TOWING & SPECIFICATIONS
2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD Modes & Troubleshooting
On equipped trucks, 2HI, 4HI, 4LO and AUTO selections have different operating conditions and are not interchangeable.
Confirm the engine, trim, drivetrain, market and installed equipment before using a part number, capacity or repair procedure.
What the 2015 Silverado 4WD settings mean
Mode availability depends on the installed transfer case. This is a reading guide, not a reproduction of the actual dashboard selector.
Normal on-road mode for conditions with ordinary traction.
On trucks equipped with AUTO, the system can send torque to the front axle when needed; check the manual for intended conditions.
For additional traction on loose or slippery surfaces, following the transfer-case guidance.
Low-range gearing for slow, difficult conditions. Use the exact required shift procedure; do not engage casually on the move.
Using the selector
The exact modes depend on the transfer case installed. Four-wheel-drive high is intended for traction situations described in the manual; low range uses a specific shift procedure with vehicle speed and transmission conditions. Do not operate low range on dry pavement as if it were an ordinary road gear.
If four-wheel drive will not engage
Record selector messages and whether the front axle or transfer case is responding. Possible issues include a low battery, actuator, switch, wiring, encoder motor or mechanical fault. Use the transfer-case identification and GM diagnostics before buying parts.
- Consult the exact 4LO shift procedure.
- Avoid binding the driveline on high-traction pavement.
- Investigate 4WD warning messages rather than forcing repeated shifts.
Determine whether AUTO 4WD is fitted
Not every Silverado has the same selector and transfer case. Identify the modes fitted to your truck, then follow the manual’s specified shifting conditions for 4HI and 4LO. Binding or tire scrub on dry pavement can be normal for a locked 4WD mode but is not a reason to ignore grinding, slipping or warning messages.
Troubleshooting a failed shift
Note whether the dash indicator flashes, whether an actuator moves and whether the problem began after a low-battery event or fluid leak. Scan the transfer-case control module, check power and grounds, and inspect the correct transfer-case fluid level and condition. Avoid repeatedly forcing the selector when engagement is incomplete.
Where the 4WD control is located
On equipped 2015 Silverado 1500 trucks, Chevrolet places the rotary four-wheel-drive selector to the left of the steering column, near the exterior-light controls. Some trucks have different mode choices; the dashboard control itself is the best way to see whether AUTO is available. The 2015 Chevrolet Getting to Know guide identifies the control in its labelled instrument-panel photograph.
Use the correct model-year manual and current service information. Stop if instructions or safety precautions are unclear, and use a qualified technician for work you cannot verify.
References and further reading
This independent guide is not endorsed by the vehicle manufacturer. Let us know if you spot an error.