Best Bronco G.O.A.T. Modes for Winter Weather and Off-Road Driving

About this time of year, even diehard winter fans start looking forward to putting away the snow shovel. Unfortunately for us in cooler climates, the groundhog did see his shadow, and plenty of us are still seeing lots of this and will be for another month at least.

Dashed hopes for Spring aside, the good news is there’s still time to enjoy your Bronco on snow-covered trails! And if off-roading isn’t your thing, then at least you can have more fun on your daily drive and less white-knuckle moments, thanks to the Bronco’s capabilities and technology.

Read: How (and When) to Engage the G.O.A.T. Modes in My Bronco Sport

So, to close out this cold season, help new Bronco owners understand the driving tools they’ve got, and get you making plans for future winter wheeling, let’s go over the Bronco’s G.O.A.T. Modes for snow and ice driving, on road and off.

G.O.A.T. Modes, Transfer Case Selections, and Traction Aides in the Bronco

First, what is a G.O.A.T. Mode? G.O.A.T. stands for “Goes Over Any-type of Terrain.” The name itself is a bit of an Easter Egg; G.O.A.T. was the original internal code name for the 1966 Bronco project. Back then, it stood for “Goes Over All Terrain,” but a shift was made, because reportedly, you’re not supposed to drive your Bronco over land features like fresh lava. At any rate, these days, it’s “any-type of” terrain.

G.O.A.T. Modes are nicely packaged vehicle settings that adjust various aspects of your Bronco with a turn of a dial. Choose a terrain or road condition that matches what’s outside your vehicle, and in return, you’ll get enhanced control and driving dynamics. The system can alter steering, powertrain response, transmission shift points, and traction control, among other effects.

What G.O.A.T. Modes Are Available?

Depending on your trim (and what you or a former owner added through the FORScan software tool), you will see some of the following options for G.O.A.T. Modes. No Bronco has all of them.

The owner’s manual details the G.O.A.T. Modes available and what they do:

• Eco – For efficient driving. This mode helps deliver maximum fuel efficiency and helps to increase driving range.
• Sport – For sporty driving with improved performance handling and response. This mode increases accelerator pedal response and provides a sportier steering feel. The powertrain system holds onto lower gears longer, helping the vehicle accelerate faster.
• Normal – For everyday driving. This mode is a balance of excitement, comfort and convenience. This is the default mode after each ignition cycle.
• Mud/Ruts (available) – For off-road driving. This mode enhances vehicle performance to traverse muddy, rutted or uneven terrains. Mud/ruts mode engages the four-wheel drive lock.
• Slippery – For less than ideal road conditions, such as snow or ice-covered roads. This mode can be used for crossing terrain where a firm surface is covered with loose, wet or slippery material. Slippery mode lowers throttle response and optimizes shifting for slippery surfaces.
• Sand/Snow – Sand mode is for off-road driving on soft, dry sand or deep snow. Sand mode engages the four-wheel drive lock.
• Rock Crawl (available) – For optimum rock-climbing ability. Rock crawl mode engages the four-wheel drive lock and the rear differential lock feature. It also activates the front trail camera at slow speeds.
• Baja (available) – It optimizes suspension and other systems for improved performance on loose terrain and sand.
• Tow/Haul (available) – It improves transmission operation when towing a trailer or a heavy load. This mode moves upshifts to higher engine speeds to reduce the frequency of transmission shifting. Tow/Haul mode also provides engine braking in all forward gears.

How to Select a G.O.A.T. Mode

Rotate the G.O.A.T. Modes dial once, and it will wake up the drive mode selection menu on the instrument panel display. Keep rotating it to select the drive mode. Once you let it linger on a mode, that one will engage.

You can change to most modes while in Drive (and in motion), but don’t have cruise control or trail control active while doing so, since those features may prevent the mode change from occurring as expected. 

You have approximately three seconds of lingering on a mode before one will engage, so don’t worry about rotating through them while on pavement. Prompts will keep you from staying in one that you shouldn’t use on-road.

Transfer Case Options

You may have noticed in the G.O.A.T. Mode descriptions above that some modes automatically engage four-wheel drive. However, you can also use four-wheel drive without changing your G.O.A.T. Mode from Normal. 

Since the Bronco is a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you get to control whether it’s in 2-wheel drive high (2H), four-wheel drive high (4H), and four-wheel drive low (4L). Some Broncos, those equipped with the “Advanced 4x4” EMTC (Electromechanical Transfer Case), will have four-wheel drive auto (4A). Your owner's manual breaks down what these options are designed for:

• 2H: Two-wheel drive high is for general on-road driving. Power is sent to the rear wheels only.
• 4H: Four-wheel drive high provides electronically or mechanically locked four-wheel drive power to both the front and rear wheels for use in off-road or winter conditions such as deep snow, sand or mud. This mode is not for use on dry pavement.
• 4L: Four-wheel drive low provides electronically or mechanically locked four-wheel drive power to both the front and rear wheels for use on low traction surfaces, but does so with additional gearing for increased torque multiplication. This mode is only for off-road conditions such as deep sand, steep slopes, or pulling heavy objects.
• 4A (if equipped): Four-wheel drive auto provides electronically controlled four-wheel drive power to both the front and rear wheels, as required, for increased traction in varying on-road conditions. The four-wheel drive auto tuning varies based on selected Drive Mode.

Choosing to engage 4H, 4L, or 4A without moving the G.O.A.T. Mode dial is how some owners prefer to navigate bad road conditions or off-road trails. That’s how I drive on road, with Normal on from start up, but I find a quick dial swivel is great for off-roading, since I can get a transfer case shift and cameras on in one action, then customize from there.

Just know, however, by doing that, I’m missing out on some of the benefits of a G.O.A.T. Mode. I’ll admit, I used to think of them as gimmicky until I tried them out at a testing facility in the winter and could feel all the changes they supply.

Read: An engineer’s take on winter driving from that trip.

What You Came Here For

The following options are G.O.A.T. Modes you might consider using if you are on the pavement/dirt/gravel roads. You can find these descriptions and more off-roading features, tips, and warnings in your owner’s manual.

Before using a mode, take time to refresh yourself on what Ford directs until you feel familiar with it.

On Road: Best G.O.A.T. Modes for Ice and Snow

Normal

For everyday driving. This mode is the perfect balance of excitement, comfort and convenience. The vehicle returns to Normal mode if you do not choose to return to the previous drive mode at each key cycle. Driveline settings remain as they were previously regardless of selection.

Two-wheel drive high (2H) is the default four-wheel drive mode. All four-wheel drive modes are selectable when in Normal mode.

The front electronic locking differential is available below 25 mph (40 km/h) when in four-wheel drive low (4L). The rear electronic locking differential is available below 25 mph (40 km/h).

Notes: 

• The rear electronic locking differential is available at any speed when in four-wheel drive low (4L).
• The stabilizer bar disconnect is available in four-wheel drive high (4H) or four-wheel drive low (4L).

How I drive: Because of all my past vehicles –– transfer case but no modes –– Normal is my preferred option for poor road conditions, with 4H when necessary. My Bronco has the Advanced 4x4 transfer case, and so for the last couple storms, I’ve finally been trying out 4A. After some use, I’m more of a fan. I like it because I don’t have to wait until a fishtail to decide the road surface has deteriorated enough to shift my transfer case, my old way of operating.

The next two, Slippery, are the same mode broken down by the transfer case you have. If you have a button that says 4A, you have the Advanced 4x4, and if you don’t, you have the traditional electronic shift-on-the-fly (ESOF) transfer case marketed as "4x4 with part time engagement."

In addition to snowy weather, people also like Slippery for rain, especially at the beginning of a light rain when accumulated oil makes the road surface slick or during heavy bursts.

Slippery - 4x4 with Part Time Engagement

Use this mode for driving on a firm surface that is covered with loose or slippery material, such as snow or ice. Slippery mode lowers throttle response and optimizes shifting for slippery surfaces.

Four-wheel drive high (4H) is the default four-wheel drive mode. All four-wheel drive modes are selectable in Slippery mode.

The rear electronic locking differential is available below 25 mph (40 km/h). 

Notes: 

• The rear electronic locking differential is available at any speed when in four-wheel drive low (4L).
• The stabilizer bar disconnect is not available in Slippery mode. 
• Do not use this mode on dry pavement. Depending on the four-wheel drive mode selected when using Slippery mode on dry hard pavement, your vehicle could experience vibration, driveline bind up, damage and potential excessive tire and vehicle wear.

Slippery - Advanced 4x4 with 4A Mode

Use this mode for driving on a firm surface that is covered with loose or slippery material, such as snow or ice. Slippery mode lowers throttle response and optimizes shifting for slippery surfaces.

Four-wheel drive auto (4A) is the default four-wheel drive mode. Two-wheel drive high (2H) is not selectable in Slippery mode.

The front electronic locking differential is available below 25 mph (40 km/h) when in four-wheel drive low (4L). The rear electronic locking differential is available below 25 mph (40 km/h).

Notes: 

• The rear electronic locking differential is available at any speed when in four-wheel drive low (4L).
• The stabilizer bar disconnect is not available in Slippery mode.
• Do not use this mode on dry pavement. Depending on the four-wheel drive mode selected when using Slippery mode on dry/hard pavement, your vehicle could experience vibration, driveline bind up, damage and potential excessive tire and vehicle wear.

How to use it on road: With Slippery, keep it in 4H or 4A for your commute. Four Low is for off-road use.* Additionally, do not use your lockers on your daily drives … unless you ended up in a ditch. But with good driving and slow speeds, you have less of a chance of being there in the first place.

Remember, if you’re having to alter your vehicle setup because of conditions, you also need to alter your speed. Even though four-wheel drive can get you moving easier in bad conditions, it can’t help you stop faster.

*For the majority of people in nearly all conditions. If the road can’t be recognized as a road and extra torque is needed for pulling/hills, some winter-experienced drivers may choose to use it to go low and slow. Have a full understanding of what you’re doing and its risks before you deviate from the owner’s manual.

Off Road: Best G.O.A.T. Mode for Ice and Snow

Here’s where you get to have more fun, use more (or less) of your vehicle’s tech, and enjoy the elements with less stress! Like on-road driving, you can still keep it in Normal, or shift into Slippery. However, since Slippery lowers throttle response and nannies the Bronco more than you may like off-road, try out one of these modes. As with sand driving, one of the keys to driving in snow off-road is maintaining momentum.

Sand

For off-road driving on soft, dry sand or deep snow. This mode may help get your vehicle unstuck from deep snow or sand.

Four-wheel drive high (4H) is the default four-wheel drive mode. Four-wheel drive low (4L) is selectable in Sand mode.

The front electronic locking differential is available below 25 mph (40 km/h) when in four-wheel drive low (4L). The rear electronic locking differential is engaged when in Sand mode and is available at any speed in all selectable four-wheel drive modes.

The stabilizer bar disconnect is available in four-wheel drive high (4H) or four-wheel drive low (4L).

Notes: 

• The front camera system switches on when you are in Sand mode and your speed is less than 15 mph (24 km/h). If you exceed 15 mph (24 km/h), the camera shuts off until your vehicle speed is below 12 mph (20 km/h).
• This mode is for off-road use only. When using Sand mode on dry/hard pavement, your vehicle could experience vibration, driveline bind up, damage and potential excessive tire and vehicle wear.
• Sand mode is not intended for use on firm, slippery surfaces, such as paved roads covered with snow or ice. For slippery, firm surfaces use Slippery mode.

Mud/Ruts

For off-road driving. This mode enhances vehicle performance to traverse muddy, rutted or uneven terrains.

Four-wheel drive high (4H) is the default four-wheel drive mode. Four-wheel drive low (4L) is selectable in Mud/Ruts mode.

The front electronic locking differential is available below 25 mph (40 km/h) when in four-wheel drive low (4L). The rear electronic locking differential is engaged when in Mud/Ruts mode and is available at any speed in all selectable four-wheel drive modes.

The stabilizer bar disconnect is available in four-wheel drive high (4H) or four-wheel drive low (4L).

Notes: 

• This is for off-road use only. Depending on the four-wheel drive mode you select when using Mud/Ruts mode on dry, hard pavement, your vehicle could experience vibration, driveline bind up, damage and potential excessive tire and vehicle wear.
• Automatic disconnect is not available with some vehicle options.

How I drive off-road in snow: If I’m not in Normal for off-road snow driving, I am usually in Mud/Ruts with the lockers off until needed.

Before your drive, read the snow and trails to determine what is best for you. I like 4H for powder and 4L for breaking a trail in deep heavy snow, for instance.

Tips for Driving in Snow

Finally, let’s go over some basic tips for driving on-road and off in the winter.

ON ROAD

1. Get winter tires: Winter tires are one of the best ways to have safe trips. The rubber is softer, the tread patterns help you clear snow and slush, and you’ll be able to brake and handle your Bronco better.

2. Test the road conditions: As you leave your driveway or street, pay attention to the feel of the road. Check your brakes by applying them before you actually need them. Are you already slipping, skidding, or bogging down in the snow? Adjust your Bronco to help you travel safely: Consider a G.O.A.T. Mode, shift your transfer case, slow down if icy or slippery, and maintain momentum in the deep stuff.

3. Keep steady, slow speeds: Don’t gun it from stops, to avoid tire spin and sideways slips. Power through deeper snow with good throttle control and lower RPMs. And once again, slow down. You’ll better avoid a spinout –– or worse, if you don’t hurry. If you do feel the back end of your Bronco break away on ice or slick snow, counter steer (turn the steering wheel in the direction your back end is going). It’s a small movement; don’t overcorrect as you find traction. If you’re newer to snow, find a parking lot to practice this.

4. Get off the brakes or get on them early: If you’re in a slide or attempting to descend a snowy/icy hill, don’t keep your foot on the brake pedal. You want to be able to steer as you slide. With your foot jammed to the floor on a descent, you may just end up forcing your vehicle sideways. And even with an anti-lock brake system (ABS), which allows you steer as you stop, don’t slam on the brakes if you can avoid it. Gradual inputs of the throttle and brakes will help you maintain the best control. Remember, ABS may actually increase stopping distances on some surfaces, so leave more room that you may think you need.

OFF ROAD

Follow on-road best practices, plus:

1. Turn off traction control: Do so by hitting the second switch from the right on the hero button row (there's no indicator light on this button; instead you will see it is off on the instrument panel). Traction control can break your momentum, causing you to become stuck.

2. Use lower gears when necessary: This tip can be used on-road for hills, as well. For owners with automatic transmissions, shifting into M1 or M2 can help you control descents better than with the brake pedal.

To do so, shift into M and use the plus and minus buttons on the shifter. You'll see M1 or M2 on the instrument panel, depending on what you toggle to.

3. Decide on tire pressure: This is another “read the snow” situation and can come down to tires and preference. On some snow, airing down will let you float on top. Other types will be easier to drive in if you can “cut through.” Get to know your vehicle, weight, and tires. By carrying a compressor, you can always test out the trail and adjust pressure if necessary. So much of off-roading skill is grown by seat time in your own setup, though an understanding of the whys and hows can help you get started. 

Stuck?

Finally, if you get stuck on road or off, first, do what you need to make sure you, any occupants, and other drivers are safe. Travel with emergency blankets, lights, food and water, reliable communication, and recovery gear. Call for help before it is dire and be sure to turn off the engine if your exhaust pipe is covered.

Read: Winter Driving Prep: Essentials to Pack in Your Bronco

If you’re in a situation where you can attempt to self-recover or get an assist, follow best practices. Assess why you’ve lost momentum or can't gain traction. Once determined, make a plan and communicate it to those with you. If you’re shoveling, dig more than you think you should to break free on the first try and not make the second harder. Airing down may help by increasing the footprint of your tires; traction boards are an excellent tool, and don’t forget your Bronco’s toolkit of transfer case settings, G.O.A.T. Modes, and lockers.

Winter driving can be intimidating, but with knowledge and practice, it can also be less stressful on the road and tons of fun on the trails. Ready to try it out? If you’re in a still-winter region, find a local Bronco club if you’re not in one already and plan some adventures!

Tell us below: What your favorite tips for winter driving? What gear do you carry at all times or for winter trips? Have you helped pull out stuck drivers with your Bronco?