Auto 4 whl drive mode. Does it make mileage worse than just leaving it on 2 whl drive

[Mr. Northface]

Weird question, but if you leave your knob on the automatic setting for 4 wheel drive, does that decrease your mileage at all? Like creating a slight drag on the drivetrain until it kicks into 4x4 mode & then starts sipping even more fuel?

Would it just be better to leave it in 2 wheel drive until you know it is going to rain or something?



Goofy thing to ask....but it crossed my mind. Always looking to increase my mileage.



Any info is always appreciated.

[mason_RsX]

I think it does because the Trailblazer (or at least the Blazer) in auto is pretty 4wd happy...small slips cause it to qiuckly shift to 4wd...I would say if you don't understand 4wd then just put it into auto. But if you know the system then keep it in 2 and put it on when you need it

[Bullethole]

My owner's manual says you will notice a slight decrease in gas mileage in 4wd auto. I don't use mine until the road gets wet or worse.

[trailsharky]

I only use mine when I know roads are bad and might have black ice or other slipery spots that look fine until you hit them
but part of that is because I had a front wheel drive for so long I've missed being able to purposely fishtail in parking lots and other empty spaces in winter

[Mr. Northface]

Just what I had thought, but it's always good for someone else to chime in & confirm or deny what your thinking.

Thank you all!