What is the "AUTO" setting on the electronic 4WD selector for?

 

When in auto, the rear wheels drive like normal, but there aresensors that sense wheel slip. When the rear wheels start to slip it automatically engages four wheel drive. I don't ever use it. In my opinion, if I want 4x4 I put it in 4x4.

 

I used it in the snow once. It seemed to be in full-time 4wd the entire time.

 

What do you mean it seemed to be in 4wd the entire time....? How could you tell? It engages the 4wd fast enought that you never feel the rear slip. The purpose of it is so you don't bind the front end up if you make a turn somewhere thats not slippery.

 

I mean it seemed, and perhaps I imagined it, to be putting extra load on the truck. It felt like it would sort ofgear down a little when I let off the gas. I also thought I could feel a little more vibration from the transfer case.

Can you use the AUTO setting at highway speeds (60-70mph) like a AWD?

 

Yes

In Auto4WD, the front axle is engaged, but power is sent to the rear wheels normally. When a loss of traction is sensed, power is sent to all four wheels.

 

Thanks.

 

You know what? Auto 4WD makes it simple for us simple folks! The responses I have seen describe to a tee what auto 4WD does. Let's put it in layman's terms. If you have less than 4 inches of snow and partially slippery roads then Auto 4wd works fine! If you are lucky enough to get more than 4 inches of snow then stick with 4WD Hi. If you get more than a foot of snow you might want to understand what 4low is but the only time I've used 4low is mud and when I need power. There are many members of the forum who understand and can explain in laymen's terms when and where is best to use 4WD low.

If you don't have an owner's manual I suggest you get one. It can't be anymore simple than what the manufacturer is telling us! The reading is meant for dummies!
4" is the key though to good use of auto versus 4wd high.

 

Well said Eric.

I'll also add that as you move "down" from 2WD, to Auto4WD, to 4HI, to 4LO, you're decreasing gas mileage and putting a little more strain on the drivetrain. So, use the "highest" you can (no need to run in Auto on clear pavement, for example)

 

In auto4wd I feel a clunk when the transfer case locks up.