Drive Mode during Winter

[Yosemite]

First‑time 4Runner owner here. I’m in Canada, and our winters can last 5–6 months. For most of that time the roads are icy or snow‑covered, and by March–April they’re usually more slushy.

My question is: which drive mode should I use in winter? Is it safe to stay in 4H for the entire 5–6 months?

For context, I drive about 30-50 km(pure highway) a day, 5-6 days a week.

My old vehicle was 2014 GMC Sierra and i set it to Auto during winter.

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[Wandering Sagebrush]

My 2¢… if you don’t need 4WD, don’t use it. Have VERY good winter tires (mounted on rims) like Bridgestone Blizzaks, drive sanely, leave lots of stopping room, carry chains and traction boards.

 

[mfoga]

Best answer is to watch this and make your own informed decision

 

[Tarekith]

The downside of 4WD is that you can’t turn very tightly without doing possible damage over time. This is a good overview video about when and where to use 4WD on Toyotas:

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