If you are an off-road enthusiast, watching a truck or SUV crawl a steep hill is always amazing to see. However, with the current trend, most SUVs come with either AWD or 4WD system, making it difficult to choose between the two. Since all drivetrains power all wheels, it is always difficult for most people to understand the differences.
An all-wheel drive system is a complicated drivetrain that uses a computerized system to determine each wheel's power. If a tire fails to acquire traction on a harsh road surface, the AWD system sensors notice and send power to the wheels with an ideal grip. This AWD system is perfect for on-road and daily-commuting cars.
When shopping for vehicles with an AWD drivetrain, you will notice two types of AWD setups; part-time and full-time. Full-time drivetrain powers all four wheels endlessly. Buying a car with a part-time AWD system means your new vehicle handles like a two-drive car until the sensors detect slipper or harsh conditions.
Cars come with a rear and front differential that allows the wheels to turn at different rates. In a traditional 4WD system, the rear and front differentials lock together, ensuring that the reels spin at the same speed. Thus, when you drive an off-road vehicle on rough terrain, one tire can rotate while the other grips the ground since all tires receive the same amount of power.
Remember, you should never turn on your 4WD system if you are riding on a smooth surface as it can damage the drivetrain. You can quickly turn the system on and off using a push-button, lever, or knob. Always select low-range gear if your 4WD system has a high and low-range option to navigate through rocks slowly. You should always opt for high-range gear if you are driving in slippery conditions.
If you want to understand the differences between AWD and 4WD systems, don't hesitate to contact our Joy Myers Mazda dealership. We are ready to help you find an SUV, car, or truck that suits your needs and preferences.
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