OFF-ROAD DRIVING TIPS
When To Use 4WD Low — If Equipped
When off-road driving, shift to 4WD Low for additional
traction. This range should be limited to extreme situa-
tions such as deep snow, mud, or sand where addi-
tional low speed pulling power is needed. Vehicle
speeds in excess of 25 mph (40 km/h) should be
avoided when in 4WD Low.
WARNING!
Do not drive in 4WD Low on dry pavement; driveline
damage may result. 4WD Low locks front and rear
drivelines together and does not allow for differential
action between the front to rear driveshafts. Driving
in 4WD Low on pavement will cause driveline binding;
use only on wet or slippery surfaces.
Driving Through Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through
water, there are a number of precautions that must be
considered before entering the water.
CAUTION!
When driving through water, do not exceed 5 mph
(8 km/h). Always check water depth before entering
as a precaution, and check all fluids afterward. Driv-
ing through water may cause damage not covered by
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to ensure
safety and prevent damage to your vehicle. If you must
drive through water, try to determine the depth and the
bottom condition (and location of any obstacles) prior to
entering. Proceed with caution and maintain a steady
controlled speed less than 5 mph (8 km/h) in deep
water to minimize wave effects.
Flowing Water
If the water is swift flowing and rising (as in storm run-
off), avoid crossing until the water level recedes and/or
the flow rate is reduced. If you must cross flowing water
avoid depths in excess of 9 inches (23 cm). The flowing
water can erode the streambed, causing your vehicle to
sink into deeper water. Determine exit point(s) that are
downstream of your entry point to allow for drifting.
Standing Water
Avoid driving in standing water deeper than 20 inches
(51 cm), and reduce speed appropriately to minimize
wave effects. Maximum speed in 20 inches (51 cm) of
water is less than 5 mph (8 km/h).
Maintenance
After driving through deep water, inspect your vehicle
fluids and lubricants (engine oil, transmission oil, axle,
transfer case) to ensure the fluids have not been con-
taminated. Contaminated fluid (milky, foamy in appear-
ance) should be flushed/changed as soon as possible
to prevent component damage.
Driving In Snow, Mud And Sand
In heavy snow, when pulling a load, or for additional
control at slower speeds, shift the transmission to a low
gear and shift the transfer case to AWD Low if neces-
sary
page 91. Only shift into a lower gear to main-
tain forward motion. Over-revving the engine can spin
the wheels and traction will be lost.
Avoid abrupt downshifts on icy or slippery roads,
because engine braking may cause skidding and loss of
control.
Hill Climbing
NOTE:
Before attempting to climb a hill, determine the condi-
tions at the crest and/or on the other side.
Before climbing a steep hill, shift the transmission to a
lower gear and shift the transfer case to AWD Low. Use
FIRST gear and AWD Low for very steep hills.
If you stall or begin to lose forward motion while climb-
ing a steep hill, allow your vehicle to come to a stop and
immediately apply the brakes. Restart the engine, and
shift into REVERSE. Back slowly down the hill, allowing
the compression braking of the engine to help regulate
the speed. If the brakes are required to control vehicle
speed, apply them lightly and avoid locking or skidding
the tires.
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