How to Use the Chevy Silverado Drive Modes and Transfer Case
The Chevrolet Silverado boasts high-level capabilities. Whether you’re towing a heavy load, heading to your favorite wilderness spot, or just driving on the streets of your neighborhood, you can count on the Silverado to get the job done.
The capabilities of the Chevy Silverado are aided by its transfer case and drive modes. Read more to learn how to use these features.
Chevy Silverado transfer case instructions
The transfer case in the Chevy Silverado enables you to manually shift between front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. With the transfer case, the Silverado can adapt to any driving situation. You have a choice of two 4WD transfer cases for the Silverado.
The single-speed transfer case has 2-high and 4-high settings. The two-speed transfer case has 2-high, neutral, 4-high, and 4-low settings.
The controls for the Silverado transfer case are located to the left of the steering wheel. Consult your Silverado owner’s manual and choose the setting that is most suitable for the driving situation.
For example, for flat-bed towing, rapidly press the 2-high button five times. This disengages the transfer case for flat-bed towing behind an RV.
Silverado drive mode instructions
With the various drive modes, you can customize the driving dynamics of the Silverado according to the driving situation, terrain conditions, and performance needs.
Drive modes include Tour, Terrain, Sport, Off-Road, Tow/Haul, and Snow. To select the desired mode, rotate the drive mode control knob on the left side of the instrument panel.
What driving conditions are the Silverado drive modes used for?
Tour mode is the default mode for the Chevy Silverado. Use it for normal, everyday driving situations. Out of all of the modes, it provides the smoothest ride.
Terrain mode is useful for driving at low speeds on challenging terrains, such as rocky surfaces and two-track and heavily-rutted roads.
Also, the terrain mode is good for pulling a boat out of the water. Another beneficial feature of Terrain mode is that it automatically applies light braking when you pull your foot off of the accelerator pedal.
If you want to enjoy the pinnacle of on-road performance for the Silverado, select the Sport drive mode. It provides a more responsive and controlled driving experience. Also, while in Sport mode, the Silverado will shift automatically.
Snow mode is terrific to have if you live in a location with messy winter weather. It provides enhanced traction during slippery conditions. Also, Snow mode adjusts the acceleration for a smoother launch.
Do you want to head off the beaten path? Choose Off-Road mode. It changes the anti-lock brake system and traction to maximize off-road performance. The Off-Road mode enhances the capabilities and provides greater control when driving on rough terrains, such as mud, gravel, and sand.
Do you need to tow a heavy trailer or a large and heavy load? Select Tow/Haul mode. It changes the transmission shift points to accommodate your trailer or load.
The Chevy Silverado provides a great deal of versatility with the various functions of the transfer case and the many drive modes. While they seem complicated at first glance, if you familiarize yourself with them, you’ll have an optimal driving experience with the Silverado.
The owner’s manual for your Silverado has detailed step-by-step instructions for both the transfer case and drive modes. Consult it so that you can confidently use these features.
