What are the Pros and Cons of AWD?

Nov 9, 2020

2020 Jeep Cherokee blue driving through sand at beach

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is a bit misunderstood. Some people think it gives them all the power they need to get out over any terrain and out of any kind of problem, but that is not true. A well-designed AWD system simply enough sends torque to all four wheels, allowing the vehicle to get traction when it otherwise wouldn’t. That being said, there are drawbacks to AWD vehicles, and numerous advantages, so read more of this post to learn about the pros and cons of AWD.

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What are the Pros of AWD?

Snow/Ice/Sand/Mud

AWD is fantastic for winter driving. Since heavy snowfall and ice aren’t as common of issues here in Florida as they are in other parts of the Country, AWD is also useful for driving in sand, on slick or oily roads, or anywhere else where a wheel or two might just start spinning because it can’t get traction.

Advanced AWD Systems

Highly advanced AWD systems will use computers to automatically adjust how much torque needs to go to each wheel so the right wheels get enough traction to get you over rocks or through mud and sand. Advanced systems will also turn torque down for wheels that slip. Otherwise, wheels that spin freely draw power away from the wheels that need it most.

What are the Cons of AWD?

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Reduced Fuel Efficiency

If you compare to vehicles that are otherwise identical except for their drive type, you will notice that there is a correlation between drive type and fuel economy. AWD systems require a bit more fuel to operate, so you might find yourself filling up a little more frequently. Even part-time AWD drive systems that basically operate as Front-Wheel Drive unless the system detects a need for AWD still use up more fuel overall.

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Overconfidence

Another con comes in the form of driver over-confidence. Drivers who know they have a capable AWD system might find themselves stuck in situations they underestimate or may find they don’t know how to drive in low-traction situations as well as they thought. Human error may be the biggest issue with AWD, so if you are planning to get a vehicle with AWD, don’t do it because you think it will make your vehicle unstoppable. The main goal of AWD is to help drivers out of tough situations, not let them get through anything.