4WD Question - Toyota 4Runner Forum

sLADe781 · 02-13-2025, 02:27 PM

I have a 2018 Limited with full-time 4WD which means that the 4WD feature should always be on, right? However, I noticed on my dash that the display only shows 2 wheels even while driving. Is it supposed to show all 4 wheels for the 4WD feature or is normal to just show 2 wheels even with the 4WD feature active?

I'm taking the family to the snow this weekend and I'm also wondering when (if ever) I would need to switch over to H4L?

Thank you for any insight available.

turbo8 · 02-13-2025, 02:47 PM

I'm not sure about the dash indicator, but you don't have the option to be in 2wd, so you should be good.

Before you go, check to make sure the center diff is locking.
When you go into H4L does the center diff lock light activate on the dash?

You would want to go into H4L if the roads are completely covered in snow. If the road is intermittent stay in H4F.

Make sure you have proper tires. M+S or 3 peak rated tires should be good enough. If not, have some chains handy.

sLADe781 · 02-13-2025, 04:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by turbo8

I'm not sure about the dash indicator, but you don't have the option to be in 2wd, so you should be good.

Before you go, check to make sure the center diff is locking.
When you go into H4L does the center diff lock light activate on the dash?

You would want to go into H4L if the roads are completely covered in snow. If the road is intermittent stay in H4F.

Make sure you have proper tires. M+S or 3 peak rated tires should be good enough. If not, have some chains handy.

Great information - thank you so much!

Bmnorm2 · 02-13-2025, 10:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sLADe781

I have a 2018 Limited with full-time 4WD which means that the 4WD feature should always be on, right? However, I noticed on my dash that the display only shows 2 wheels even while driving. Is it supposed to show all 4 wheels for the 4WD feature or is normal to just show 2 wheels even with the 4WD feature active?

I'm taking the family to the snow this weekend and I'm also wondering when (if ever) I would need to switch over to H4L?

Thank you for any insight available.

The purpose of that display is to show you what steering angle your front wheels are at. It can be useful when off-roading.

Humble Leader · 02-14-2025, 10:13 AM

unless you're going through some very deep snow or offroading H4F will be fine. I never felt the need to go into H4L when not offroad even in really bad weather. H4F has been fine, but I also use dedicated winter tires