Can You Drive in 4×4 on the Highway? Which Southside Dodge Vehicles Can (and Can’t)
One of the most common questions we hear from Alberta drivers every winter is: “Can I leave my truck in 4×4 on the highway?” The answer depends entirely on which vehicle you drive and what type of four-wheel drive system it has. Some vehicles sold at Southside Dodge are designed to be driven in four-wheel […]
One of the most common questions we hear from Alberta drivers every winter is:
“Can I leave my truck in 4×4 on the highway?”
The answer depends entirely on which vehicle you drive and what type of four-wheel drive system it has.
Some vehicles sold at Southside Dodge are designed to be driven in four-wheel drive on any road surface, while others should only use 4WD when traction is poor.
Here’s a simple guide to the Ram, Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler vehicles we sell.
Quick Answer
| Vehicle | Drive in 4WD on Dry Highway? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ram 1500 (with 4WD Auto) | ✅ Yes | Best choice for Alberta winters |
| Ram 1500 (Part-Time 4WD only) | ❌ No | Use 2WD unless roads are slippery |
| Ram 2500 | ❌ Usually No | Use 4HI only on snow, ice, gravel or mud |
| Ram 3500 | ❌ Usually No | Same as Ram 2500 |
| Jeep Wrangler | ❌ No | Only in 2H unless equipped with Full-Time 4WD |
| Jeep Wrangler 4xe | Depends | Some trims include Full-Time Auto mode |
| Jeep Gladiator | ❌ No | Part-Time 4WD on most models |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee Quadra-Trac I | ✅ Yes | Full-Time AWD |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee Quadra-Trac II | ✅ Yes | Full-Time 4WD |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland/Summit (Quadra-Drive II) | ✅ Yes | Full-Time 4WD |
| Jeep Compass | ✅ Yes | Automatic AWD |
| Jeep Cherokee (Used) | ✅ Yes | Active Drive AWD |
| Jeep Renegade | ✅ Yes | Automatic AWD |
| Dodge Durango AWD | ✅ Yes | Full-Time AWD |
| Chrysler Pacifica AWD | ✅ Yes | Automatic AWD |
| Dodge Hornet AWD | ✅ Yes | AWD engages automatically |
Vehicles You CAN Drive in 4WD or AWD on the Highway
These vehicles are designed to automatically manage power between the front and rear wheels.
That means you can confidently drive on:
- Dry pavement
- Rain
- Snow
- Ice
- Mixed Alberta road conditions
These systems automatically adjust traction without damaging the drivetrain.
Ram 1500 with 4WD Auto
Many newer Ram 1500 models feature 4WD Auto, making them one of the best trucks for Alberta’s unpredictable winters.
Simply leave the truck in Auto mode, and it will engage the front wheels only when additional traction is needed.
Perfect for:
- Highway commuting
- Winter road trips
- Changing weather
- Everyday driving
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Grand Cherokee features some of Jeep’s most advanced four-wheel-drive systems.
Depending on trim level, it may include:
- Quadra-Trac I
- Quadra-Trac II
- Quadra-Drive II
All are designed for year-round use on paved roads.
Jeep Compass
The Jeep Compass uses an intelligent Active Drive AWD system that automatically sends power where it’s needed.
There’s no need to manually switch into four-wheel drive.
Dodge Durango AWD
Durango’s all-wheel-drive system continuously monitors traction, making it an excellent family SUV for Alberta winters.
Chrysler Pacifica AWD
Even our minivan lineup includes available AWD, providing additional confidence during snowstorms without requiring any driver input.
Vehicles You SHOULD NOT Leave in 4HI on Dry Highways
These vehicles use Part-Time Four-Wheel Drive.
When 4HI is selected, the front and rear axles are mechanically locked together.
On dry pavement this can cause:
- Drivetrain binding
- Increased tire wear
- Hard steering
- Additional stress on drivetrain components
Ram 2500
The Heavy Duty Ram is built for towing, hauling, and demanding work.
Use:
- 2WD on dry pavement
- 4HI on snow, ice, mud, or gravel
- 4LO only for severe off-road conditions
Ram 3500
Like the Ram 2500, the Ram 3500’s part-time transfer case should only be engaged when additional traction is required.
Jeep Wrangler
The Wrangler’s legendary Trail Rated® capability comes from its part-time four-wheel-drive system.
Most Wranglers should remain in:
- 2H on dry roads
- 4H on slippery roads
- 4L off-road
Exception: Some Wrangler trims equipped with the Selec-Trac Full-Time 4WD system can be safely driven in Full-Time mode on dry pavement. If you’re unsure which transfer case your Wrangler has, check your owner’s manual or ask our team.
Jeep Gladiator
Like the Wrangler, the Gladiator uses a part-time four-wheel-drive system on most trims.
It excels off-road but should remain in 2H when roads are dry.
What About 4WD Auto?
This is where many drivers get confused.
There is a huge difference between:
- 4WD Auto
- 4HI
4WD Auto constantly monitors traction and automatically transfers power when needed.
4HI permanently locks both axles together.
If your Ram has 4WD Auto, it’s perfectly safe to leave it engaged during Alberta winters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my Ram 1500 in 4WD on Highway 2?
Yes, if your Ram is equipped with 4WD Auto. If it has only a traditional part-time 4WD system, use 2WD on dry pavement and switch to 4HI only when roads are snow-covered, icy, or otherwise slippery.
Can I leave my Jeep Wrangler in 4HI all winter?
No. Most Wrangler models should only use 4HI when road conditions are slippery. If your Wrangler has Selec-Trac Full-Time 4WD, you can use the Full-Time mode on dry roads.
Is AWD different from 4WD?
Yes. AWD systems (like those in the Grand Cherokee, Compass, Durango, Hornet, and Pacifica) are designed for year-round use on any road surface. Traditional part-time 4WD systems require the driver to select the appropriate mode.
Does 4WD help you stop?
No. Four-wheel drive helps you accelerate and maintain traction but does not reduce braking distance. Winter tires remain one of the most important safety features for Alberta driving.
Find the Right 4WD System at Southside Dodge
Whether you’re looking for a Ram 1500 with 4WD Auto, a Jeep Grand Cherokee with Quadra-Drive II, or a Wrangler built for off-road adventures, the team at Southside Dodge can help you choose the right drivetrain for your lifestyle.
Visit us to compare Ram trucks, Jeep SUVs, Dodge performance vehicles, and Chrysler family vehicles, and let our experts explain the differences between AWD, Full-Time 4WD, Part-Time 4WD, and 4WD Auto.
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