Most people have heard the terms “two-wheel drive,” “four-wheel drive,” and “all-wheel drive” when shopping for vehicles, but the average driver probably doesn’t know exactly the differences between each of these types of drive. It’s important to learn more about the mechanical differences between each of them, though, because each type of vehicle will need to be driven and serviced differently. By learning more about the terms, you can figure out which one is best for your specific situation if you are buying a vehicle and also learn more about the unique service needs for each type of car or truck.
Two-Wheel Drive
Two-wheel drive vehicles only use two wheels at a time to power your vehicle. This varies from vehicle to vehicle, so depending on how your car or truck is designed, it will be front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. Two-wheel drive vehicles are the most common standard passenger vehicle and are adaptable for day-to-day driving for the majority of drivers.
Four-Wheel Drive
Four-wheel drive vehicles are equipped to drive through much more difficult terrain and conditions. These vehicles combine the features of two-wheel drive, with the front and back pairs of wheels both providing driving power. This is extremely useful for getting traction in slick or wet conditions, like mud, ice or snow. Most of the time, four-wheel drive can also be turned on and off when you need it, allowing you to save on gas mileage and engaging the extra power only when conditions demand.
All-Wheel Drive
Lastly, all-wheel drive vehicles have the ability to use all four wheels, but independently. This means that the vehicle uses electronic sensors to figure out which of the wheels need to be engaged while driving in tough conditions, applying more drive to individual wheels to account for slipping or traction loss. It’s a more sophisticated system and provides more control of your vehicle in all different kinds of weather and terrain.
Regardless of which type of drive system you have, it’s important for you to service your transmission regularly and seek the necessary repairs that you need to have done to keep your vehicle running safely. AV Bumper to Bumper can answer any questions you have about your specific drive system and complete transmission services and repairs to take care of any equipment problem or failure with your vehicle.
Call us at 661-949-1999 today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about the full range of auto maintenance and services we can provide for you.
