All-Wheel-Drive VS Four-Wheel-Drive

Some of our vehicles are equipped with what is called all-wheel drive. For other people, their cars are equipped with what is termed four-wheel drive. What is the difference between the two, and are there any pros or cons? 

The Differences 

All-wheel drive is when all four wheels are going to be driving the vehicle forward at all times, constantly.

Four-wheel drive is something you can select, you can go between two-wheel-drive and four-wheel drive. In vehicles that offer four-wheel drive, you can pull a lever, push a button, or turn a knob when you want four-wheel drive on or off, so in this case not all wheels are constantly driving like with all-wheel drive.

All-wheel drive refers to vehicles with a four-wheel-drive system that is designed to maximize road traction. Vehicles with four-wheel drive are more likely to be used for off-roading.

Pros And Cons Of Both? 

In today's climate, there are more four-wheel-drive vehicles than all-wheel-drive vehicles. Both pros are that you have maximum wheel power when driving in inclement weather like snow or rain. 

The cons to these would be that it's more expensive because there are many more components to the system. There is much more rotating weight in the design, driveshafts, and differentials. So the gas mileage will be a bit less on a four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, mainly on all-wheel drive.

Although both have different names, they essentially do the same thing on the road. A major con with all-wheel drive is the tires need to be the same size because all four wheels are driving at the same time. This means if you have 1 tire blow, you'll have to replace all four tires which is more of an expense on you when a tire pops unexpectedly. 

Find Out More About Four Wheel And All Wheel Drive 

The professionals on our team at Weber Automotive know precisely how keep your vehicle running smoothly and answer any questions you have about all-wheel and four-wheel drive. Get in touch with Weber Automotive today!