Vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD System) have become highly popular in everyday driving.
Most car manufacturers now offer a variety of AWD and 4×4 options to choose from. However, these two types of drive systems are designed for different purposes. AWD (All Wheel Drive) is specifically created to make everyday road driving safer, providing stability for users by adapting to all road conditions, whether snowy, icy, or simply wet.
How does the AWD System work?
In most cases, electronics regulate the precise operation of these systems, and manufacturers often use the term “intelligent all-wheel drive” as an attractive marketing point. While this sounds enticing, it’s essential to remember that these systems only work effectively when their mechanical parts are in good working condition—primarily the transfer case and the differentials.
All AWD systems are based on the same structure, balancing torque distribution between the front and rear axles and between the wheels to improve stability, cornering, and acceleration. Some manufacturers have raised the bar so high that the system can adapt to the driver’s style, making fine adjustments backed by precise calculations to enhance traction. A well-functioning Haldex or Torsen differential, as well as the transfer case, are key contributors to the overall performance of AWD System.
How are work machines different?
On the other hand, 4WD is designed for off-road enthusiasts and vehicles that operate on difficult terrain, like mud or rocky paths, often for work purposes. This system emphasizes mechanical components over electronics, featuring tougher parts and larger key components and subsystems. Both drive systems require maintenance; nothing functions well in the long run without proper lubrication. Therefore, regular oil changes in the transfer case and differentials are the most basic service requirement. These should be done on time, though manufacturers often “forget to inform” consumers (and even service centers) about this straightforward but crucial maintenance, claiming that oil changes aren’t necessary for these components. Ignoring this, however, leads to a gradual decline in the performance of your vehicle’s traction and safety features, eventually leaving your once-stable and high-traction vehicle headed for the tow truck.