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

Подписаться 45 тыс.

Просмотров 646 тыс.

50% 1

In this video I share when I would typically use the various drive modes on my GMC Sierra AT4, especially driving in snow.
Sifting through forums, I see many people ask when or if they should use AUTO 4WD, 4 High or 4 Low
These are my opinions and are also aligned with information found in the owner's manual.
Amazon Links - www.amazon.com/shop/donslife
Donslife Swag Hub (Merch) : donslife.myshopify.com
#4wd #auto #snow
Contact me for questions, collaborations and product reviews:
Amazon Links - www.amazon.com/shop/donslife
linktr.ee/donslife
Instagram: / donslifechannel
email : donslifechannel@gmail.com
Product Links:
Radenso Pro M Radar Detector : amzn.to/3EEz1oz
Universal Mirror Tap : amzn.to/3q8X9aB
Megulla Interior Ambient LEDs : amzn.to/3zjynbS
Under Hood Light Kit : amzn.to/3brYkOh
XPEL Paint Protection Film : amzn.to/3LjPaiW
Thinkware Q800 Pro here (US) : amzn.to/3MHTmtJ
Tailgate Step Lights US : amzn.to/3uucAwY
Tailgate Step Lights CAN : amzn.to/35ZQSr9
Auxbeam 3" LED Pod / Ditch Lights : shrsl.com/3nnvv (Code : Dons or Donslife)
Auxbeam 8-pod Rock Lights : shrsl.com/3m36a (Code : Dons or Donslife)
Auxbeam LED Switch Panel : shrsl.com/3m35z (Code : Dons or Donslife)
Rough Country 20" Black Series Dual Row Cree LED Light Bar w/Cool White DRL - 70920BD: - Out of Stock on Amazon
Putco 529005 Blade Quick Connect Harness For 2019+ Silverado/Sierra 1500: amzn.to/33EMvjX
amzn.to/3g8EGWB
Bilstein 5100 Front Shock Absorbers for AT4 & Trailboss amzn.to/3pgGVN7
Burger Motorsports BMS Stage 1 Tune (BMW) :
burgertuning.com/?rfsn=620226...
Dragy GPS Performance Meter :
dragymotorsports.com/?rfsn=57...
Fog Light Mod - GM Sierra : boostautoparts.com/
Get SLIPLO Here : amzn.to/3sjrZ0l
Exhaust : Here is a link for a louder version (ATAK) on Amazon. Mine is part 140774BC (BC = Black Chrome Tips). So many versions to pick from - do your research!
Borla-140775 Silverado/Sierra 1500 6.2L 2019 Cat Back Exhaust ATAK: amzn.to/3l9VYq6
AirLift 88388 LoadLifter 5000 for AT4 & TrailBoss : amzn.to/3wZnIQy
Air Lift 25980EZ WirelessONE Compressor : amzn.to/3y09CzI
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android by Lemur Vehicle Monitors : amzn.to/3mtC8Vz
Veepeak OBDII Bluetooth Scanner for BMW/Bimmercode App: amzn.to/31V91kl
Veepeak OBDII Bluetooth Scanner 4.0 for BMW/Bimmercode App: amzn.to/31SIHaw
Hyperdip for emblems, wheels and trim: www.dipyourcar.com?ref=872
Plasti Dip for emblems, wheels and trim: www.dipyourcar.com?ref=872
Tint, vinyl, tools, and bolt on mods used on my vehicles products:
VViViD Premium Utility Blade (my favorite): amzn.to/39TIUP3
3M Knifeless Tape: amzn.to/3dHMlti
VViViD Smoke Black: amzn.to/3rXYno7
VViViD Dark Black : amzn.to/3d3tlH5
VViViD HEX+ Dark Smoke : amzn.to/3ae1bqW
VViViD HEX+ Light Smoke : amzn.to/2N18WHQ
Ronin Bullet Antenna Ford/Dodge : amzn.to/3mvoukM
Ronin Bullet Antenna Chevy/GM : amzn.to/3dMakYb
BMW Red M Buttons: amzn.to/3uuXyUS
BMW Red Start/Stop Button: amzn.to/3rZVuTg
Nextbase Dashcam HardwireKit: amzn.to/3mvpiGk
GMC Sierra AT4/SLT Chrome Grill Overlay (can be painted): amzn.to/3tcEdaZ
GMC Sierra AT4/SLT Chrome Grill Overlay Gloss Black: amzn.to/3wzalHI
Shine Armor Quick Coat Ceramic Coating: amzn.to/2OASS0j
DOSE Spider Silk: amzn.to/3h7v2EB
or VViViDshop.com
VVIVID Fuse 5 year 9H High Ceramics Hydrophobic Coating: amzn.to/2Rg1JFE
BMW F-Chassis BMS Hub Centric Wheel Spacers: amzn.to/322OTwF
BAK BAKFlip G2 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover: amzn.to/3qWuzLj
BAK BAKFlip MX4 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover: amzn.to/3s6rl4H
CTEK (56-926) Lithium US 12 Volt Charger: amzn.to/3gcuiP1
Richeer 1.5" Wheel Spacers for GMC 1500: amzn.to/3t4OJRn
Rexing V5 4K Budget Dash Cam : amzn.to/3Acvxou
Product websites:
VViViD Vinyl : vvividshop.com
Canada : vvividshop.ca/
Avery Vinyl : www.instawrapshop.ca/
K&N Filters : www.knfilters.com/ Canada : www.knfilters.ca/
S&B FIlters Part # 75-5128 www.sbfilters.com/cold-air-in...
www.coldairinductions.com/
Disclaimer: Some links may be affiliate links, meaning I earn a commission when you make a purchase. Thank you for the support!
Music Credits:
RU-vid Audio Library
Bliss by MusicbyAden | / musicbyaden
Music promoted by www.free-stock-music.com
Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported
creativecommons.org/licenses/...

Авто/Мото

Опубликовано:

5 ноя 2022

Ссылка:

Скачать:

Готовим ссылку...

Добавить в:

Мой плейлист

Посмотреть позже

Комментарии : 806

@Donslife 10 месяцев назад

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

@chrisgraham2904 Год назад

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 Год назад

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

@Donslife Год назад

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 Год назад

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 Год назад

@@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 Год назад

@@grejen711 that last part was not needed

@jimpulcine9925 Год назад

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.

@allenw969 Год назад

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.

@poolfixer Год назад

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!

@trendingfactzzz Год назад

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

@Donslife Год назад

Glad it was helpful!

@ARFuse Год назад

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 Год назад

I will continue to avoid that flipping feature 🤔

@clintk4691 Год назад

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 Год назад

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

@prestonvilla3837 Год назад

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.

@robertwood9628 Год назад

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!!!

@MikeJones-cf4wu Год назад

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 💯

@tbzrss Год назад

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 Год назад

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!

@brianronayne7769 Год назад

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

@clubtc05 Год назад

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

@Donslife Год назад

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

@oscarsandoval4328 Год назад

Thank Don , very informative video! Just what I needed to know!Sick truck man! I own a 2022 limited Sierra SLT.

@chinothedreamgiver1629 Год назад

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 Год назад

Thank you 🙏🏻 I appreciate it

@ocmdog Год назад

Very educational! Thank you for sharing this

@legioxequestris4202 2 месяца назад

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 2 месяца назад

Thank you for watching!

@davidhauk4163 9 месяцев назад

I have a Tahoe Z71 and that Auto 4WD really works amazingly well in those conditions. Very smooth. Thank you.

@ClaudiaRodriguez-tx1qm 5 месяцев назад

When you don't need where you should have to put on 2⬆️ or Auto ????

@davidhauk4163 5 месяцев назад

If I don't need it I use 2WD. If I know I need it I use 4WD and If conditions are rather patchy I use 4Auto. Hope that helps.@@ClaudiaRodriguez-tx1qm

@hexhead5732 Год назад

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

@Donslife Год назад

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

@seangallagher3100 Год назад

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.

@oldguysrock2170 Год назад

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 Год назад

Hello from Harbor Springs Mi!

@Freedomwarriors0 3 месяца назад

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

@oldguysrock2170 3 месяца назад

@@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.

@HawkOnHOG Год назад

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 Год назад

Thanks for checking this video out and leaving your thoughts

@normanrhone142 Год назад

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 Год назад

My pleasure!

@normanrhone142 Год назад

@@Donslife most respect sir.

@orangeblock3792 7 месяцев назад

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

@Donslife 7 месяцев назад

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

@wildbill23c Год назад

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.

@dreamthyf Год назад

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 Год назад

Glad I could help

@prouddk9824 Год назад

What a video, and just in time for me! Thanks for explaining the different driving modes. I live in Canada too, though in Ontario we have not had any snow as of yet…the last few days have felt like mid summer, but we know what’s around the corner. I have just purchased a Sierra Elevation and wondered about this topic, and how to use manual gearshift when towing a travel trailer up hills and down. Would you please explain the way to shift up or down gears properly? By the way…awesome content in your posts!

@jacklaporte472 Год назад

Good tips and info. Thanks Don!

@tro9490 Год назад

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 Год назад

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 Год назад

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

@squeakybetz1927 4 месяца назад

Dude, I love this video. Thanks for the info .

@user-uc9px1iu2m 5 месяцев назад

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 Месяц назад

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

@chadbinette3201 14 дней назад

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.

@johnhawkins3986 Год назад

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

@plorks445 3 месяца назад

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.

@270raptor Год назад

Awesome video ! Love my at4

@goforgoldsproductsltd2095 Год назад

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 Год назад

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

@goforgoldsproductsltd2095 Год назад

@@Donslife absolutely 💯 haha

@darrellpatton3549 Год назад

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 Год назад

Thank you so much! Glad you found the video helpful

@curtiscorzine5718 8 месяцев назад

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

@scoobydoo3217 Год назад

New truck owner here, thanks for the tips brother

@sagobhago Год назад

Just the kind of info I was looking for. Thank you

@Donslife Год назад

You’re welcome - Just some basic suggestions for those that may want them

@skycrew867 Год назад

Great video....thx for putting out there!

@ChrisDIYerOklahoma Год назад

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!

@fuckyoutubehandless Год назад

Just a tip. The shutter or skipping the front tires do in 4 High is an indication you’re using it when you shouldn’t be, especially while turning. In 4 High or Low, the wheels are locked and all designed to move at the same speed. The shutter is because one side is moving faster than the other and is inherently bad for your transfer case. If you’re not off-roading, or in really bad conditions, 4 wheel should only be used to move forward. Turning in 4 wheel without the tires being able to slip is bad. A slight dusting does not call for 4 wheel in turns. Auto, sure, but not full blown 4 wheel. Also, 4 Auto is not the same as AWD and shouldn’t be used as such. AWD is designed to allow the wheels to move at different rates by supplying the power to all 4 wheels individually, as needed. 4 auto is basically just engaging the transfer case and putting you in 4 high when the vehicle believes it’s needed. The same things stated above apply for 4 auto when talking about tire rotation.

@OMG420 Год назад

Thank you, I'm a new 4x4 driver and was in heavy up hill snow coming from Salt Lake into Wyoming pulling a uhaul trailer. Was at almost of a pass and felt the rear end start to come out..😰😰😳😵‍💫 I turned that nob 4h so fast lol.. I need new undies...I left it on until I stop to get gas and was turning and felt the shutter I thought I was because I had it in tow mode and was engine brake at first, but I was at like 5mph knew it couldn't be that.... now I know! Thank you.

@chinho1348 Год назад

@N D, when it's Raining, how long should you Drive in 4 Auto? I'm asking because I spun out in 2 wheel Drive in the Rain and almost had a Bad day.

@LouisianaSpey Год назад

We are about to get a freeze in louisiana and it does this maybe once a year. I worry about crossing a bridge that will have ice on it when thins freeze, I have tundra and I am trying to prepare mentally before it freezes. Could I use 4hi with a light freeze on the bridge, it's not going to get crazy this or heavy snow. I just want to be prepared and not freak out.

@Donslife Год назад

Drive slow and try not to be gentle when accelerating.

@mstang61 Год назад

Would you switch from 2wd to 4wd to get going in snow and switch back to 2wd after your moving?

@CSltz Год назад

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.

@chriserickson4417 Год назад

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!

@philncider8077 Год назад

You should keeping making this kind of video! Very helpful

@Donslife Год назад

Would be happy to. Anything specific you’d like to see? I might put together for my block heater and show how it works and why it is a good idea if you experience temperatures below -18°C or 0°F.

@philncider8077 Год назад

@@Donslife absolutely! Also maybe show us how to use four wheel in the desert, trail,sand and mud!

@jimcogil608 6 месяцев назад

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!

@axelcastellanos6841 Год назад

Extremely helpful video. Thank you!

@Donslife Год назад

Absolutely. Thinking about making a winter driving tips video too

@stephenfox8337 5 месяцев назад

The exact video I needed today! Thanks!

@Donslife 5 месяцев назад

You are so welcome!

@jandkmace4952 Год назад

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

@clarencewhite2314 Год назад

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 Год назад

Thank you. Each have their benefits

@cheeng1 5 месяцев назад

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.

@gunnersecuador7515 Год назад

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 Год назад

Certainly!

@CodyLynn100 Год назад

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 Год назад

@@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 Год назад

@@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 Год назад

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

@DwayneDelacruz Год назад

I always wondered what that "auto" was for 😅 thanks for the informative video brotha! 🤘🏼

@helloguy8934 Год назад

Leaving your truck in 4wd all the time is bad for it

@TheNewenglandboys Год назад

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 9 месяцев назад

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.

@scotw67 Год назад

Great video! I have a 2021 Colorado ZR2 and this is great info.

@Donslife Год назад

Thanks. It could be more in-depth, but that could have made the video twice as long

@scotw67 Год назад

@@Donslife I agree. I watched some of your other videos too; all applicable to my truck as well. Great job!

@pizzasaurolophus Год назад

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.

@lawrencemalcheff9804 Год назад

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 Год назад

Thank you for watching the video

@lawrencemalcheff9804 Год назад

@@Donslife Thanks again for the content!

@Yoyo-de5oy 4 месяца назад

Thanks for the help!

@jorgeguerra8045 Год назад

Great video and demonstration and great commentary and vocabulary 👍 more videos

@Donslife Год назад

Thank you for the feedback!

@tytomlinson7831 Год назад

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

@denther16 2 месяца назад

explained very well and thoroughly thank you 👍

@Donslife 2 месяца назад

You're welcome!

@kenbearsley8322 Год назад

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 Год назад

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 Год назад

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

@reallythough4591 Год назад

@@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.

@russcayse3054 Год назад

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 Год назад

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.

@codyhussey1461 Год назад

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

@Donslife Год назад

When there is snow…How could I not?

@Sycophantix Год назад

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 Год назад

Glad I could help!

@krnwhitlow Год назад

Nice truck thanks for the advice

@ndemarco26 Год назад

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 Год назад

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 Год назад

@@Donslife 🤙🏼right on man good stuff

@rli720 Год назад

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

@Donslife Год назад

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

@bamaknifeguy Год назад

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.

@gigievans395 Год назад

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 Год назад

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

@edwardhousemaniii2732 Год назад

Look on ebay for a owners manual 😀

@janzibrik3551 Год назад

Finally good explanation. Thank you

@Donslife Год назад

Glad it was helpful!

@swjang3584 Год назад

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 Год назад

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

@danieldryden542 Год назад

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.

@lazy_503_9 6 месяцев назад

very true on the lift kit explanation. From experience

@Donslife 6 месяцев назад

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

@christopherrhen401 11 месяцев назад

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

@Jerryswar 5 месяцев назад

Best post so far … thank you sir…

@Donslife 5 месяцев назад

Most welcome

@GF-zh7sv Год назад

you're never too old for doughnuts my friend, also nice touch with the Timmies!

@mikimiki195 6 месяцев назад

Thanks for making great video 👍🏻

@Donslife 6 месяцев назад

My pleasure!! Thanks for watching it!

@Jessehermansonphotography Год назад

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!

@251Trioxin Год назад

This is very informative… thank you sir 🙏

@Donslife Год назад

Glad it was helpful!

@mahidikarif2123 3 месяца назад

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 3 месяца назад

You’re welcome. Glad it helped

@colleenkirkpatrick670 3 месяца назад

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 3 месяца назад

@@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 3 месяца назад

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

@colleenkirkpatrick670 3 месяца назад

@@Donslife unfortunately they're a studies winter tire

@jindo6700 Год назад

Good video gives u the basics

@Donslife Год назад

Thank you. That was the intent

@user-xo2lk2tw9y 5 месяцев назад

Thank you for this explanation

@Donslife 5 месяцев назад

Glad it was helpful!

@golferpro1241 Год назад

Nice video. Looks pretty with the snow. I like the truck

@Donslife Год назад

Glad you like it

@johnharrison712 Год назад

Wonderful video, I own a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE, I only have Auto, 2WD, 4WD High.

@slalomking Год назад

GM decided to give up the low range to save money. You have to order it to get it know. I hate GM.

@marshalkwt Год назад

My trail boss 2021 have 4low

@slalomking Год назад

@@marshalkwt yes because it’s a trail boss

@mikerayle6103 Год назад

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 Год назад

I agree man

@OMEGATHENIETZCHIAN Год назад

This is very helpful for me. I recently got a 2018 Silverado and I've already felt some fishtailing in light rain so knowing when to put on the 4 wheel gives me a little more confidence as the snow starts to fall.

@Donslife Год назад

Great! This video was meant to share some basics with these systems and how I tend to use them. Right after this video we received way more snow and I was in 4Hi for 2 days. Then when things settled down and the only some slippery patches remained, I put the transmission back into Auto4WD. On a trip to a nearby community with clear roads, I put the transmission in 2WD. Each of my choices had a reason, and some people may not agree with my thought process, and that's okay. I am glad you found some value in this. Have a great day!

@herpdederp1 Год назад

You also might want to look into better tires if your slipping during light rain just a suggestion lol.

@dontpokethebear4190 Год назад

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.

@klingoncowboy4 Год назад

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 Год назад

Thanks for checking out the channel, I appreciate it

@jaysway007 Год назад

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

@Donslife Год назад

😂 I would miss the snow for that

@user-xn6cx6lm4o 5 месяцев назад

very good instruction and helpful insights

@Donslife 5 месяцев назад

Glad you enjoyed it!

@Boobtube. 4 месяца назад

i like the fact that Don still has that little kid inside that likes to do donuts in the snow.

@Donslife 4 месяца назад

Me too!

@donvoll2580 Год назад

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.

@rickmcmhan2296 6 месяцев назад

Great review

@Donslife 6 месяцев назад

Thank you for watching!

@gravyboatcaptain2292 Год назад

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.

@mikeryan5088 Год назад

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

@johnhatfield6685 Год назад

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 Год назад

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.

@johnwinter9722 Год назад

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.

@Na0uta Год назад

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.

@andydorman2119 Год назад

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.