One of the advantages of the driving modes available in Jeep vehicles is that they help you navigate different weather conditions with ease. Whether you’re driving a model equipped with the Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, a 4xe model with hybrid driving modes, or a Jeep Wrangler with its specialized 4WD transfer case settings, we want to make sure you understand how these different settings work and help you in different situations. So, keep reading to learn all about the various drive modes that might be available in your Jeep.
Selec-Terrain Traction Management System
All Jeep models – with the exception of the Wrangler and Gladiator – offer the Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, which is capable of adjusting a dozen different systems within your vehicle to maximize traction. These systems include braking, stability control, transmission shift points, and many others. There are four different selectable modes, which can help you with the changing weather:
- Auto Mode
- This is your "set it and forget it" default for everyday driving. In clear weather, it typically sends more power to the rear wheels to improve fuel efficiency. However, if the system detects a slip due to a sudden rain shower or a patch of gravel, it automatically redistributes torque to the wheels with the most grip.
- Snow Mode
- When the temperature drops and the roads get slick, Snow Mode is your best friend. It adjusts the transmission to start in second gear instead of first. This reduces the amount of torque hitting the pavement initially, which prevents your tires from spinning on ice or slush. It also tunes the stability control to be more proactive against skidding.
- Mud/Sand Mode
- This mode is designed for surfaces where you might actually need some wheel spin to maintain momentum. In heavy rain where mud becomes an issue, or if you're going to tackle some dunes, this setting recalibrates the throttle to be more aggressive and maximizes torque delivery to help you power through loose terrain without getting bogged down.
- Sport Mode
- Best reserved for dry, paved roads, Sport Mode tightens steering and adjusts shift points for a more responsive feel. While fun for a clear-day cruise, it is generally not recommended for inclement weather as it prioritizes performance over traction-limiting safety features.
- Rock Mode
- Only available on select models, this mode is designed for technical, low-speed off-road maneuvers. While it’s designed for crawling over boulders, it can also help with low-speed recovery in severe weather by delivering the maximum possible torque.
4WD Transfer Case Settings
The iconic off-road juggernaut known as the Jeep Wrangler does not offer Selec-Terrain, but instead offers a choice of various 4x4 systems like Selec-Trac and Command-Trac. The same is true for the Jeep Gladiator. Rather than choosing between the four aforementioned modes, you’ll be able to choose between 2H, 4H, and 4L.
- 2H (Two-Wheel Drive High)
- Use this for normal, dry pavement. It provides the best fuel economy and the smoothest ride.
- 4H (Four-Wheel Drive High)
- When rain starts to pool on the road or light snow begins to stick, shift into 4H. It’s ideal for variable conditions where the road might be part dry and part slick. 4H allows you to maintain normal speeds while providing power to all four wheels for better stability.
- 4L (Four-Wheel Drive Low)
- 4L is a high-torque setting meant for low-speed crawling, typically under 25 mph. Use this only in extreme weather scenarios, such as being stuck in a deep snowdrift or navigating a steep, muddy incline.
Additional Hybrid Driving Modes
In addition to one of the aforementioned options, if you drive a 4xe model your driving modes will be expanded to include Hybrid, Electric, and eSave modes. While these modes are more about enhancing efficiency than helping in different weather conditions, we wanted to at least mention them.
- Hybrid Mode
- Blends power from the engine and electric motors, providing a balance of torque and efficiency.
- Electric Mode
- Prioritizes battery power for a quiet, emissions-free drive until the battery reaches its minimum state of charge.
- eSave Mode
- Prioritizes the gasoline engine to save the battery's charge for later use, such as for low-speed cruising or off-roading.
Find Your New Jeep Vehicle at Jim Glover CDJRF
If you already own a Jeep, we hope this helps you understand the driving modes that your vehicle offers. If you’re just considering one and wanted to learn more about it, we hope this answered your questions! If you have more, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here at the desk. We look forward to hearing from you and hope to see you behind the wheel of a new model down the road.