how fast can you drive in 4 high

2 min read 16-04-2025

Driving in 4-high is a common question for owners of four-wheel-drive vehicles. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of your vehicle's 4-high setting is crucial for safe and efficient off-road driving. This article will explore how fast you can drive in 4-high, the situations where it's appropriate, and potential risks of exceeding recommended speeds.

What is 4 High?

4-High, or 4 High Range, is a four-wheel-drive setting that engages all four wheels, providing increased traction and stability, especially on slippery surfaces like snow, ice, mud, or loose gravel. Unlike 4-Low, which is for very slow, low-traction situations, 4-High is designed for higher speeds. It's ideal for maintaining control in challenging conditions, while still allowing for relatively normal driving speeds.

How Fast Can You Drive in 4 High?

There's no single speed limit for driving in 4-High. The maximum safe speed depends on several factors:

Your vehicle: Consult your owner's manual. It will specify the maximum recommended speed for 4-High operation. This speed is usually significantly lower than your vehicle's top speed in 2-wheel drive.
Road conditions: Driving on a paved road in 4-High at high speeds can damage your vehicle's drivetrain. The ideal situation for 4-High is on unpaved roads or in slippery conditions. Even then, high speeds are dangerous.
Terrain: Rough terrain, steep inclines, or deep mud will necessitate slower speeds, regardless of the 4-High setting. Driving too fast can lead to loss of control, damage to your vehicle, and potentially serious injury.

Generally, it is recommended to stay below 55 mph (90 km/h) in 4-High. Exceeding this speed, even on a relatively smooth surface, is unwise. Again, check your owner's manual for the specific recommendation for your vehicle.

What Happens if You Drive Too Fast in 4 High?

Driving significantly faster than the recommended speed in 4-High can lead to several problems:

Drivetrain damage: Excessive speeds can put undue stress on your vehicle's axles, transfer case, and other components. This can result in expensive repairs.
Loss of control: On loose surfaces, driving too fast can easily lead to loss of traction and control. This is especially true on uneven or unpredictable terrain.
Increased wear and tear: Driving in 4-High unnecessarily increases wear and tear on your vehicle’s drivetrain.

When to Use 4 High

4-High is best suited for situations where increased traction is needed but you don’t require the extreme low gearing of 4-Low. These include:

Slippery roads: Snow, ice, rain, or loose gravel.
Off-road driving on moderate terrain: Well-maintained dirt roads, gravel tracks, and trails with moderate inclines and declines.

When NOT to Use 4 High

Avoid using 4-High in these situations:

Paved roads: Driving on paved roads in 4-High is generally unnecessary and can damage your drivetrain.
High speeds: As discussed above, high speeds should always be avoided in 4-High.
Dry, good traction conditions: There is no benefit to using 4-High on dry, well-maintained roads.

Conclusion: Prioritize Safety

Remember, safety should always be your top priority. Always consult your owner's manual for specific speed recommendations for your vehicle and terrain. Driving in 4-High at excessive speeds can damage your vehicle and compromise your safety. Drive responsibly and enjoy the benefits of your 4-wheel-drive system.