE trim, hoping I could use it for just this reason. Very glad I did. Already used it in intermittent snow and rain recently as I remembered this video as I was driving.

[@chinothedreamgiver1629]

Great video. The best video with accurate information. I watched many videos and they all had wrong information, to the extent I just went and took time to read my manual. And found out, all the other videos were not accurate, but yours is. Thanks again..

[@Donslife]

Thank you 🙏🏻 I appreciate it

[@dontpokethebear4190]

I drive in Calgary the conditions on the roads are poor at best. I keep my truck in Auto until the roads are cleared. There are patches of black ice underneath some snow patches.

[@wildbill23c]

I've had a few vehicles over the years with a couple different auto settings. My Explorer is in 4Auto all the time, but I have the ability to select 4hi part time and 4lo if needed. My 1st Jeep Grand Cherokee had full time 4WD with a viscous coupler in the transfer case that split power 48/52 typically during normal driving conditions, but had the capability to send full power to the front or rear if needed for traction....I also could select 4Lo if needed, but I had no 2WD option and no part time 4WD option other than low range. My 2nd Jeep Grand Cherokee had the upgraded 4WD system (Selec-Trac) which gave me 2WD, and both full time and part time 4WD high range, and low range as well. No fancy sensors or electronics...just a fully mechanical 4WD system, but I did have a rear limited slip differential in that one. I haven't had a pickup with a 4Auto or full time 4WD setting, all of my 4x4 pickups have only had 4hi and 4lo as well as 2WD....and most were manually shifted with manual locking hubs, lock the hubs the first snow of the season, usually September or October depending on if I went hunting or not, and then shift in and out of 4WD with the lever as needed, then usually I'd forget to unlock the hubs till around May or June LOL.

[@tro9490]

Great video. Just bought my 1st truck this yr, 14 Frontier Pro4X(doesn’t have auto). Had some idea about 4x4, but not enough. I was especially surprised by the speed limit in 4wd. I thought all the truck barrelling up the QE2 or out to the ski hills at 130 in January were in 4wd. Added better AT tires, some weight over the axel and now seem to get around most of Calgary winter in 2wd no problem. Thanks again.

[@Donslife]

No problem, You can drive at high speed in 4High. 4Low is limited by design. If you stay in 4High often, you’ll want to keep up on your inspections and fluid maintenance intervals.

[@tro9490]

Ok. I see a lot of articles that say don’t go over 100km in 4WD, just for liability?

[@Rjbc4]

Great video my friend. I just bought a 2023 Yukon XL, 4x4. I'm from Southern CA. Obviously, we never get snow. That said, we do plan on traveling to the snow. My question is, when do you need snow chains? Also, what tires would you apply the chains to? Thanks for the video, it answered many of my questions

[@Donslife]

Snow chains can usually fit most tires and you’d potentially want them on severe in severe ice/snow conditions and grades when your tires aren’t gripping.

[@jimcogil608]

Hi Don, thaks for the video. I just got a new 2024 Silverado similar to yours and was wondering how to use these fetures. Now I know and will be prepared for the first serious snow!

[@mikerayle6103]

Michigan guy I've only used auto a handful of times. I mostly do 55 or 70 not much in town driving. The times I've used auto where was when the roads have just started to melt and make slush but there are patches of only wet pavement if they are covered in snow and ice I'll keep it in 4h especially since I'm not making hard turns if that's the case I'll put it in 2wd. It really boils down to experience I have rarely maybe 2 times decided 4 low was appropriate. Lots of variables though tires and condition are the biggest. It is important for young drivers or people not used to driving in snow and if someone has bought a new vehicle to pick a parking lot and see how it handles as well.

[@Donslife]

I agree man

[@Jessehermansonphotography]

I don’t know why I wasted 20 min as I already know this stuff, But that’s a testament to your ability to present the information well. Great video for folks who don’t know these things and nice truck. Cheers!

[@russcayse3054]

Don, I enjoyed your video. One thing I would clarify. You mentioned 4L having "better traction", while driving through deep snow. That is a myth, obviously gear selection cannot affect tire friction with the road surface, and in fact there are some times when selecting a higher gear can decrease the chance of tires slipping. If you are trying to climb a hill, get going from a start, etc., with very limited traction (lots of power and torque are not needed), the key is to apply very smooth and consistent power to each wheel. Internal combustion engines do not produce very smooth and consistent power, think more like impact gun than electric motor. However, the fluid coupling of the torque converter can help smooth that power out. If the vehicle is in 4H you will have to use more engine RPM to initiate movement and with that higher RPM more smoothing will take place. Also, as torque spikes come though the transmission and into the transfer case/driveline they will be less likely to break tire traction in the higher range. Try this the next time you have to get started on a very steep and slippery hill. Put it in 4L and slowly and gently apply throttle until movement is achieved, test how easy it is to not break traction and get moving. Then switch to 4H and try again, slow and smooth throttle pressure. It will be much easier to control in 4H and you will be able to get speed more quickly without breaking traction. As long as you did not overheat the trans fluid you didn't hurt anything or cause wear, you just made better use of your torque converter. The same thing can be achieved in a manual transmission to a lesser degree, use 2nd or third to limit torque spikes. Often better than 1st at getting un-stuck. Maybe not the best to do to a manual trans clutch, but if a gentle start in 2nd gets you out when 1st would not, hopefully not a significant clutch wear event. In addition, I tell drivers to be careful with those "4 auto" settings because whatever clutch or engagement device is being used to connect the front axle when rear axle slippage is detected is subject to wear or breakage. Auto 4WD is better than 4H or 4L for driving at speed around curves on slippery surfaces, because those 4H and 4L settings force the front and rear driveshafts to turn the same speed, even though the front tires travel further on a curve. That results in forced tire slippage in 4H and 4L on curves (the choppy turning you demonstrated), and could cause a vehicle to loose control on a curve in 4H or 4L that it could have successfully negotiated at the same speed in 4 auto or 2WD. But, if 4 auto is being used and the rear driveshaft very quickly increases speed (heavy throttle on ice) and then the front axle is engaged a lot of force is put on those engaging components to very quickly bring the front axle up to the same speed (possible big bang and broken parts).

[@Donslife]

Thank Russ. It was a tricky video to make while keeping it accessible to people that have never used these options, but have had them for some time. I agree with your statements too. It reminded all the times in my youth getting started in deep snow with a manual tran. Depending on the vehicle, sometimes a 3rd gear start was the smoothest way to get out.

[@robertwood9628]

Thank you very much for such an informative video. I have a 2020 1 ton GMC Denali that i bought when i lived in So. Calif. Asked the salesman to explain the whens and when nots about 4wd and auto modes. He wasn't sure because it never snows where we lived at the beach. Now I live in northern Utah and we recently had our first snow of the season. I put it in 4H to get out of my driveway and drove around town like that. Thanks to your excellent video I will now use the AUTO function . Great job!!!

[@orangeblock3792]

This video is awesome, I love it. You are so intelligent and you explain everything clearly and with patience. Thank you!

[@Donslife]

I am glad you liked it. I tried to be detailed and make something for people new to these features

[@darrellpatton3549]

You have helped me out a lot , I just bought a 2002 Chevy avalanche and it has the Auto 4 wheel drive and the 4 high and the 4 low and it also has the 2 high and I was wondering when I should shift into the 4 high , you have helped me out a lot so I really do appreciate your videos and your doing such a great job 👍👍👍👍 Thank you very much 👍👍👍👍

[@Donslife]

Thank you so much! Glad you found the video helpful

[@johnwinter9722]

Well done. Good video. Just remember to turn off Auto when the pavement dries up. An old mechanic friend from a Chevy dealership reminded me that Auto is not AWD. When Auto is on the truck is actually in 4WD and the transaxles will wear prematurely on dry pavement.

[@Infiniteperspective1111]

FYI to beginners, it wasn’t really mentioned that there is absolutely nothing wrong leaving your vehicle in AWD during any type of road conditions that limit your traction, any rain, slush, snow, ice, mud including intermittent such as the possibility of hitting black ice etc. the reason there is AWD is because it is safe for the vehicle to stay in AWD even on dry pavement. So when in doubt, you are more safe in AWD than 2WD.

[@jko0526]

I was just going to ask about that. I have a 22 GMC Sierra and this is the first truck I have owned with 4 wheel auto. I was going to ask if you could use it on the open highway. My work commute is 40 miles of highway with a speed limit of 55 mph. I have to be to work on some days by 6am. There have been mornings where the plows haven’t had a chance to get the highway completely clean or they have and the next morning it’s windy and the snow we got from the day before is blowing across the highway in certain areas.

[@Donslife]

Totally agree with the use of AWD with vehicles like this. If you aren’t sure, it might be better to keep it on. The intent of the video was to share some basic functionality. Tires, tire inflation, weight distribution, acceleration habits, driver experience, etc can all influence the vehicle’s behavior.

[@killer2600]

Auto 4WD and AWD (All Wheel Drive) are two different things. AWD vehicles don't have 2 HI or any other 4WD selections.

[@leoa1590]

Thank you for this comment. I was worried it would damage the transfer case or transmission. The vehicle stays in the mode you select and one time I went a few weeks on auto 4WD until I finally noticed and switched it back to 2WD. The truck runs and feels just fine. Hard to noticed the difference on dry pavement.

[@rangerover06sc]

@@killer2600 4 Auto is exactly the same as AWD in fact the 4 auto system in my Infiniti was pulled straight from a Nissan sports car. There are lots of different AWD systems. 4 auto works like a lot of high performance sports cars do where they start off in RWD as use a clutch pack to give you variable amounts of traction to the front, which is exactly how this works

[@BenotzJoe]

Watching this on 2x playback speed is absolutely terrifying. As others mentioned, 4 Low is not for snow or mud. It's generally for terrain that is so rough that you cannot go slow enough in high range to avoid bouncing all over the place. Most people never need to worry about using it.

[@donvoll2580]

Good day from Ontario. I had 2013 gm 4 wheel lever manual. Bought 2019 & it has buttons like yours. That auto is good art corners but on straight away, I think it is fooling you, by staying in 2 drive u are alittle more aware of road conditions. Thanks good video.

[@tytomlinson7831]

I have an 07 Chevy Silverado half ton. It has the auto. I love it and use it regularly here in Colorado.

[@lowermichigan4437]

Good advice. 2wd most of the time Auto 4wd when you might slip 4wd when you know you will slip 4 low. Off road when you need more control and will be moving slow. With a 10 speed transmission I am not sure how necessary 4 low really is.

[@Donslife]

Thanks for checking out the video

[@Grendelbc]

I sincerely hope you have a good coat of wax on the body and a serious coating of Fluid Film or something similar on the underside of that expensive vehicle. You did a fine job of explaining. Many folks seem to forget that 4 wheel drive doesn't make the brakes any better. As you certainly know, traction control and 'auto 4wd' or even 'all wheel drive' differ from one manufacturer to another. Some are better than others. They are a nice feature for on road vehicles but not so much for serious off road enthusiasts.

[@ndemarco26]

This is a great video! I recently got my first truck (2018 Silverado LTZ Z71) and took it out with the recent snow storm in upstate NY. Most of this info regarding the transfer case was unbeknownst to me, but i assumed 4H was for fast speeds and 4L is for low speed situations. Well I was using 4H and turning felt super jerky, truck was also very noisy. Well the roads i were driving on were mostly down to the pavement and there wasn’t much snow/ice. I did some research because i thought something was wrong with the truck.. came across your video and i have to say thanks for a simple informative explanation. I will now just stay in 2wd or use auto when coming across these situations. I was using 4H when the roads had too much transaction, causing a bit of a binding in the drivetrain.

[@Donslife]

Glad there was some useful info there! Auto is okay too if you need to leave it on for intermittent periods throughout the day. You just wouldn’t want to leave it on when 2wd would be perfectly safe

[@ndemarco26]

@@Donslife 🤙🏼right on man good stuff

[@rli720]

@@Donslife Question man!!!' How fast can u go in auto!?!!?????

[@Donslife]

As fast as your tires are rated. Going highway speeds is not an issue

[@bamaknifeguy]

Every one of us truck guys have that inner teenage boy that can’t help but do donuts in an empty parking lot 😂🤘🏼 Yea Buddy !!!! Great video and very educational. Thank you. I always wondered what would happen if I accidentally hit my 4⬇️ button while driving in 2022 Silverado Trail Boss. Apparently it would give me a prompt like it did with you I imagine. I with you would included Drive Modes (off-road, sport) in conjunction with the transfer case modes to see if you saw any noticeable differences in throttle response, steering etc.

[@goforgoldsproductsltd2095]

Don i lived by aspen ridge right beside your neighborhood 3 mins away I also have a 2023 tahoe rst diesel...when I watched this video the first minute I was like ,wait I know those streets and and schools..by the way good job on showing us how to use 4x4's helps me a lot specially for a beginner like me..keep it up don..stay warm out there. I'm your new subscriber..

[@Donslife]

Haha! Hello neighbor! Say hi if you see me out there!

[@goforgoldsproductsltd2095]

@@Donslife absolutely 💯 haha

[@curtiscorzine5718]

Just got me a new to me Colorado ZR2 and this was very informative.

[@urbanmechanic9254]

I love 4 auto because I can tell my wife when she takes the truck in winter of course just put it in auto and then I have piece of mind that she will get where she is going. Also I'm not afraid to use it at highway speeds just incase of ice or slush in the middle or passing lanes. Like I said piece of mind.

[@MMikeHD3904]

Ya OR , could just use 4 x4 instead of having engaging when you aren't ready for it, that's hard to case!

[@urbanmechanic9254]

@@MMikeHD3904 yeah but she complains about it turning hard and I don't like going 80 mph in 4 hi so it's my preference and I'm happy with it

[@philncider8077]

Lol! Or piece of mind of not breaking it.

[@iffykidmn8170]

@@urbanmechanic9254 If road conditions are such that you can drive 80mph you do not need 4 wheel.

[@justinsalazar9070]

I love this because here in Texas we rarely get tons of snow……… I just got back from Colorado they had just about same snow. I have a 2 wheel drive Silverado 23 with some new TKO tires. Whole time driving I slipped once and that was it. Proved my point of you know how to drive your pick up and you’re not in a jungle or 1-5 feet of snow there really ain’t no mead for it. Tons of dudes buying fully loaded trucks and making them look ungodly just to sit and never get used. To each thier own but I’m really glad I didn’t over pay for a pick up truck. No way in hell was I dropping more than 50k

[@carryeveryday910]

Just objectively wrong lol. When it rains at my job the area we work in gets extremely muddy. My co worker swears he only needs his 2wd. Funny enough we have to pull him out multiple times a week lmao.

[@chrismair8161]

My first 4 by4 came with wise words. (She will not stop faster Son. Leave room.) My Grandfather had so many wise words.

[@mikeryan5088]

I wish we had a Tim Hortons down here near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Love that place.

[@Sycophantix]

Crazy I came across your video. Was looking for some extra clarity for driving my 4WD truck properly after these heavy snowfalls. Surprised to see the exact same streets that I drive through Saskatoon (University Heights / Evergreen)! Cheers!

[@Donslife]

Glad I could help!

[@thatelectritian]

My best recommendation is studded tires, I had an AWD wagon and i had hakkapeliitta 10 studded tires and I was able to stop on a "dime" and take off very quickly. the best part was turning, I was able to make a 90⁰ turn going 50 with no tire slip (on a lake with pylons to mimic an intersection). Long story short car was costing too much with premium gas and imported parts and being 20 years old so I decided to get a 4x4 truck and it came with top of the line non studded tires. With 2wd going 20km/h around a 90⁰ turn with just slight throttle I was accidentally drifting corners, with 4wd auto I was able to go 30km/h with less than 25% throttle with no slip. God damn do I miss studded tires they have saved my ass more times than there are wires in both of my cars together.

[@lowermichigan4437]

I wish we could have studded tires in Michigan. Our dirt roads are icy right now. Icy enough I am shopping for chains for the tractor.

[@hexhead5732]

The last part of this video is the fun part thank you for this info on 4x4 driving 👍

[@Donslife]

The end was the fun part! 😂 Thank you. Some tidbits of info, all which can be found in the manual too.

[@gigievans395]

Very helpful 💯❤️ I purchased a 2013 Chevy Silverado 1500 4x4 with no owners manual unfortunately. I knew my 2000 Ford Expo like the back of my hand but this Chevy has tons of bells n whistles I'm not familiar with! This was helpful for this old school locking hubs kinda girl!

[@Donslife]

Very glad you found the video! My last truck was a 2013 Sierra Denali

[@edwardhousemaniii2732]

Look on ebay for a owners manual 😀

[@billredding2000]

I wish I had 4-Auto in my Jeep, but most of them didn't come with it (it was an option) and I got my Jeep off the lot so it came as-is. But that's okay, I have other "off-road & inclement weather" capabilities so it's no big deal. The tires are OEM/factory (33" Falken Wildpeak AT3W) and they seem to do well in the snow. Never had an occasion (serious) where I needed 4L (not into the hard-core 4x4ing scene), but I do use it occasionally on dirt/gravel forest/fire roads just to "exercise" it even if 4L isn't needed on them -- AND drive very slowly....not to mention avoiding sharp turns (or turning at all) to avoid crow-hopping (and excessive drive-train wear or possible drive-train damage). However, PUTTING it in 4 low is kind of an art...not at all easy like a push-button and sometimes several tries are needed (could be just me though even following Jeep's instructions). So most of the time I'm in 2H, and when it snows -- and covers the road or there's only occasional pavement -- I put it in 4H just for a bit more traction for safety/stability. But I NEVER drive very fast in 4H, so keep it slow & steady, especially in a white-out blizzards Colorado sometimes get and I'm caught in one while out & about. BTW, nice house & neighborhood there (Canada). "Jeep Wave" ...even though you don't have a Jeep. ;-) -- BR

[@clarencewhite2314]

VERY INFORMATIVE...THANKS. I'VE EXPERIENCED A MEASURE OF JERKINESS WHEN I HAVE THE STEERING WHEEL TURNED TOO. 4 WHEEL DRIVE AUTO is a CONVENIENCE to have,but NOT ALL TRUCKS have that setting. GOOD REVIEW.

[@Donslife]

Thank you. Each have their benefits

[@prestonvilla3837]

This is an excellent video, I’m very familiar with the four-wheel-drive selections, especially in the GMC family. Very good explanation in the different 4-wheel Drive settings.

[@nhlcfl7733]

Lots of opinions. Here’s mine with some engineering background and living in Northern Alberta. Read a comment about someone thinking that 4Auto from GMC/Chevy is making the transfer case go into 4WD Hi, fortunately this is incorrect. Because GMC incorporates a slip differential it actually is a form of AWD (there are so many variants that this qualifies as well). The slip means there is no concern with wheels turning at the same speed particularly on dry surfaces. Negative comments about GMC Auto system are typically because one has not researched this well or is a Ford owner who does not have this available. Ram has a similar option with theirs. In the end, I would not turn the Auto ON and Off while driving in winter for example because you cannot respond fast enough in an emergency situation. For the benefit of safety that Auto can provide, I like many I’ve met, leave it on during winter. The wear on differential will only be a concern if you don’t change its oil as recommended and after a few 100 thousand kilometres. Worth leaving it on during winter or gravel roads. GMC/Chevy trucks also offer this Auto option in their HD trucks.

[@Doc1855]

I have to have my pickup in 4WD just to get up our private road and into our garage every winter. I only use my 4WD when I have to. We’re 5 miles from town and our county road is the last one to get plowed, so we’re always in 4WD usually until we get into town. Sometimes during heavy snow fall the plows can’t keep up so everyone drives slowly on the highway so I’m usually in 4WD during those times as well. I never switch into 4WD on dry pavement.

[@tomrunning357]

Auto FWD is helpful for those icy overpasses that catch you off guard especially when pulling a trailer. The wobbling in the front end is the ujoints binding up from the extreme turning angle.

[@animefan7931]

The wobble is from a locked differential. Both wheels are trying to spin at the same speed. The outside tire cannot spin at the same speed as the inside tire though a sharp turn when the diff is locked. Has nothing to do with the u-joints. If this was the case my FWD Prius, and every FWD vehicle would have binding issues with tight turns. Also, it's Auto 4WD not Auto FWD

[@seangallagher3100]

Great video and very useful information Don. I also have a AT4 and I always wonder how other people run there transfer-case. Thanks for making this video and answering my question.

[@scoobydoo3217]

New truck owner here, thanks for the tips brother

[@dannyo6699]

In North Dakota, we had probably similar weather as to what hit Edmondton, we got a lot of snow over a couple days and it was a couple days until the streets in my hometown in SWND were cleared. We got well around 12 inches of snowfall the first night, or 30cm. My 99 Silverado has basically the same 4X4 system as the new GMC/Chevrolet pickups have. I believe the 99 Silverado/Sierra was the first year this system was offered with the Auto 4X4 engage. However the 6.2L wasn't available at that time, mine is the 5.3L. It's also an extended cab long box so it may be slightly longer wheel base than this truck. I was able to get out both days of the storm and my wife and I did make it to work with the pickup, but I had just left it in 4X4 High, I didn't engage Auto 4X4. But being it was as cold as it was, I did start out in 4X4 Low just to maintain slow speeds. When I was out on the streets after driving for a few minutes, I did switch to 4X4 High to complete the drive to work, and we got around just fine. I'd have no concerns about using Auto 4X4 but due to the conditions, I decided to just run 4X4. We usually don't get a huge amount of snow this early in the season, but sometimes it does happen. I guess it was just our turn this year. Great explanation of how and when to use the system. Too bad you didn't have some deep snow to drive it through to more accurately demonstrate how to use the system and why depending on conditions.

[@Donslife]

I am sure I could do a follow up at some point…

[@dannyo6699]

@@Donslife Yea, we could have a lot of winter this season yet.

[@MikeJones-cf4wu]

Thank don very informative I have a 2021 slt with all the bells and whistles. I keep it in 2 wheel Drive. But you just gave me some good advice. All your videos and upgrades are very helpful. I wish I could give you a 💯

[@MMikeHD3904]

I'm Canada, never use auto 4 wheel drive, it's all or non, keep having your transfer case engaging when the tires slip, hard engaging Is a good way to take out the t case! IMO

[@Donslife]

All the time 4 high will increase your fluid maintenance intervals too. We had a 10” dump of snow. It is 4 high for me this morning

[@MMikeHD3904]

@@Donslife ya i don't even use 4 high a whole lot, it's 2 wheel drive or to conditions like unless we get a bunch of snow, people just don't know how to winter drive lol

[@Hydra360ci]

Umm... if your 4x4 has the "auto 4x4" button... it's not the same type of 4x4 transfer case that the older stuff used. It's a completely different design than the traditional stuff. Such transfer cases are more AWD than 4WD. Designed more around hard surfaces than driving thru mud/sand pits. It's a weaker 4x4 system, but extremely forgiving and user/pavement friendly. Also...it's locked 4x4 mode is a lie, compared to a traditional transfer case. Computer is always in control, and will disengage wheels as it sees fit, in all modes. If you want the traditional 4x4 system... then you have to be sure that Auto 4x4 isn't an option. I don't follow makes... but I know all the 2500 Rams still use the older transfer case and you can still find the linkage shifter in them, too; with the push button ones being an upgrade, option. Personally... I like the late 80's transfer case.. the ones that would disengage the front driveshaft when in 2x4 mode. Don't think anyone makes that style, anymore.

[@lemmy37]

I use auto 4 almost all winter here in Saskatchewan, it’s great.

[@christopherrhen401]

Using auto all the time is a good way to get a $4500.dollar bill from the dealership for a warn out transfer case , I never use Auto , Only if I’m worried about black ice occasionally over bridges. If it’s used all the time it goes in out in out and wears out the clutches in the transfer case

[@timd3046]

💯 Great info Don! I live in the Midwest USA and no white stuff yet. It amazes me how many “experts” say not to use 4 auto, I think it is a great feature, been using it for 20 years on my 01 Silverado, and will use it on my 21 Sierra as well

[@Donslife]

Thanks, if it is used as suggested on stock suspension and in the appropriate conditions, there really should be much issue

[@timd3046]

@@Donslife on my 01 Silverado 1500 with autotrac I actually have the 4” Rancho suspension lift, which is actually closer to 6”, with 33’s, no issues in 20 plus years

[@timd3046]

Nothing wrong with a good doughnut every now and then…😀

[@Donslife]

Ya the 1500 AT4 2” factory lift being leveled can be problematic for Auto4wd (in some cases). A big can of worms 🐛

[@bijk1911]

@@timd3046 Not to be a smarty but an actual lift kit usually has much better (more even, flat) CV angles than a larger leveling kit (2.5 or 3 inch). auto 4wd is great. One thing I love about my Silverado that my f150 and ram 1500 did not have.

[@blackened1031]

This amount of snow and ice is considered summer up on the North where I live in. People usually roam around with little clothings on a 120hp or less 2wd vehicle if the snow is only this much. We only choose to drive less than 30Mph when there's a Blizzard going over us for 2 days or more and there's like 3 feet or more snow on the road. 4wd is only reserved when you get buried with snow in the parking lot.

[@codyhussey1461]

The ending of this video made my day wasn’t expecting it 😂

[@Donslife]

When there is snow…How could I not?

[@torontocpl]

Like other Canadians 🇨🇦 in the comments.. I was handed the car keys at the age of 12 in an empty parking lot during the first snow storm of the season .. yes it was fun but you quickly learned how to handle the car .. fast forward my career as a driver trainer (A class) & diesel mechanic etc and living up near HudsonBay (Ontario) where our winters last 9 months👉🏼I engage my jeeps 4 x 4 high first sign of snow and leave it on until the last day of winter 9 months later.. My Hummer H1 and H2 are 4 wheel drive all the time so nothing changes unless I need to plow through 6 feet of snow👉🏼then it goes into 4wheel low Cheers from HudsonBay area Temp -37c & 42cm fresh snow & 68km winds

[@Donslife]

Great share! Thank you 🙏🏻

[@michaelbefumo-qg7ji]

How does the Hummer H2 a couple of snow.

[@jonkirkwood469]

The second most surprising thing I saw was houses without garages in snow country. The most surprising thing was he wasn't driving a loaded U-Haul headed for warmer climes.

[@CSltz]

Nice video and nice truck. This will be my second winter with my 2017 Silverado Ltz. In all honesty I had two wheel drive in my trucks before. And didn’t have that much trouble. Through the years. One thing that I would consider not doing is using the parking brake. When we lived in Michigan seems like that was just something that you didn’t do. Brakes would freeze with the salt thawing and refreezing. A block heater was a necessity. Only two seasons in Michigan…Winter and gonna be winter.! It’s not all that better here in Illinois.

[@Woodshedphilosophy]

Here in Iowa we get huge drifts from the constant wind. The roads may be clear but you randomly run into drifts up to 5 feet deep. I stay in 4 high so I can speed up and bust through them

[@guanobucks]

My father always said if you get stuck in 2wd u have 4x4 to get you out. If you drive around in 4x4 and get stuck, you will be calling for a tow…

[@josephvoytus3694]

Have been driving OH/PA winters for almost 40yrs. The ONLY times i use 4wd in my trucks over the years were at stop lights on inclines. Maybe 4-5-6 times a winter. Maybe another 5-6 times driving during/after major snowstorms. And really probably haven't needed it the last handful of winters around here. Not like winters back in the 70's into the 80s.

[@kenbearsley8322]

Excellent video. I live here in New Zealand, slightly different from Canada. Agree with you with the driving experience. Through winter in the south island here is very similar to Canada's winter. We do have a number of un tarsealed (gravel) roads in country areas which would suit 4 auto in summer. Possibly 4 high Through winter. I personally would leave vehicle in 4 auto for new or learner drivers through winter.

[@reallythough4591]

Hello New Zealand! Visited your paradise in early 2000. Took me a while to get used to wrong side drive, and the one at a time single lane bridges were totally new to me. Nicest people I've ever met, in the most beautiful country in the world. Rotorua is amazing.

[@kenbearsley8322]

@@reallythough4591 rotorua is a stink hole. A typical tourist trap. Nz is ok. Damed expensive for living, especially food, housing and power

[@reallythough4591]

@@kenbearsley8322 being the most volcanically active place in the world(at the time) the sulfur smell was pungent. I rented a car and did both islands. I don't remember the name of the hotel, but I remember a free drink every night at the pig and whistle. I met a couple from Norway on the first stop of my round the globe trip, in Tahiti, then picked them up again in NZ. I enjoyed every aspect of the country thoroughly, including Rotorua. Paddled down the river thru Christchurch, and rented a house on the beach in Wellington for a couple nights. The world cup yacht race was going on. NZ is spectacular. One of my fondest memories.

[@normanrhone142]

Thanks very much Don. I live in a tropical country, and drive a four wheel drive vehicle, this information is still very helpful fpr me. Thanks for your effort to make this video.

[@Donslife]

My pleasure!

[@normanrhone142]

@@Donslife most respect sir.

[@klingoncowboy4]

Excellent beginners guide. Essentially this matches my own experience. Except I have never have had issues with jerkyness mostly driving Dodges. Also my 2012 RAM doesn't need me to mess with neutral using 4 low. But the general idea of when and how to use each mode is definitely sound.

[@Donslife]

Thanks for checking out the channel, I appreciate it

[@christianhurtado6095]

Auto is two wheel when you don’t need it the truck decides based on traction. Feel free to leave it on Auto for the winter. Rest a sure you will be in two wheel more than 90 percent of the time just like your normal.

[@gravyboatcaptain2292]

Bought a 2020 Ram Big Horn today. Your video has been excellent in helping me understand how this truck functions. Thanks, Don, very informative and helpful.

[@PeteNice29]

Engaged 4HI on freshly covered and untreated roads. Once the salt was down and traffic chopped it up, went back to auto.

[@AlaskaErik]

I'm from Alaska and I just leave my Silverado in Auto 4WD for around town driving once we have snow that sticks. The only time I go to 2WD in winter is when I'm on the highway going to the big city in between snowstorms. I use 4HI after a snowfall before the plows clear the streets. I don't use 4LO during winter. It's more for mud and sand. I've had three GM trucks with Auto 4WD over the past 22 years and it's an awesome system. Sorry, Toyota and Nissan owners, decades later your trucks cannot be had with Auto 4WD.

[@Donslife]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@jeffstone7912]

I put some weight in the bed of my 2wd pick up truck and get around very good on paved or maintained gravel or dirt roads during winter conditions. However I’m very conservative and don’t attempt to do anything stupid. There are so many people that think they must have four-wheel-drive. I owned four-wheel-drive vehicles before and rarely ever engaged the transfer case. I found myself engaging the transfer case just to keep everything lubricated.

[@paulcondie2520]

My daily work vehicle is a 93 ranger 2wd. I have studded winter tires and have never got stuck in the 13 years I've had it. With a few concrete blocks and my snowblower in the bed it's impressive! It does have limited slip which does help! I leave my 4+4 pavement princess in the garage to stay salt free!!! Lol

[@chuseinchau]

very informative and factual video. Thanks. and love the donuts!

[@Donslife]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@ChrisDIYerOklahoma]

SOLID video...great tips! I only use "AUTO" when it is raining and I need more grip. Works perfectly. Dry pavement fun question: have you noticed a performance gain when you turn off traction control, stability control (ESC), be in "SPORT" mode, and L8? For some reason, mine seems to perk up nicely and reacts faster (ie - way more fun). I have pretty much the same set up as you do (Bilstein shocks/struts, CAI, Pulsar LT, exhaust, etc-etc). I am also still running Race Fuel mix with 91-octane...huge difference in giddy-up! Stay warm Don...Tim Horton's is awesome!

[@johnhawkins3986]

Thank you for this I been looking for something like this grown man advice

[@Doc1855]

Last January we had a big snow storm (3ft in 10 hours). We already had 2 ft on the ground, so I had to dig down to open the door on my pickup. I put it in 4 low and literally pushed the snow with my bumper and tailgate to get out so I could wait for the road to be plowed to get to town. I was surprised that my Ranger was able to do it. But I suppose that’s why we’re on our 4th Ranger. Their just good durable mid sized pickup’s. That was the only time I had it in 4low

[@Donslife]

I loved my Ranger too. Too small for my lifestyle now

[@johnkendall6962]

One thing to note. Most trucks even new one don't have auto mode. It's just 2 hi 4 hi N or 4 lo. If my wheels were spinning on normal acceleration. I put it in 4 hi but where I live there are steep hills and mountain passes to drive through. I usually only used 4 lo off road and not very often even then. The last time I used 4 lo was to pull out fence posts on a property we bought. The time before that was to pull my friends large trailer from behind his house where he stored it off season. The grass was wet and his truck was only 2 wheel drive. I'm actually to the point I want to find a 4 wheel drive truck from the late 60s to early 70s and fix it up. What little electronics it has are up high and wading through streams I don't need to worry.

[@Donslife]

Lots of variety out there for sure

[@lazy_503_9]

very true on the lift kit explanation. From experience

[@Donslife]

Thank you for checking out the video and dropping a comment!