The electronic locking differential on Ford F-150 is a device housed in the rear axle, and when activated, allows both wheels on a specific axle to turn at the same speed.
The electronic locking differential can provide additional traction should your vehicle become stuck. You can activate the differential electronically and shift it on the fly within the operating speed range which is 20 mph (30 km/h). The electronic differential will disengage automatically when the vehicle speed exceeds 25 mph (41 km/h) and it will reengage when the vehicle speed goes below 20 mph (30 km/h). It will also engage based on certain selected drive modes.
The electronic locking differential is for use in mud, rocks, sand, or any off-road condition where you need maximum traction.
To activate electronic locking differential, press its button in the center of the drive mode rotary switch.
Note: The electronic locking differential can activate or deactivate automatically based on speed, four-wheel drive mode, and drive mode selection.
Caution
- The electronic locking differential is for off-road use only and is not for use on dry pavement. Using the electronic locking differential on dry pavement will result in increased tire wear, noise and vibration.
- The electronic locking differential may not engage if you press your accelerator pedal during an engagement attempt. A message could display in the instrument display guiding you to release the accelerator pedal.
- If the electronic locking differential has difficulty disengaging, release the accelerator pedal and turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction while rolling
Which F-150 models have ELD?
Electronic Locking Differential is a part of FX4 Off-Road Package. All trims equipped with 4×4 has ELD.
My 2019 F150 3.5L 4wd with max tow package spun the driver’s side wheels only when operating in 4wd low in soft turf. I was told moments ago that the system is operating normally by the local ford dealer.
He claimed that the only way to get more wheels turning is to lock the rear differential which my truck has that feature. He claims this tactic will then cause 3 wheels to turn rather than all 4.
Do you find this claim accurate? I was expecting that when shifting into 4 wd low that all wheels would lock and turn.
Your local Ford dealer is right. F-150 only comes with rear diff lock. To lock the front wheels, you need a front diff lock which F-150 doesn’t have. Engine power also goes to both front wheels when 4×4 is engaged, they just won’t be locked together, so one wheel can slip while the other one loses power on slippery surfaces.
He’s right guys
Pretty much no pickup except for a couple of dedicated off road designs offer a locking front axle i.e. ram power wagon, and even then the option is in the thousands of dollars. That said, you have power to all four wheels until one wheel slips so if you can use a light touch when driving on soft turf it will keep a better grip.