Understanding when and how to shift between 4WD modes helps you maximize traction when you need it while avoiding driveline damage. Your 4th Gen Tacoma's part-time 4WD system gives you three distinct modes. Rear-wheel drive for normal conditions, 4H for slippery surfaces, and 4L for serious off-road obstacles.
(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 404-406)
Use this for normal driving on dry hard-surfaced roads. Best fuel economy, quietest ride, least wear.
When to use 2H:
Indicator: No 4WD indicators illuminated on dashboard
Use this for driving on surfaces that allow tire slip. Off-road, icy roads, or snow-covered pavement. More traction than two-wheel drive.
When to use 4H:
Indicator: "4HI" indicator illuminates on dashboard
Important: 4H uses a traditional locked transfer case. The front and rear axles are mechanically locked at the same speed. Unlike full-time AWD systems, don't use 4H on dry pavement. It will cause driveline binding during turns.
Use this for maximum power and traction when climbing or descending steep hills, off-road driving, and hard pulling in sand, mud, or deep snow.
When to use 4L:
Indicator: "4LO" indicator illuminates on dashboard
System Note: VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) automatically turns off when you shift to 4L. The system needs to allow controlled wheel slip for off-road maneuvering.
4L provides low-range gear reduction in the transfer case, multiplying engine torque for maximum pulling power. This mode is designed for speeds under 25 mph and allows precise throttle control for obstacles.
2H to 4H:
4H to 2H:
Pro Tip: The 4th Gen Tacoma uses an electronically actuated transfer case with synchronized shifting. It handles the synchronization automatically. But if you're on a surface with high traction (like dry pavement by mistake), the shift may not complete smoothly. Best practice: shift on loose surfaces or while driving straight at constant speed.
4H to 4L (Automatic Transmission):
4H to 4L (Manual Transmission):
Why Neutral? Shifting to Neutral (automatic) or holding the clutch (manual) disconnects the drivetrain from the engine. This allows the transfer case to complete the shift without fighting transmission load. If you try to shift without following this procedure, the transfer case may refuse to engage or struggle to complete the shift.
4L to 4H (Automatic Transmission):
4L to 4H (Manual Transmission):
If the "4HI" indicator flashes:
This means the transfer mode hasn't successfully changed yet. Drive straight ahead while accelerating or decelerating, or drive in reverse.
Why this happens: There's a speed mismatch between the front and rear driveshafts. The transfer case synchronizers need the speeds to match before the shift can complete. Gentle acceleration or deceleration (straight line, no turning) changes the front/rear speed relationship and allows the shift to finish. Normal behavior.
If "4HI" is ON and "4LO" continues to flash:
Shift to D or R (automatic) or 1st gear or Reverse (manual) and drive the vehicle slowly, then stop.
If "4HI" continues to flash and "4LO" is ON:
Shift to D or R (automatic) or 1st gear or Reverse (manual) and drive the vehicle slowly, then stop.
If "4HI" is ON, "4LO" flashes, AND a buzzer sounds:
The shift lever isn't in N (automatic) or the clutch pedal isn't held down (manual), and/or the vehicle is moving. Stop the vehicle completely, shift to N, and make sure the indicator stops flashing.
If "4HI" and "4LO" indicators flash rapidly:
This indicates a malfunction in the four-wheel drive system. Unlike the other flashing scenarios which are normal during shifts, rapid flashing of both indicators means the transfer case control module has detected a fault. Have your truck inspected by a Toyota dealer.
Right after starting the engine in low-temperature environments, shifting between 4H and 4L may be prohibited because the transmission fluid is cold. A warning message will display in the multi-information display.
Why this happens: The transfer case shares lubrication with the transmission on some configurations, or uses ATF-type fluid. When fluid is very cold, its viscosity is too high for the transfer case actuator to overcome. The system prevents shifting to protect the mechanism.
Solution: Let the vehicle idle for 5-10 minutes or drive gently in 2H for a few miles to warm the fluid. Then try the shift again.
Drive in four-wheel drive for at least 10 miles each month. This ensures the front drive components stay lubricated.
Why this matters: Even if you don't need 4WD for your normal driving, engaging 4H once a month and driving for at least 10 miles circulates lubricant through the front differential, CV axles, and transfer case front output components. Without regular use, seals can dry out and bearings can develop corrosion spots.
Pro Tip: Make this part of your monthly routine. Take a 10-mile drive on a rainy day or dirt road in 4H mode. Don't engage 4L unless you're actually using it off-road, as the low-range gearing isn't suitable for normal driving speeds.
WARNING
Shifting from "2H" to "4H" while driving
Never operate the front-wheel drive control switch if the wheels are slipping. Stop the slipping or spinning before shifting.
4H Can Be Engaged Up to 60 MPH, But That's Just For Shifting
The 60 mph limit applies to the shift from 2H to 4H or vice versa. Once you're in 4H, there's no speed limit for driving in that mode. Keep speeds reasonable because you're on slippery surfaces.
Source: Tacoma4G.com, TacomaExplorer.com
Patchy Snow/Ice Conditions: Stay in 2H
If roads have patches of snow but also dry pavement, stay in 2H. Only switch to 4H when the entire road surface is covered in snow or ice. Using 4H on partial dry pavement causes driveline binding.
Source: Tacoma4G.com
You'll Never Need 4L on Snow-Covered Roads
4L is for extreme low-speed traction situations (rock crawling, steep grades, recovery). Snow-covered roads, even heavy snow, use 4H. Save 4L for genuine off-road obstacles.
Source: CanadianGearhead.com
Monthly 10-Mile Drive in 4WD Prevents Sticky Engagement
Community confirms the manual's monthly usage recommendation. If you don't engage 4WD regularly, it can become sticky or eventually stuck. The system needs regular lubrication circulation.
Source: ToyotaNation.com
Engage 4H While Driving for Smoother Shifts
Rather than stopping to engage 4H, shift while rolling at moderate speed (under 60 mph). The synchronized transfer case engages more smoothly when there's slight movement.
Source: TacomaForum.com
Using 4H on Dry Pavement Creates Driveline Binding
The part-time 4WD system mechanically locks front and rear axles at the same speed. On dry pavement (high traction), this causes the driveline to "bind" during turns because the front and rear wheels travel different distances. This puts tremendous stress on the transfer case and drivetrain. Sharp turns on dry pavement in 4H create the most stress and can damage transfer case, u-joints, and axle components over time.
Source: CanadianGearhead.com
Confusing 4L for "Better Traction in Snow"
4L doesn't give you more traction than 4H. It gives you more torque at lower speeds through gear reduction. For snow-covered roads, 4H provides the same traction with normal gearing. 4L is only for obstacles requiring slow, steady power. Using 4L unnecessarily on roads limits your speed to about 25 mph when 4H would work perfectly at highway speeds.
Source: TacomaExplorer.com, Tacoma4G.com
Forgetting That Rain Doesn't Require 4WD
If it's just raining (no snow/ice), stay in 2H. There's still too much traction for 4H use. The Tacoma's traction control in 2H handles rain effectively. Unnecessary 4H use on wet-but-grippy pavement can still cause minor binding and increases fuel consumption.
Source: Tacoma4G.com
Complete information can be found in your 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual:
Pages Covered in This Thread:
Owner's Manual Pages:
Additional Sources:
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (Document Number OM04041U) with supplementary information from the owner community and automotive enthusiast sources. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only.
The information in this thread is for educational purposes. For official guidance, consult your vehicle's owner's manual or a Toyota dealership. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, always verify procedures and specifications with official Toyota documentation.
(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 404-406)
4WD Modes, Transfer Case, 2H 4H 4L, Shifting Four Wheel Drive
2H (Two-Wheel Drive High)
Use this for normal driving on dry hard-surfaced roads. Best fuel economy, quietest ride, least wear.
When to use 2H:
- All highway and paved road driving
- Dry conditions with good traction
- Maximum fuel economy needed
- Quietest, smoothest ride
Indicator: No 4WD indicators illuminated on dashboard
4H (Four-Wheel Drive High)
Use this for driving on surfaces that allow tire slip. Off-road, icy roads, or snow-covered pavement. More traction than two-wheel drive.
When to use 4H:
- Snow-covered roads
- Ice or slippery pavement
- Muddy dirt roads
- Loose gravel surfaces
- Light to moderate off-road trails
- Any surface where tires can slip naturally
Indicator: "4HI" indicator illuminates on dashboard
Important: 4H uses a traditional locked transfer case. The front and rear axles are mechanically locked at the same speed. Unlike full-time AWD systems, don't use 4H on dry pavement. It will cause driveline binding during turns.
4L (Four-Wheel Drive Low)
Use this for maximum power and traction when climbing or descending steep hills, off-road driving, and hard pulling in sand, mud, or deep snow.
When to use 4L:
- Steep hill ascents or descents
- Deep sand, mud, or snow requiring slow steady power
- Rock crawling and technical off-road obstacles
- Recovery situations (unstuck vehicle)
- Situations requiring maximum torque at low speed
Indicator: "4LO" indicator illuminates on dashboard
System Note: VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) automatically turns off when you shift to 4L. The system needs to allow controlled wheel slip for off-road maneuvering.
4L provides low-range gear reduction in the transfer case, multiplying engine torque for maximum pulling power. This mode is designed for speeds under 25 mph and allows precise throttle control for obstacles.
Shifting Procedures
Shifting Between 2H and 4H (Can Shift While Moving)
2H to 4H:
- Reduce vehicle speed to less than 62 mph
- Push and turn the front-wheel drive control switch to "4H"
- Confirm "4HI" indicator illuminates on the instrument cluster
4H to 2H:
- Reduce vehicle speed to less than 62 mph
- Push and turn the front-wheel drive control switch to "2H"
- Confirm "4HI" indicator goes off
Pro Tip: The 4th Gen Tacoma uses an electronically actuated transfer case with synchronized shifting. It handles the synchronization automatically. But if you're on a surface with high traction (like dry pavement by mistake), the shift may not complete smoothly. Best practice: shift on loose surfaces or while driving straight at constant speed.
Shifting Between 4H and 4L (Must Stop Completely)
4H to 4L (Automatic Transmission):
- Stop the vehicle completely and continue to depress the brake pedal
- Shift the transmission to N (Neutral)
- Push and turn the front-wheel drive control switch to "4L"
- Confirm "4LO" indicator illuminates and "4HI" indicator goes off
4H to 4L (Manual Transmission):
- Stop the vehicle completely and continue to depress the brake pedal
- Depress and hold the clutch pedal
- Push and turn the front-wheel drive control switch to "4L"
- Confirm "4LO" indicator illuminates and "4HI" indicator goes off
Why Neutral? Shifting to Neutral (automatic) or holding the clutch (manual) disconnects the drivetrain from the engine. This allows the transfer case to complete the shift without fighting transmission load. If you try to shift without following this procedure, the transfer case may refuse to engage or struggle to complete the shift.
4L to 4H (Automatic Transmission):
- Stop the vehicle completely and continue to depress the brake pedal
- Shift the transmission to N (Neutral)
- Push and turn the front-wheel drive control switch to "4H"
- Confirm "4LO" indicator goes off and "4HI" indicator illuminates
4L to 4H (Manual Transmission):
- Stop the vehicle completely and continue to depress the brake pedal
- Depress and hold the clutch pedal
- Push and turn the front-wheel drive control switch to "4H"
- Confirm "4LO" indicator goes off and "4HI" indicator illuminates
Indicator Light Troubleshooting
If the "4HI" indicator flashes:
This means the transfer mode hasn't successfully changed yet. Drive straight ahead while accelerating or decelerating, or drive in reverse.
Why this happens: There's a speed mismatch between the front and rear driveshafts. The transfer case synchronizers need the speeds to match before the shift can complete. Gentle acceleration or deceleration (straight line, no turning) changes the front/rear speed relationship and allows the shift to finish. Normal behavior.
If "4HI" is ON and "4LO" continues to flash:
Shift to D or R (automatic) or 1st gear or Reverse (manual) and drive the vehicle slowly, then stop.
If "4HI" continues to flash and "4LO" is ON:
Shift to D or R (automatic) or 1st gear or Reverse (manual) and drive the vehicle slowly, then stop.
If "4HI" is ON, "4LO" flashes, AND a buzzer sounds:
The shift lever isn't in N (automatic) or the clutch pedal isn't held down (manual), and/or the vehicle is moving. Stop the vehicle completely, shift to N, and make sure the indicator stops flashing.
If "4HI" and "4LO" indicators flash rapidly:
This indicates a malfunction in the four-wheel drive system. Unlike the other flashing scenarios which are normal during shifts, rapid flashing of both indicators means the transfer case control module has detected a fault. Have your truck inspected by a Toyota dealer.
Special Operating Conditions
Cold Temperature Shifting Limitation
Right after starting the engine in low-temperature environments, shifting between 4H and 4L may be prohibited because the transmission fluid is cold. A warning message will display in the multi-information display.
Why this happens: The transfer case shares lubrication with the transmission on some configurations, or uses ATF-type fluid. When fluid is very cold, its viscosity is too high for the transfer case actuator to overcome. The system prevents shifting to protect the mechanism.
Solution: Let the vehicle idle for 5-10 minutes or drive gently in 2H for a few miles to warm the fluid. Then try the shift again.
Monthly 4WD Maintenance
Drive in four-wheel drive for at least 10 miles each month. This ensures the front drive components stay lubricated.
Why this matters: Even if you don't need 4WD for your normal driving, engaging 4H once a month and driving for at least 10 miles circulates lubricant through the front differential, CV axles, and transfer case front output components. Without regular use, seals can dry out and bearings can develop corrosion spots.
Pro Tip: Make this part of your monthly routine. Take a 10-mile drive on a rainy day or dirt road in 4H mode. Don't engage 4L unless you're actually using it off-road, as the low-range gearing isn't suitable for normal driving speeds.
Safety Precautions
WARNING
Shifting from "2H" to "4H" while driving
Never operate the front-wheel drive control switch if the wheels are slipping. Stop the slipping or spinning before shifting.
Real-World Tips & Context
4H Can Be Engaged Up to 60 MPH, But That's Just For Shifting
The 60 mph limit applies to the shift from 2H to 4H or vice versa. Once you're in 4H, there's no speed limit for driving in that mode. Keep speeds reasonable because you're on slippery surfaces.
Source: Tacoma4G.com, TacomaExplorer.com
Patchy Snow/Ice Conditions: Stay in 2H
If roads have patches of snow but also dry pavement, stay in 2H. Only switch to 4H when the entire road surface is covered in snow or ice. Using 4H on partial dry pavement causes driveline binding.
Source: Tacoma4G.com
You'll Never Need 4L on Snow-Covered Roads
4L is for extreme low-speed traction situations (rock crawling, steep grades, recovery). Snow-covered roads, even heavy snow, use 4H. Save 4L for genuine off-road obstacles.
Source: CanadianGearhead.com
Monthly 10-Mile Drive in 4WD Prevents Sticky Engagement
Community confirms the manual's monthly usage recommendation. If you don't engage 4WD regularly, it can become sticky or eventually stuck. The system needs regular lubrication circulation.
Source: ToyotaNation.com
Engage 4H While Driving for Smoother Shifts
Rather than stopping to engage 4H, shift while rolling at moderate speed (under 60 mph). The synchronized transfer case engages more smoothly when there's slight movement.
Source: TacomaForum.com
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using 4H on Dry Pavement Creates Driveline Binding
The part-time 4WD system mechanically locks front and rear axles at the same speed. On dry pavement (high traction), this causes the driveline to "bind" during turns because the front and rear wheels travel different distances. This puts tremendous stress on the transfer case and drivetrain. Sharp turns on dry pavement in 4H create the most stress and can damage transfer case, u-joints, and axle components over time.
Source: CanadianGearhead.com
Confusing 4L for "Better Traction in Snow"
4L doesn't give you more traction than 4H. It gives you more torque at lower speeds through gear reduction. For snow-covered roads, 4H provides the same traction with normal gearing. 4L is only for obstacles requiring slow, steady power. Using 4L unnecessarily on roads limits your speed to about 25 mph when 4H would work perfectly at highway speeds.
Source: TacomaExplorer.com, Tacoma4G.com
Forgetting That Rain Doesn't Require 4WD
If it's just raining (no snow/ice), stay in 2H. There's still too much traction for 4H use. The Tacoma's traction control in 2H handles rain effectively. Unnecessary 4H use on wet-but-grippy pavement can still cause minor binding and increases fuel consumption.
Source: Tacoma4G.com
Manual Pages Reference
Complete information can be found in your 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual:
Pages Covered in This Thread:
- Primary procedure: Pages 404-406
- Mode descriptions and when to use each mode
- Shifting procedures for automatic and manual transmissions
- Indicator light meanings and troubleshooting
- Special operating conditions and maintenance requirements
Source Attribution
Owner's Manual Pages:
- Primary information: Pages 404-406
- Mode descriptions: Pages 404-405
- Shifting procedures: Pages 405-406
- Troubleshooting: Page 406
- Maintenance requirements: Page 406
Additional Sources:
- Tacoma4G.com
- TacomaExplorer.com
- TacomaForum.com
- ToyotaNation.com
- CanadianGearhead.com
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (Document Number OM04041U) with supplementary information from the owner community and automotive enthusiast sources. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only.
The information in this thread is for educational purposes. For official guidance, consult your vehicle's owner's manual or a Toyota dealership. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, always verify procedures and specifications with official Toyota documentation.
