AWD VS 4WD

[paceman]

OK help me undetrstand the difference. My 2001 expedition is AWD. I love it for driving around town on the slippery intersections.. How does that work? Is it 2wd until one of the tires spins? When in 4WD is the front tire supposed tp spin when stuck? This past weekend I was stuck on the lake. Had it in 4WD but the front tire was not spinning all the time? Should I just leave it in AWD all the time? When should I switch it it 4WD. Sorry for the ramble. I am confusing myself typing this.

[Jeremy airjer W]

I'm pretty sure the explorers are automatic AWD. In the AWD position the drivetrain for the most part will be in 2WD until it senses the rears are slipping then it will automatically engage the 4WD.

With the switch in the 4WD position the drive drain is locked into four wheel drive all the time.

You will get the best fuel economy with it in AWD since the drivetrain for the most part will be in 2 wheel drive.

[Scott K]

Airjer is correct.