Whether you’re within the market for a car, pickup, or SUV, you probable came across this question at one point or another: What’s the main difference between 4WD and AWD? As opposed to the standard front or rear wheel drive of 2WD vehicles, both distribute power to all four wheels of a standard car. The power of the added system could be beneficial if you live in a place where you are driving in mud and snow. Numerous consumers, however, don’t know what the difference between the two is.
Although they cost more, 4WD and AWD could save you
While a automobile with either system is more expensive than a two-wheel drive automobile, you’re much less likely to find yourself stranded on the road during less-than-optimal driving conditions, whether caused by weather or environment. The choice is for the buyer: get more auto loan financing for the 4-wheel drive’s added security, or get something less. You can get help choosing between 4WD and AWD by the summary from How Stuff Works below.
Part-time 4WD – throw the switch only when necessary
In attempting to answer what’s the difference between 4WD and AWD, start with part-time 4WD. This is the essential 4WD setup offered by many autos; it involves a switch that alternates between 2WD and full-power 4WD. . Some autos in this class have a 2WD/4WD toggle, and some have added opportunities like 4WD High and 4WD Low (this is the latter of which should only be used in extreme off-road scenarios). Newer part-time 4WD vehicles allow the driver to make a shift from 2WD to 4WD High while the car is moving but must be stopped before moving from 2WD to 4WD Low. Before any shift can occur, older part-time 4WD cars have to be stopped. If you’ll only be using 4WD sometimes, then part time 4WD is the best choice for you. Frequent changes in driving conditions that would necessitate a constant switch between 2WD and 4WD are both inconvenient for the driver and add wear and tear on the drive train.
Full time 4WD is for whenever you want it to keep running
This is 4WD more advanced that will leave it on without giving strain to the auto. Available are high, low, and automatic 4WD. With most cars, shifting from high to low while in 4WD will mean the vehicle needs to be totally stopped. Drivers who tend to drive under adverse situations more often can keep away from the tedious 2WD/4WD switching and go with this full-time 4WD option.
4WD-AWD without a switch
All Wheel drive will give power to all wheels just as a four wheel drive automobile but there’s never a 2WD drive switch there. If you were on a slippery road, AWD would lock the automobiles axels and feed power to all wheels. Usually, AWD could be good for slippery road conditions but never good for off road excursions. Certain AWD autos such as the Dodge Durango and Toyota 4Runner will offer a low-gear AWD setting that allows for tougher roads. In general, AWD doesn’t add much weight to a auto and is great for all weather situations.
4WD or AWD – which is safer?
Both are designed better than 2WD but How Stuff Works says: that doesn’t mean 4WD and AWD are automatically safer. Drivers should keep in mind that while 4WD and AWD help acceleration, they don’t help with cornering and braking. When on wet or snowy roads, it doesn’t matter what kind of drive your wheels have when it comes to stopping. Having good brakes, having a fine suspension, and using the right set of ties could be more important.
Sources for the article
How Stuff Works
http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/your-ride-4wd-vs-awd-cga.htm
