4x4 or 2wd? Pro's/Cons
 

Looking at an '07 5.4 screw. I don't really tow, drive in snow, or go 4 wheeling in the mud. Besides traction, do I really need 4x4 or will 2wd with limited slip work for everyday use? I know resale of 4x4 is higher, but the added initial cost, extra weight, poor mileage should offset that. How do the 2wd's perform for everyday use? My company car '06 CV has RWD with limited slip and it gets around fine in all weather. One problem, around here, it's next to impossible to find a 2wd truck on the lot.

2wd is great when you don't need 4wd but when you do its priceless. No snow in SW NY? If you really dont need 4wd it may be a waste. I use mine all the time. You are right that there is a 1-2mpg loss with 4wd.

If you don't need the 4x4 then don't get it. But believe me, once you have it you'll never want to go back to 2wd in the snow. I get around just fine in 2wd for 90% of the time, but that other 10% the 4x4 is priceless.......

There a good reason you can't find 2wd in southwestern NY, lack of demand.

There are plenty of 2wd trucks below the snow belt.

Something to consider for when you're ready to unload it.

I heard that commercial truck drivers get hazardous pay North of Syracuse.

I totally agree with F151. I hardly ever use 4WD in my 04, since when is snows my 04 sits in the garage and I drive my work truck (94 F150 4X4). Actually I think that I have only used 4WD about 3-4 times since I have had the truck, but the times that I have used it, I needed it. I owned one 2WD truck and I will NEVER have another.

I own a 4x4 and always will if I can afford to. But... If I didn't need my 4X4 or really care either way, I wouldn't recommend it. Cost initially is enough to determine that. MPG is another factor. But the kicker I think is maintenance over the life of the truck. If you honestly don't feel the need for 4X4 or want it for any reason, why bother? This is only my opinion so take it or leave it. I have had both 4X2's and 4X4's. # of turning wheels aside, at least it's a truck and not an econobox! Good luck and post those pics when you get it! :beers:

I dont use my 4x4 that much but like everbody says when you need it, it helps a lot.

I think most people who have 4 x 4 never use it. If you don't do anything of the things you mentioned that you might need 4 wheel drive for then I think it's a no brainer that it would be stupid to get it.

I live in Florida and I see people driving 4 x 4 all the time. I think it's an ego thing or something. Most of them I ask how often they use it they reply with never. If you're not off roading or in the snow there's no need IMO.

Yes, all depends on your location
 

I'd have been stuck a number of times this winter without 4WD... but if I lived south of Virginia I probably wouldn't have it.

I am in Nashville, TN and I went with 2wd. I would have loved 4wd but we don't get snow, 2wd was cheaper, gas mileage should be better, and I figured or hoped I would have less maintenance in the future.

Well it depends on use also. I live in Dallas/Fort Worth, TX where there is absolutely no reason for a 4X4 unless you hunt,fish, or like to play. Well I'm guilty of all three. For those of you that think "hey the winter time ices over there" guess what... 4X4 doesn't help when you try to drive on ice.

jeremy, is your truck a 2wd?

Guess i'll go with 4wd and peace of mind knowing I have it if I ever get stuck. Driving the Crown Vic daily, I get used to being only a call away from help if I need it. Won't worry with a 4x4.
Thanks, for the advice.

I weighed the cost/need of a 4x4 over a two wheel drive truck and decided with my typical daily commute and how I use my truck, I didn't really want/need 4WD...

...but the times that I did need it, I really needed it. It's a toss up, although if I lived in NY, I'd seriously consider buying a 4x4.

I drove both before buying and after much consideration, opted for the 4X4. The main reason is that I drive on the beach here in coastal Texas and sometimes the sand on Padre Island can be difficult to get through. I also found I like the higher driving perch. This after driving a lowered VW for five years really makes a difference.