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Patriot 4 wheel drive system

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danbo

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Discussion starter · #1 ·
I am a little confused about the 4x4 system on the Patriot after speaking to 2 salespeople at different dealerships. On the center console there is a lever that says 4 wheel drive lock. My understanding was that this was to enhance to 4 wheel drive system that was already on by locking something (don't remember specifics!). But both salespeople said that they think when the lever is down the vehicle is in 2WD and when you pull the lever you are then in 4WD. I didn't know the Patriot had the ability to turn the 4WD off and on as they are saying. Are they correct?
 
#2 ·
The Patriot runs in front wheel drive automatically, to reduce friction and increase MPG. When the computer senses wheel slippage, it will automatically switch to four wheel drive. In this mode, it really is an all wheel drive system. Power is sent to the wheel with traction, and not to the slipping wheel.

The four wheel drive lock mode is used when you know you are starting off on ice, snow, or loose sand. In this case you want to lock all four wheels to rotate together at the same speed, regardless of traction or lack thereof.
 
#5 ·
4x4 lock is not like traction control-that is the always on automatic system.

In 4x4 lock the wheels are locked for synchronized rotation of all four wheels together, regardless if one is spinning, or even not in contact w/the ground. Go to youtube and watch (closely) the B roll video. When the wheels are up in the air, they continue to rotate at the same speed as the wheels that are in contact w/the ground.
 
#7 ·
This link on Jeep.com web site has some nice flash video for all the Jeep 4x4 systems. Mouse over the "Get Ready" and choose the "See How Jeep 4x4 Systems work". Choose your 4wd system to see how your's works.

Jeep 4WD systems
 
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