4X4, 4 Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive: What’s the big deal?
Your neighbor may be bragging about his newly purchased all-wheel drive vehicle he plans to take camping, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that he’s capable of going any off road joyrides. However, a vehicle that boasts more than 2-wheel drive does in fact have better traction and power. You are far less likely to get stuck in mud or snow when your car is distributing power to all four of the wheels.
Having a vehicle with a more sophisticated drive system won’t necessarily amount to higher safety. Having four-wheel drive capabilities won’t give you any extra clearance because it’s as high off the ground as a two wheel drive vehicle. All vehicles have brakes on each of the wheels regardless, so there’s no added brake safety, or improved handling and steering. Because there are more parts involved in a four-wheel drive vehicle, the maintenance will be different from a two-wheel drive one.
Four-wheel drive vehicles have the following components that require more maintenance:
– One drive shaft for the front wheels and one for the rear. All of which need lubrication.
– 2 sets of hubs and bearings need to be cleaned and packed with grease
– Transmission that needs fluid changes
– 2 differential or gear boxes that require ongoing fluid changes
– Transfer case that requires periodic fluid change
Your typical 2-wheel drive vehicle only has one differential, one axle of hubs and bearings, and one drive shaft.
Use caution when having your vehicle serviced with discount stores because most don’t have ASE Certified technicians who understand how to properly inspect and maintain these extra moving parts.
Find the most reputable Lincoln auto repair shop to ensure that your vehicle will be serviced correctly, the first time you bring it in.