2002 Mazda Tribute Owner's Manual - Page 148

Driving FOUR WHEEL DRIVE (4X4) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) 4x4 system general information WARNING: For important information regarding safe operation of this type of vehicle, see Preparing to drive your vehicle in this chapter. Your vehicle is equipped with a 4x4 system. This 4x4 system can use all four wheels to power the vehicle. This helps increase traction, enabling you to drive your vehicle over terrain and road conditions not normally traveled by two-wheel drive vehicles. Power is always supplied to the front wheels and to the rear wheels through the transaxle and Rotary Blade Coupling (RBC) unit that allows you to select a four-wheel drive mode best suited for your current driving conditions. For the lubricant specification and refill capacity of the Power Take-Off Unit and rear axle refer to the Maintenance and specifications chapter. Operating modes of the 4x4 system The 4x4 system functions in two modes: • The 4x4 AUTO mode provides four-wheel drive with full power LOCK delivered to the front axle at all times, and to the rear axle as required for increased traction. This is appropriate for normal on-road operating conditions, such as dry road surfaces, wet pavement, snow and gravel. • The 4x4 ON mode provides four-wheel drive with full power LOCK to both axles at all times. It is only intended for severe or off-road driving conditions, such as deep snow and ice (where no dry or wet pavement remains uncovered) and shallow sand or mud. • The vehicle should not be operated in the 4x4 ON mode on dry or merely wet pavement. Doing so will produce excessive noise, increase tire wear and may damage driveline components. The 4x4 ON mode is intended for use only on consistently slippery or loose surfaces. 148