Getting to Know Your Jeep_® Brand Off-Road Vehicle

Here’s an easy-to-use guide to your off-roading vehicle.

So: you’ve just purchased or leased your first Jeep_® Brand vehicle, you’ve seen social media posts of sunbaked influencers enjoying amazing views—you’re ready to go off-roading!

Several Jeep® Brand vehicles allow the driver to shift between two-wheel drive (also called “2WD”) and four-wheel drive (“4WD”). When driving in high range--which is common in most driving scenarios--they're called 2H and 4H, with ‘H’ meaning ‘high range driving.” Each has their benefits, and shifting from one to the other can be a little confusing to new off-roaders. Here are a few things to know:

2H is good for everyday drives on paved roads without much resistance. Only the rear wheels spin during 2H Driving. This is the driving you’re doing 99% of the time when you’re just heading to the grocery store (or library or gym or wherever).

4H is for situations where you need more traction. 4H engages all four wheels of the vehicle, forcing the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed helping to provide extra traction and stability. This is most helpful during off-road situations, steep inclines, loose terrain like gravel or sand, or during slippery weather situations like snow or ice. Driving with 4H on typical paved roads can also put unnecessary stress on your tires and drivetrain. Driving with 4H is not recommended on typical paved roads because it can put unnecessary stress on your tires and drivetrain.

Shifting from 2WD to 4WD can be done when the vehicle is stopped or in motion. The preferred shifting speed would be 0 to 45 mph (72 km/h), so you really shouldn’t do it on the highway. With the vehicle in motion, the transfer case (if equipped) will engage/disengage faster if you momentarily release the accelerator pedal after completing the shift. Do not accelerate while shifting the transfer case. Apply a constant force when shifting the transfer case lever.

Important things to remember: Do not attempt to make a shift while only the front or rear wheels are spinning. The front and rear driveshaft speeds must be equal for the shift to take place. Shifting while only the front or rear wheels are spinning can cause damage to the transfer case. Delayed shifts out of four-wheel drive may be experienced due to uneven tire wear, low or uneven tire pressures, excessive vehicle loading, or cold temperatures. Shifting effort will increase with speed—don't worry, that’s normal.

Share it online and help other drivers on their next off-roading adventure!

The Mopar_® eStore has the Jeep_® Brand Performance Parts needed to customize your off-roading experience.

Want to learn more? Check out some other articles from the Jeep_® Brand.