2H, 4A, 4H, and 4L describe different drive modes in which you can engage your Ford F-150’s four-wheel drive system. We’ll briefly explain what each means so you can get you navigating slippery terrain as soon as possible.
F-150 Drive Modes: Quick Reference
| Drive Mode | Best For |
|---|---|
| 2H (2 Wheel Drive, High Gear) | Everyday Driving, Dry Pavement |
| 4H (4 Wheel Drive, High Gear) | Most Low Traction Situations |
| 4L (4 Wheel Drive, Low Gear) | Low Speed, Low Traction, Only for Off-Road |
| 4A (4 Wheel Drive, Automatic Engagement) | Most Low Traction Situations |
Two (and sometimes three) modes turn on four-wheel drive, and they are each designated for certain situations.
2H and 4A are the only modes you should use if there isn’t low traction. Using 4L and 4H on dry pavement can damage the F-150’s four-wheel drive system.
A 4A, 4H, or 4L light will illuminate in your instrument cluster, letting you know that the system has shifted into a four-wheel drive. The 2H light will flash when you shift back to 2H, but it won’t stay on.
For smoother four-wheel drive shifts, release the accelerator pedal.
2H Mode (2 Wheels, High Gear)
2H is what you should be driving your F150 around in usually. It transfers power to the rear wheels only. The four-wheel drive system can send power to the front and rear wheels if you need increased traction.
2H is best for every day driving where rear traction is not an issue.
4H Mode (4 Wheels, High Gear)
4H mode transfers power to the front and rear axles. The gearing doesn’t change, and you can drive your F-150 as you usually would. The steering wheel will feel heavier, and you’ll feel the torque in it.
4H is best for most off-road conditions and heavy snow
4L Mode (4 Wheels, Low Gear)
4L is for extreme off-road conditions where increased torque can get you out of a jam, such as extreme off-road situations like deep sand or rock crawling.
Four low doesn’t work for street driving, as the truck will redline too fast.
Shifting the F-150 into 4L
To shift your F-150 into 4L, you must:
- Bring the truck’s speed to 3MPH or less (stopped is best)
- Shift into neutral
- Press the 4L button (or turn the nob to 4L, depending on the model year)
- Once the shift in progress message goes away, you’re good to go
4A Mode (4 Wheels, Automatic Engagement)
4A adapts to road conditions and engages 4-wheel drive when needed. If no rear wheel slippage is detected, engine power will only go to the rear wheels.
Electronic Locking Differential
The 4WD selector nob may have a button you can push to activate the electronic locking differential. If it does, you can push or pull it (depending on the model year), and both rear wheels will spin simultaneously, which increases traction.