4X2 vs 4X4

[FCBarca]

I am driving for a couple of weeks an 08 4Runner. I have noticed that the driver can opt between H4 and H2. At the moment the mode is set to H4. Would that damage any parts at all if selected for a longer period of time on dry/wet-at-times pavement (I am in Portland, OR)?

 

[martini]

Absolutely fine since there is a center differential (as long as you don't have the center differential lock on, which would also show VSC OFF on the dash if it was). You can drive in 4H forever in any condition with a center differential (unlocked).

 

[vvs75]

Keep it in H4. The V8 4runners have no H2 they all time H4, so your V6 in H4 position have same full time AWD drive system as V8 4Runners.

 

[Lexusbstrdchild]

its fine to do, but not necessary. it will also lower your mpg a bit leaving it in H4.

 

[DaveS]

Whichever you choose to use, just make sure you switch between the two every now and again to keep the actuator that makes the switch free. If you use H2 mostly you should do 10 minutes driving H4 once a month to keep the 4WD components lubricated.

 

[Nuke]

Is this a loaner? There's no need to be in 4WD unless conditions warrant it but as stated above, it won't hurt anything on this model other than reduce fuel mileage a minor amount and increase some component wear.

I rarely put the car in 4WD unless conditions are so bad that I can feel like I don't have good control. That usually means not until there is 3 or more inches of snow and depends on the terrain and snow consistency. Some folks prefer to keep it in 4WD but these are the people that have lost the ability to drive in anything other than dry conditions.

 

[DocMT]

Some folks prefer to keep it in 4WD but these are the people that have lost the ability to drive in anything other than dry conditions.

LOL

I put my 4Runner in 4HI and leave it there all winter. Why? Simple--because I can. It has nothing to do with my driving abilities.

My other vehicle is rear wheel drive and I drive it in the snow/rain or whatever conditions as well.

 

[DexTech]

ANY TIME road conditions are less than ideal I put it in 4wd. Dirt/gravel roads I use 4wd. Raing/snow I use 4wd. I like the extra traction/stability provided. I'd hate to lose control not using when I have and already paid for it.