I Admit. My Complain To The Dealership About Very Rought Turns on My New-To-Me 2024 Sierra Turns Out Was Due To Having 4WD on When Conditions Didn't Require It

This afternoon, while scrolling through the "2019 - 2025 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra Owners" group on Facebook, I came across an insightful post by George Lenard, a new 2024 GMC Sierra owner. George’s experience is a reminder that even seasoned truck enthusiasts can encounter quirks with their vehicles, especially when transitioning to a new model. His story also provides a valuable tip for any truck owner.

George shared, “I am at the dealership now, with a new-to-me 2024 GMC Sierra. It turns out my complaint about very rough turns at or near full turning of the wheel was due to having 4WD on when conditions didn't require it. In case anyone else makes this mistake.”

This simple yet critical insight sheds light on a common mistake new truck owners might make. George deserves credit for admitting his error and generously sharing his experience to help others. It’s the kind of self-awareness and willingness to help that builds a strong sense of community among truck enthusiasts.

When Should You Use 4WD?

Understanding when to engage 4WD is crucial for maintaining the longevity of your vehicle and ensuring a smooth driving experience. Four-wheel drive is designed for specific conditions where additional traction is required, such as:

• Driving on snow, ice, or mud
• Off-roading on uneven or slippery surfaces
• Climbing steep inclines with loose gravel or sand

When driving on dry, paved roads or making tight turns, using 4WD can lead to drivetrain binding, causing the vehicle to feel jerky or rough. This issue arises because the front and rear wheels in 4WD mode rotate at the same speed, which can create resistance during sharp turns on non-slippery surfaces.

While 4WD is invaluable for tackling challenging terrains and adverse weather conditions, not every driver actually needs it. For many, an AWD system might suffice, especially in crossovers or lighter trucks. But how do you know which one is right for your needs? This in-depth article explores whether AWD in your crossover is enough or if you truly need a rugged 4x4 system—it’s a must-read for anyone weighing their options.

When to Use 2WD

In most everyday driving conditions, especially on well-maintained roads, 2WD is sufficient. It provides better fuel efficiency, smoother handling, and reduces unnecessary wear on your vehicle's drivetrain components. On the other hand, 4WD shines in challenging conditions like snow, mud, or off-road terrain. But if you're still wondering how 2WD, AWD, and 4WD compare in terms of capabilities, Consumer Reports’ car experts break it all down in this insightful guide—a must-read for truck and SUV owners alike.

How Is 4WD Different From AWD?

Four-wheel drive (4WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) often confuse new truck and SUV owners. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• 4WD: Typically found in trucks and off-road vehicles, 4WD is manually engaged and ideal for challenging terrains. It often comes with low and high-range options for greater versatility.
• AWD: AWD is automatic and continuously active, distributing power to all four wheels as needed. It’s better suited for on-road conditions where occasional slippage occurs, such as rain or light snow.

Kyle Phillips, another group member, shared a relatable story under George’s post:
“I got in my truck the other day and could not for the life of me figure out what was going on. I drove the kids to school, but couldn't turn in the U-turn that I turn in every single day. I looked at everything, then I noticed four-wheel drive lit up on the dash. Lol, the kids must have jumped up there when I ran back in for my sunglasses. I was sure puzzled for a good part of my morning.”

This humorous but all-too-common scenario underscores the importance of keeping an eye on your 4WD settings, especially if you share your truck with curious little passengers.

Richard Gonzales chimed in with a different perspective:
“My Ford Explorer and Jeep Liberty both had 4WD HI that worked fine on hard surfaces or off-road. Used to live on dirt roads, in Colorado at 9000’, and could leave those in 4WD all the time. Even on paved roads or parking lots, no issue turning tightly. My 4WD Silverado has been a bit disappointing.”

Richard’s comment highlights that not all 4WD systems perform the same across different brands and models. His Silverado’s behavior in tight turns mirrors George’s issue, which points to variances in how each manufacturer configures their drivetrain systems.

A Useful Takeaway

The moral of the story? Understanding your truck’s capabilities and when to use specific drivetrain modes can save you time, frustration, and potentially costly trips to the dealership. George's willingness to share his experience is a great reminder that even seasoned drivers can make simple mistakes when adjusting to new vehicles. It also sparks a larger question: do most drivers really need 4WD or AWD for their daily driving, or is it more about peace of mind? This fascinating report explores how many drivers in your state actually believe they need AWD or 4x4—and the results may surprise you.

George's experience highlights the importance of understanding how to best use your truck's features, like 4WD. For GMC fans, it's worth noting that modern 4WD systems are becoming increasingly versatile and intuitive. The 2023 GMC 4WD Canyon Denali Crew Cab Pickup, for example, brings some incredible features that make driving and managing 4WD easier and more enjoyable—check it out if you’re eyeing a premium midsize truck that’s built for adventure.

Have you ever experienced rough handling or drivetrain binding due to an incorrect 4WD setting? Do you have a favorite tip for fellow truck owners that could help avoid similar issues? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.