You would have to change the transaxle. Changing the transaxle requires a different transmission control module interface which would in turn require either a different powertrain control module (most likely) or re-programming. The altered weight of the vehicle would require retrofit of the 4-wheel suspension that was built for the 4 wheel drive version and of course the front suspension, hubs, bearings, etc. would all have to be changed because those wheels would be driven. All the controls in the cab would have to be added. The ABS and traction control systems would probably have to be changed out. Roughly, all of this would cost at least $15,000 because all of those parts are dealer only and all will have to be bought new. As an economic proposition, it would be less costly, and you would reduce the substantial risk of technical issues arising, if you traded in the car and bought the version that was already factory equipped with 4 wheel drive. That will be the least cost option, and by a significant margin, principally due to the high cost of the individual parts (the mark up on the parts). If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.
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Two-wheel Drive (2WD)
Front-wheel Drive (FWD): On vehicles with front-wheel drive, the engine only sends power to the front wheels. Rear-wheel Drive (RWD): On vehicles with rear-wheel drive, the engine only sends power to the rear wheels.
You can change your drive settings while on the road if you are driving below 50 miles per hour. However, to select the 4WD low setting, you will need to stop completely.
Shift your transmission into neutral. Turn the transfer control case (the shifter that controls 2WD and 4WD) into its desired position. Put the vehicle back in gear.
Keep in mind: Never switch from high-range 4WD to low-range 4WD while your car is moving. While switching from 2WD to 4WD while moving isn`t likely to hurt your car, switching between the two 4WD modes while moving can significantly damage your gearbox and differential.
The short answer to this question is yes: relative to 2WD vehicles, you are going to use more fuel in a 4WD.
To put them into 4 Wheel Drive High you need to be drive around 7 – 30mph and pull down the lever from 2H to 4H. If you need to put them into 4 Wheel Drive Low you need to be Parked and then shift into Neutral. Then you will pull the lever down from 2H to 4L.
The biggest difference is that 2WD will send power to two wheels, while 4WD uses all four wheels. 2WD vehicles are excellent at driving on dry, flat roads and they can be more affordable than 4WD and AWD vehicles, which often carry a premium price tag and tend to be slightly less fuel efficient.
With two-wheel drive, the engine sends power to two of the car`s wheels while allowing the other two wheels to spin. Because the engine doesn`t have to use energy to power all four wheels, and because two-wheel drive systems weigh less than four-wheel drive, two-wheel drive vehicles are lighter and more fuel-efficient.
Many people buy a traditional SUV because they perceive the all-wheel drive system as safer. However, these drivers fail to realize that while the AWD has better traction, the 2WD system does much to improve to cornering and braking.
An electronic locking rear differential is standard on TRD PreRunner, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter grades. The new and luxurious Limited grade now features a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a center locking differential on i-FORCE MAX models.
Yes, you can go off-road in a new 2WD vehicle if you want to. There are a few 2WD vehicles on the market that are designed for off-roading, and most new 2WD trucks can handle off-road conditions. The biggest challenges you`ll face are likely the computers designed to help you.
If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, the best option will be AWD or 4WD coupled with good winter tires. City/Suburban driving with moderate snow and ice – FWD or RWD with winter tires will suffice.
Unfortunately, driving in 4WD uses more gas than 2WD, simply because more components are used within a 4WD system. More components mean more fuel to power the drivetrain, which leads to increased gas consumption.
The AWD switch may be turned on or off while the vehicle is moving.
A full-time 4WD system, for example, can handle high speeds because it`s designed to operate in all conditions. However, if you`re using a part-time 4WD system, high-speed driving on dry roads could potentially cause drivetrain damage due to the binding effect in the system.
In general, cars equipped with 2-wheel drive get better gas mileage than models that use all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive. There`s a reason: AWD or 4WD cars have to send power to each of the vehicle`s wheels, which requires extra energy.
4L is best when you`re on icy roads, climbing rocks, crossing water, or powering through deep mud. 4H is more commonly used than 4L, and this setting is beneficial because it allows you to drive up to 55 mph while transferring torque to all four wheels. This setting comes in handy when you need additional traction.
In 2H (two-wheel drive, high range) two wheels, usually the rear, are driving your vehicle. You use 2H for normal road driving. In 4H (four-wheel drive, high range) all four wheels are driving your vehicle.
2H will provide the best fuel efficiency and least complicated drive. I can maintain my choice of when I want to engage 4wd by leaving it in 2wd. It does save some wear on the transfer case, though as you say if the system doesn`t engage it it shouldn`t matter.
Can you switch from 4WD to 2WD while driving? Yes on some systems you can switch happily between them whilst driving. normally 4L you must be stationary to select if unsure refer to manufacturers instructions.
Because the added traction of 4WD can allow a vehicle to accelerate more quickly in slippery conditions, drivers need to be more vigilant, not less.
Generally, 4WD and AWD are only necessary if you live in a climate where it snows and rains a lot. If you drive on dirt roads that are frequently muddy, they can provide more confidence when it matters most.
Here`s the answer: You can use either “2WD” or “Auto” all the time. If you don`t have any need for extra traction, using “2WD” may save a tiny bit of money on fuel and possibly some wear and tear on the four-wheel-drive components. “Auto” in your truck operates in two-wheel drive by default.
Rear-wheel drive cars are widely considered the best two-wheel drive option for towing, as front-wheel drives tend to be more sensitive to weight distribution. Testing has shown that two-wheel drives are more fuel efficient, even when towing, than four-wheel drive vehicles.