Have you ever wondered what FWD, RWD, or AWD means in the description and specs of a vehicle? It could be found in the description of a used car or a dealership spec list. Whatever the case may be, we will give you an answer for all three below.
FWD - Front Wheel Drive
The most commonly seen out of the three is FWD, meaning front-wheel drive. Now you might ask, " What is front-wheel drive" and we will explain. This means that the engine and transmission provide power to the two front wheels. Usually, this is done to make the car safer and easier to drive. Turning the steering wheel feels more responsive and instant, making it perfect for everyday driving.
RWD - Rear Wheel Drive
On the opposite side, RWD means rear-wheel drive. The engine and transmission power the drive shaft, which connects to the differential and wheels. This way, the car is more stable in corners and does not lose traction. RWD is most common in sports cars, but it's rare. It also makes the car more balanced because of the components needed in the back and undercarriage. One, if not the biggest manufacturer of rear-wheel drive cars, is the German-made BMW.
AWD - All-Wheel Drive
The second most popular is AWD - all-wheel drive or 4x4. All four wheels are powered by the engine and transmission - only happening if the AWD system detects traction loss in the front wheels. There are also different modes of AWD depending on the vehicle. Some have options for 40% power to the rear and 60% to the front or 30% to the front and 70% to the back. Different roads require more power to the back or front, hence this option exists.
FWD, RWD, and AWD Vehicle Repairs!
Looking for repairs on your vehicle's powering system or suspension? Look no further than here at Advanced Auto Care Center Florida. We offer services for FWD, RWD, and AWD systems, engine maintenance, brake repairs, and more! Stop by, and we will inspect your vehicle if you have any doubts or worries.