How to Shift Your Jeep into 4 Low

How to Shift into 4 Wheel Drive

Shifter

In the past, I had a hard time shifting into 4L when I was on the trails. Every time my gears would grind which told me I was doing it wrong. I tried several different ways but the grinding continued. It was stressful every time I would go to shift to 4 low because I was nervous about ruining the gears.

I had several off-roaders show me the right way which coincides with the Jeep manual.

Watch Here ➤➤ How to Shift Your Jeep Wrangler into 4WD 

Watch Here ➤➤ When to Shift to 4 Lo and 4 High 

3 EASY Steps to Shifting your JK or JKU to 4Lo

Step 1: While in Drive shift your transfer case to 4H.

Step 2: Once in 4H shift your transmission shifter into N. 

Step 3: Now shift your transfer case shifter from 4Hi thru N to 4L.  

Once in 4L you can enhance your control by using Autostick. What is Autostick?

It is possible to shift into and out of 4L with the vehicle completely stopped. However, it could be difficult because the teeth aren't properly aligned. Several attempts may be needed and a slow roll between 1 and 5 mph in neutral might be needed.  Also shift quickly, don't drag it out. Some Jeeps engage better while slightly moving, and others lock in while stopped. 

For more information on when and how to switch from 2WD to 4H to 4L check out this blog post ➤➤ When and How to Use 4WD 

Jeep on downhill trail

The Jeep manual reads:

"With the vehicle rolling at 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h), shift an automatic transmission to Neutral or depress the clutch pedal on a manual transmission. While the vehicle is coasting at to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h), shift the transfer case lever firmly through Neutral and into the low-range position."

"Shifting into or out of 4WD low-range is possible with the vehicle completely stopped, however, difficulty may occur due to the teeth of the gears not being properly aligned. The preferred method to engage the low-range is to slow down to 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h) and put the transmission in Neutral. While still moving forward, move the shift lever firmly into the four-low position. Then return the transmission to the desired gear. Refer to your owner's manual for detailed instructions."