What 4x4 Systems Does the Jeep Wrangler Use?
At the heart of the Wrangler's capability are three Jeep uses three 4x4 systems to drive the Wrangler, each one earning Jeep's coveted Trail Rated badge. Standard equipment for most Wrangler trims is Command-Trac 4x4. Command-Trac is a part-time 4x4 system with a two-speed transfer case. This allows drivers to seamlessly shift from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive and back at speeds up to 55 MPH. In four-wheel drive, you can choose between 4-High and 4-Low depending on the speed at which you are driving. For example, on-road driving in inclement weather calls for 4-High, while off-roading at low speeds calls for 4-Low. Meanwhile, Selec-Trac is a full-time automatic 4x4 system that does the job of Command-Trac with minimal driver input. Finally, Rock-Trac is exclusive to the Rubicon trim. It is built for serious off-roading, featuring a 4:1 gear ratio in 4-Low mode. This means for every four rotations of the transmission output shaft, the wheels will turn once, applying more torque at lower crawling speeds.
What is the Purpose of a Differential?
Another important feature that makes the Wrangler so capable is its differentials. A car's differentials send power to the wheels. With the Wrangler having a 4x4 system, it features both a front and rear differential. The differentials are also responsible for distributing the torque to where it should go. The Wrangler's differentials allow the wheels to spin at different speeds to maximize traction. For example, if the right front tire is slipping but the left front tire has firm traction, the front differential will increase the torque to the left tire while decreasing the torque to the right tire. The Wrangler Rubicon comes with electronic locking front and rear differentials. This allows the driver to lock either the rear or both front and rear differentials. With the differentials locked, equal power is sent to either both rear wheels or all four wheels, moving the wheels at the same speed. This helps keep up momentum while navigating tough terrain.
Other Off-Roading Features for the 2024 Wrangler
The Wrangler didn't gain legendary status from its drivetrain alone, it also offers a huge range of other off-roading technologies and features. For example, the Wrangler Rubicon's electronic sway bar disconnect feature allows drivers to unlink the front sway bar at the push of a button. The benefit of doing so is to allow the front wheels to rise and drop further, maintaining contact with the trail surface no matter how uneven the terrain gets. This can be engaged at speeds lower than 18 MPH while in 4-Low mode. The Wrangler also uses a body-on-frame design for greater durability, flexibility, and strength. It also features high-strength steel underbody skid plates. These skid plates are strategically placed to protect vital components like the fuel tank, oil pan, and differentials while traversing jagged terrain. Meanwhile, available rock rails add further protection while off-roading.
Get an Off-Road-Ready Wrangler in Culpeper, VA
Stories of the Jeep Wrangler's off-road prowess have been echoed around the world, solidifying its position as a legendary off-roading SUV. If you're looking to hit the trails with a legendary off-roader, be sure to check out the 2024 Jeep Wrangler inventory here at Chrysler of Culpeper! We also invite you to use the contact form below this page to reach our sales team with any questions or to schedule a test drive at our dealership. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
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