Jeep Off-Road Capability Explained
Presented by Dick Scott CDJR
Over the course of its 80-year history, the Jeep brand has tirelessly been perfecting the art of off-road capability. Jeep specializes in three systems that give their Trail Rated vehicles their world-class capability; four-wheel drive, traction management, and suspension. All three of these systems work together seamlessly to provide drivers with a one-of-a-kind driving experience. Keep reading below to take an in-depth look at exactly what goes on behind the scenes of Jeep's most capable vehicles.
What Are Jeep's Four-Wheel-Drive Systems?
Jeep offers many different drivetrains, each with its own unique name, Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, Quadra-Drive II with an Electronic Limited Slip Rear Differential, Rock-Trac, Command-Trac, Active Drive, Active Drive Low, Active Drive Lock, Active Drive I, and Active Drive II. All of these are an adaptation of either full-time four-wheel-drive, part-time 4WD, or on-demand 4WD systems. Here is what all this means.
Full-time 4WD: Jeep's full-time 4WD systems uses a center differential to rotate the driveshafts at different speeds. Four-wheel drive is the default drive providing maximum traction without the driver needing to pull a lever or hit a button. Quadra-Trac I is an example of full-time 4WD.
Part-time 4WD: Part-time 4WD systems employ a transfer case that defaults to 2WD. Drivers can shift into 4WD on the fly to adapt to the terrain they're driving on. The system has four-low mode to provide low-speed crawling control. Command-Trac and Rock-Trac are examples of part-Time 4WD.
On-demand 4WD: On-Demand 4WD systems operate similarly to part-time systems. The on-demand systems default to 2WD but can automatically switch to 4WD on their own when driving conditions require it. This gives drivers unrivaled capability without being distracted by levers or buttons. The Active-Drive systems are examples of on-demand 4WD
Full-time 4WD: Jeep's full-time 4WD systems uses a center differential to rotate the driveshafts at different speeds. Four-wheel drive is the default drive providing maximum traction without the driver needing to pull a lever or hit a button. Quadra-Trac I is an example of full-time 4WD.
Part-time 4WD: Part-time 4WD systems employ a transfer case that defaults to 2WD. Drivers can shift into 4WD on the fly to adapt to the terrain they're driving on. The system has four-low mode to provide low-speed crawling control. Command-Trac and Rock-Trac are examples of part-Time 4WD.
On-demand 4WD: On-Demand 4WD systems operate similarly to part-time systems. The on-demand systems default to 2WD but can automatically switch to 4WD on their own when driving conditions require it. This gives drivers unrivaled capability without being distracted by levers or buttons. The Active-Drive systems are examples of on-demand 4WD
What is Selec-Terrain?
Selec-Terrain is Jeep's name for its Traction Management System. On a rotary knob located on the center console, drivers can select Auto, Snow, Sport, Sand/Mud, and Rock modes. Auto mode puts the vehicle in control, allowing it to seamlessly shift between two and four-wheel drives and optimize the traction control system to give drivers optimal grip across changing road conditions. If the driver selects Snow mode, the air springs will increase the ground clearance while the differentials distribute torque to the wheels with the most traction providing optimal grip and preventing wheel slippage. Sport mode lowers the Quadra-Lift air springs to provide better aerodynamics. Meanwhile, when Sport mode is selected, it adjusts transmission shift points and throttle control to give drivers a fun on-road driving experience. The Sand/Mud setting optimizes the traction control system to sense or predict wheel spin and redistribute torque to limit or even prevent slippage. Lastly, Rock mode fully extends the air springs, shifts the transfer case to a low-range gear ratio, and adjusts throttle control to provide the maximum low-speed crawling capability.
Can You Tell Me About the Quadra-Lift System?
Absolutely! Jeep's air suspension system goes by the name Quadra-Lift. Jeep's that are equipped with Quadra-Lift utilize a four-corner air spring system to provide optimal ground clearance, peak performance, and a comfortable ride across various road conditions. The system has five adjustable ride height modes. The system defaults to Normal Ride Height (NRH), Park, Aero, Off-Road 1, and Off-Road 2. Park mode lowers the system make entering and exiting the vehicle easy for all passengers. Aero mode lowers the front springs slightly more than the rear providing better aerodynamics for a fun driving experience. Off-Road 1 raises the system one inch higher than the NRH, while Off-Road 2 rises two inches to provide optimal ground clearance over virtually any terrain.
Jeep 4x4 Vehicles at Dick Scott CDJR
In the automotive industry, there are very few manufacturers that can compete with Jeep when it comes to providing off-road capability with a street-legal vehicle. Interested in getting behind the wheel of a 4x4 legend? Come on down to Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to experience the superior all-terrain capability of the Jeep lineup. Our friendly sales associates are ready to show you our full inventory, answer any of your questions, and accompany you on a test drive. You can also start your search right now by checking out our full inventory of Jeep 4x4 vehicles right here on our website.
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