What's The difference Between 4WD And AWD?

Whether you are within the market for a vehicle, SUV or pickup, you've likely come across this question at one point or an additional: What's the difference between 4WD and AWD? Both will distribute power to all four wheels within the car unlike 2WD autos that only have front or rear wheel drive. The power of the added system might be beneficial if you live in a place where you are driving in mud and snow. However, you will find nevertheless numerous people who don’t have a clue what the main difference between the two is.

You could be saved by 4WD and AWD although it costs more

When a vehicle with either of the two systems is a lot more expensive than a two-wheel drive vehicle, you're less likely to find yourself stranded on the road during less-than-optimal driving conditions, whether caused by weather or environment. Get more automobile financing for a safer 4-wheel drive care or get something less: the choice is the buyer’s. How Stuff Works summary following should help you between 4WD or AWD.

Throw the switch only when necessary – Party-time 4WD

We will start with part time 4WD in answering the main difference between 4WD and AWD. This is the basic 4WD setup offered by many cars; it includes a switch that alternates between 2WD and full-power 4WD. As long as the 4WD setting is avoided on dry pavement, excessive mechanical wear can be avoided. Some cars 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 when the automobile is moving but must be stopped before moving from 2WD to 4WD Low. Older part time 4WD cars needed to be stopped before any shift can happen. Part time 4WD is for you if you only need 4WD once in a while. Frequent changes within the driving conditions that would mean a constant switch between 2WD and 4WD are both inconvenient for the driver and add a lot of wear and tear on the drive train.

When you want to keep it running – full time 4WD

This is 4WD more advanced that will leave it on without giving strain to the auto. High and Low settings are accessible, also as an automatic 4WD. Most autos require you to be totally stopped before it will shift from low to high and back. Drivers who tend to drive under adverse situations a lot more often can keep away from the tedious 2WD/4WD switching and go with this full-time 4WD option.

AWD - 4WD without the switch

All wheel drive gives power to all wheels just like four wheel drive but doesn’t have a 2WD switch usually. AWD locks the automobiles axles and automatically feeds power to all wheels on slippery roads. Typically, AWD will be good for slippery road conditions but never good for off road excursions. Certain AWD automobiles like the Dodge Durango and Toyota 4Runner do offer a low-gear AWD setting that allows for tougher roads, however. Much weight isn’t added to the car by AWD typically and is good for all weather.

Which is safer - 4WD or AWD?

Although both maximize traction over a 2WD car, 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 do not help with cornering and braking. When it comes to stopping on snowy roads, it doesn’t matter what kind of wheel drive your automobile has. Using the right set of tires, having good brakes and a fine suspension are more essential in that case.

Resources

How Stuff Works

http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/your-ride-4wd-vs-awd-cga.htm