4WD vs AWD: An Easy Explaination
- Deon Llewellyn
- Oct 24, 2016
- 2 min read
Winter is right around the corner and this rainy day (thanks to Hurricane Matthew), has given me a great blog idea with some downtime to write it! This blog is about the differences in 4WD and AWD systems. Most people believe that it is the same system, which I guess does have SOME truth to it, but know the differences and benefits of each will help you decide which system is best for you!
4WD and AWD systems are both useful when road conditions are not dry and there is a greater chance for the loss of traction. This is really the ONLY similarity in the two systems, simply due to how and when they work. Let's dive into the differences in each system.
4WD
4WD or 4-wheel drive is the older of the two systems, and as it's name implies, it directs the driving force in the vehicle to all four wheels at the same time. This, however, does NOT mean that 4WD systems are always on. 4WD systems use a transfer case for manual control of the 4WD feature. When not in use, the vehicle sends power to the rear wheels for maximum fuel efficiency. After the driver shifts the transmission into 4WD via shift knob or rotary dial, the
vehicle begins driving the vehicle with all 4 wheels to ensure maximum traction. 4WD systems are best used off-road when conditions are more demanding when speeds are slower than normal (ie. rock-climbing, deep snow, sand, or mud ) and are usually reserved for trucks and SUVs.
AWD
AWD or all-wheel drive is the newer of the two systems. This system, unlike 4WD, IS always on and does not need to be manually activated by the driver. Instead of a transfer case, AWD systems use an internal CPU to determine when traction is being lost due to road conditions.
This CPU automatically engages the AWD feature when it recognizes that loss of traction. While not engaged, AWD works like 4WD by only using either the rear or front wheels for fuel efficiency and tire life. AWD systems are best used on-road when conditions are less than ideal but still drive-able at close to normal speeds (ie. light snow and ice, or on slippery, wet roads) and is usually reserved for cars and small crossover SUVs.
Knowing these basic principles of how 4WD and AWD systems work, and how to use them in different conditions will give you a better idea as to which vehicle types could alleviate your winter weather woes! You don't necessarily NEED to have 4WD to move around in winter weather you could do just as good in the proper AWD vehicle and save on costs a little as well.
If you or anyone you know is in the market for a new vehicle to get them through this winter, drop me a line. I know of a great guy at a great dealership! ")
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