So in the Mid Atlantic region we got our first taste of snow today. While I was at work before it actually started, I was hoping someone could clear up a question I had regarding the terrain management system, particularly the snow setting. So my previous vehicle, Mazda CX5, it had an iActive system that adjusted everything automatically on a second by second basis. Now, it seems like the explorer has a similar setup but offers additional settings. My question is, is the snow mode safe to drive in when roads are not completely covered with snow? For example, many areas around where I live will be clear, than snow covered, than clear, and than slush covered as I drive around.
I can't imagine having to flip the system on and off as I drive along based on whether the road is completely covered in snow or not but I am not sure. Is that setting acting like a full time 4x4 system switch where it's better to leave the snow option for full blown snow covered roads? Or will it continue its monitoring of the road and adjust accordingly with just a little extra assistance with the snow mode turned on.