What is Ford FX4 and how is it different from 4×4?

By Product Expert | Posted in Just for Fun, Technology on Saturday, April 27th, 2019 at 3:37 pm
2019 Ford F-150 hauls a big camper through a field.

Why Some Trucks Say FX4 Instead of 4×4

You may have seen a Ford truck drive by with the characters, “FX4” emblazoned on the side. You may have wondered, “what’s the deal with that? Are they spelling out the first “four” and then just putting in a number for the last, so it comes out to something like ‘Four by 4’?” Well, that’s a good theory, but… not exactly. 

In actuality, the “F” in FX4 stands for *surprise* “Ford.” Until the early 2000s, the improved version of 4×4 offered by Ford was known as the “Off Road Package.” But in 2002, someone at Ford had a brilliant idea, and they cleverly renamed their premium 4×4 packaged to “FX4.”

A construction worker guides a large load into the bed of a red Ford truck equipped with FX4. The FX4 decal is prominently visible on the side of the vehicle. What are the special features of the FX4 package?

FX4 attunements generally include an improved suspension, skid plates, stronger Ranchero shocks, a higher ground clearance, and a limited slip rear end. Most have automatic 4×4 shifting on the steering column as well.

Have You Ever Wondered: How big are Ford pick-up trucks?

What do Ford 4×4 trucks have?

Standard 4×4 trucks, as opposed to FX4, will come with standard suspensions, lower-ground clearance, and manual shifting into four-wheel drive. This is still an excellent all-wheel drive system and will open up a bevy of vehicular performance capabilities. The FX4 package, however, is for those who want to take things to the next level.

What features are on the FX4 package for the 2019 Ford F-150?

On the 2019 Ford F-150, the FX4 Off-Road Package is optional on the XL Mid, XLT, LARIAT, King Ranch®, and Platinum 4×4 trims.

The FX4 package on the 2019 F-150 includes:

  • 31 Electronic-locking rear-axle with 5.0L V8 engine, 3.5L V6 EcoBoost® engine, or 3.0L V6 PowerStroke® Diesel engine
  • 55 Electronic-locking rear-axle with 2.7L V6 EcoBoost® engine
  • 4×4 “FX4 Off-Road” bodyside decal
  • Hill Descent Control™
  • Off-road tuned front shock absorbers
  • Skid plates: fuel tank, transfer case, and front differential
  • Floor Liners – Tray Style

And though we’ve been talking a lot about the F-150, FX4 also appears on other Ford vehicles.

Try out FX4-equipped vehicles for yourself near Brainerd MN

If you’re curious about how the performance of FX4 vehicles stack up, feel free to schedule a test drive with us at Kimber Creek Ford. We’ll be happy to work with you and help you find your perfect Ford vehicle in our extensive inventory. Thanks for reading!

You know someone that would like this...