05 Escape 4x4 question???

Hello all, thinking about buying a 05 escape xls. The question is, do they have a lever to switch to the 4x4 mode or push button 4x4 ? I work alot and have not gotton the time to take for a test drive yet at the dealer. I know no one that knows anything about this vechile, on line it says something like smartract 4x4 at the dealer where i'll purchase. Is it like AWD or just kicks in when needed? I might get to the dealer this weekend if i'm lucky!

I have a 2005 Ford Escape XLT. The 4x4 designation is a little misleading. You run on front-wheel-drive most of the time. If sensors in the drivetrain sense that the front wheels are slipping then the vehicle puts power to the rear wheels as well. No need for shifting into 4WD. Vehicle does it automatically.

Had a buncha snow here in Denver the last month or two and this system worked flawlessly to get me around snowy and icy streets.

Warning: 4WD lets you take off faster. It DOES NOT make you stop faster. Learned that the hard way many years ago.

The one in my 2001 has just failed...or more precisely...makes a loud bearing noise. I took it to a transmission shop. It need to be replaced. No parts are available.

Cost is $1300 plus labor, another $700. OUch..

EDit:

I just took the old one (the transfer case) apart yesterday. It had metal shavings in it.