For a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the vehicle is equipped with a Full Time 4x4 System, meaning it's typically always engaged and intelligently distributes power to all four wheels as needed. You don't "turn on" the standard 4-wheel drive system in the traditional sense like a part-time system. However, for challenging off-road conditions, you can engage a specialized 4 Wheel Drive Low (4WD Low) mode.
Understanding Your Grand Cherokee's 4x4 System
The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee uses a sophisticated full-time 4x4 system, such as Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, or Quadra-Drive II, depending on the trim level. These systems automatically manage traction and power distribution, adapting to various road conditions without driver intervention. This means your vehicle is always utilizing its 4x4 capabilities for optimal grip and stability. Therefore, under normal driving circumstances, your 4-wheel drive is effectively "on" and operating automatically.
Engaging 4 Wheel Drive Low (4WD Low)
While the full-time 4x4 system is always active, the 4WD Low mode provides maximum torque and traction at very low speeds for extreme off-road situations like climbing steep hills, navigating rocky terrain, or driving through deep sand or mud. This mode should only be used in specific, demanding scenarios.
To engage 4WD Low on your 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, follow these steps:
- Stop the Vehicle: Bring your Jeep Grand Cherokee to a complete stop.
- Shift to Neutral: Place the transmission into the Neutral (N) position. This is crucial for safely engaging the low range.
- Press the 4WD Low Button: Locate the "4WD LOW" or "4LO" button, usually found on the center console near the gear selector. Press this button firmly. You may hear a click or clunk as the system engages, and an indicator light on your dashboard will confirm engagement.
- Shift to Drive: Once the 4WD Low indicator light is on, you can shift the transmission into Drive (D) or Reverse (R) to proceed.
Important Considerations for 4WD Low:
- Low Speeds Only: 4WD Low is designed for very low-speed driving (typically under 25 mph or 40 km/h). Driving at higher speeds in this mode can cause damage to the drivetrain.
- Off-Road Use: Only use 4WD Low when absolutely necessary for severe off-road conditions where maximum torque and slow speeds are required.
- Pavement Avoidance: Do not use 4WD Low on dry, hard-surface roads like pavement, as it can cause excessive wear, "crow-hopping" (a feeling of the vehicle binding or hopping), and potential damage to the drivetrain.
- Disengaging 4WD Low: To disengage, stop the vehicle, shift back into Neutral, press the 4WD Low button again, and then shift back into Drive. Ensure the indicator light turns off.
Summary of 4WD Modes
| Mode | Description | When to Use | Engagement Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time 4x4 | Always active; automatically distributes power to all wheels. | General driving, light off-road, wet/slippery roads, snow. | Automatic (always on, no driver input needed) |
| 4 Wheel Drive Low | Maximum torque and traction for extreme slow-speed off-road conditions. | Steep grades, deep mud/sand, rock crawling, severe snow drifts. | Stop, Shift to Neutral, Press 4WD Low button, Shift to Drive. |
For more detailed information on your specific vehicle's 4x4 system and its capabilities, always refer to your 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee's owner's manual or visit the official Jeep website.
