I’ve got a 2023 Outer Banks and need to drive about 40 miles on a 65 mph highway Sunday night. Roads might have ice, snow, or even black ice, so I was thinking of using GOAT slippery mode. Is it okay to keep it on for highway speeds if things get bad?
If you feel comfortable driving at 65 mph, you probably don’t need slippery mode. Just remember, 4x4 helps with getting moving, but it won’t help you stop or turn.
Reilly said:
If you feel comfortable driving at 65 mph, you probably don’t need slippery mode. Just remember, 4x4 helps with getting moving, but it won’t help you stop or turn.
Good point, thanks.
Here’s what the manual says:
SLIPPERY MODE
For bad road conditions like snow or ice. It helps when driving over slippery surfaces by reducing throttle response and adjusting shifting. It also has a rear diff lock that works below 15 mph.
Note: Don’t use slippery mode on dry pavement as it might cause vibration, drivetrain binding, and extra tire wear.
Full details: Ford Owner Manual Link
@Quin
Appreciate the detailed info!
It’s fine if you have 4A mode.
Bliss said:
It’s fine if you have 4A mode.
And if you don’t?
Bliss said:
It’s fine if you have 4A mode.
And if you don’t?
In part-time 4x4 systems, slippery mode automatically engages 4H. You’ll need to switch between 2H and 4H as road conditions change (ice patches, dry stretches, etc.).
You can leave it in slippery mode and manually switch between 2H and 4H. Just be aware that when you switch back to slippery mode after using something else, it’ll start in 4H again.
@Arlo
Can I switch while driving?
Yeah, you can switch between 2H and 4H while driving up to around 50-60 mph. Just remember, if you’re going that fast, you probably don’t need 4H.
You only need to stop and shift into neutral when switching to 4L.
@Arlo
I’m in Canada and use slippery mode often when it’s icy. The system works well—it even tells you to ease off the gas when shifting to 4H if needed.
Can’t you switch back to 2H after engaging slippery mode?
Whit said:
Can’t you switch back to 2H after engaging slippery mode?
Yeah, I did that for a bit but usually just stick to eco mode for light ice unless it’s really bad, then I switch to slippery.
I used it on the highway in Dallas tonight. There was slush near the ramps, so it helped there. Once on the freeway, which was just wet, it felt noisy and rough above 55-60 mph. Next time, I’ll turn it off once I’m on the clear part of the highway.
@Haru
Thanks for sharing your experience!
Yeah, totally.
I use 4A whenever I’m driving through snowy mountain passes.
Obviously.