‘When to Use’ Cheat Sheet: Bronco 4H, 4L, and 4A

Going off-road can come with an arc of thoughts and feelings, starting with pre-meetup nerves to full-on excitement to “Oh, wait; I’m here, now what do I need to be in?”

All About Bronco’s 4x4 Settings

If you’re a newer Bronco owner, trying out a new terrain, or just don’t get to go off-roading enough for the “rules” to stick in your mind yet, Bronco Nation is here to help.

For when you want to study up, we have a full-length guide covering what the vehicle is doing in the different ranges, why that matters, and why seat time can’t be beat: When to Use Bronco’s 4H, 4L, and 4A.

Cheat Sheet for On-the-Go Adjustments

Here, though, when you’re at the trailhead about to head out or see that the weather changed while you were at work, you can find a transfer case cheat sheet for quick reminders.

Match the off-road terrain or use case to a setting that can help you, then push the corresponding button on your G.O.A.T. Mode dial. The vehicle will shift into your selection. Note: If you choose 4L, the vehicle prompts you to shift into Neutral first.

4 Low (4L)

Use it for slow-speed, high-torque situations. If you start topping out on your speed and over-revving the engine, switch to 4H.

• Pulling a boat out of the water
• Recoveries
• Rock crawling
• Steep hill climbs where you need to maintain a steady momentum
• Hill descents
• River crossings
• Mud that requires steady speeds to get through (usually thick, gooey, and sticky)
• Deep or heavy sand
• Deep, wet snow

4 High (4H)

Use it for more control at higher speeds. Remember: 4WD won’t help you stop faster. Drive at a safe speed for the conditions.

• Continuous snow and ice on paved roads
• Dirt and gravel trails with loose surfaces
• Powdery snow off-road
• Soft, shallow sand and hard-packed sand
• Greasy, watery mud that benefits from wheel spin to clear treads

4 Auto (4A)

Not every Bronco has 4A, but if yours has it, you can use it in a wide range of on-road conditions.

• Wet weather conditions
• Snowy roads with patches of cleared or dry areas
• Optimal performance no matter the weather

Now go be safe and have fun out there. If you used 4H or 4L, don’t forget to shift back into 2H on dry pavement or for the drive home!