[2KIRKS]

We got our first decent snow of the year last night... so I finally had the chance to try out the 4WD system on the Element - and I have a couple questions.

I drove thru some unplowed parking lots in order to get the rear wheels to kick in and when the orange traction light came on it almost seemed as if I lost power/acceleration. Is that what is supposed to happen? Was I actually losing acceleration or did it simply feel that way because of the 4WD kicking in?

Thanks for your assistance!

 

[slimerdogs]

That is your traction control system kicking in and thats normal. Try turning the traction control off and have some fun. The engine should rev up a lot more with it off.

 

[2KIRKS]

So there's a difference between the 4WD system and the traction control system? I always thought they were one in the same...?

How does the 4WD system work then? If there's no on/off switch, how do you know when it's activated?

 

[GaryS]

If there's no on/off switch, how do you know when it's activated?

When you don't get stuck.:roll:

 

[2KIRKS]

Another question...

Does the Element really have 4WD or is it just AWD with a fancy emblem?

 

[IRV]

Go to the blue border at the top of this page. Click on FAQ/ How To's. There is a line explaining the 4WD system is there.

Edit: Or here.http://www.skidmore.edu/~pdwyer/e/files/rtawd.pdf

http://automobiles.honda.com/element/features.aspx?Feature=4wd

 

[slimerdogs]

Like Irv said there is a few threads on how the 4X4 system works and its a really simple system but it works great using 2 hydraulic pumps and a clutch system. The traction control senses a wheel spin and reduces the throttle to keep that from happening.

 

[Island E]

The traction control senses a wheel spin and reduces the throttle to keep that from happening.

It's like ABS for the throttle side of the house.

 

[BobW]

We get the occasional wet heavy snow here in the Vancouver area....the 4WD Element is fabulous, and even better with the traction control on my 07....my previous 03 E didn't have the that feature and on slippery surfaces the rear end would sometimes take a hike.....namely towards the ditch and caused a few heart throbs while I steered out of the wheel spin.
Generally a very good 4WD system

 

[slimerdogs]

It's like ABS for the throttle side of the house.

True. I would call it a anti gas system. Thats what I need for myself.:grin::grin: