Wondering How to Take Care of 4WD Systems?
24
Feb,
2022
When looking at the string of vehicles rolling down the road, you will see that there are now many 4-wheel drive trucks, jeeps, and SUV's. They have become very popular among drivers over the last few years, as they have some practical advantages when needing a little more traction and power for certain terrain. However, 4WD systems require a little different maintenance than all-wheel-drive vehicles.
Here are some things you should know about your 4WD vehicle as well as some of the things that your mechanic should check on a regular basis:
- Benefits of 4WD Vehicles. 4WD is ideal for driving in situations when there is low to very little traction, such as on slippery roads, loose dirt, or off-road. Some of the newer 4WD systems automatically slip into 4-wheel drive when one or more of the wheels start slipping. Other vehicles have the option of turning the 4-wheel drive on and off, which actually helps improve fuel economy.
- 4WD vs. All-Wheel. There is a difference between 4-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles. 4WD systems have a transfer case. All-wheel drive applies to drive train systems that include a differential between the front and rear driveshafts, equipped with an anti-slip technology that works well for any surface.
So how do you take care of 4WD systems? Like any other system, it needs to be regularly maintained to keep it working properly. Watch for leaks and any irregular sounds or malfunctions. Fluids should be drained and replaced regularly to keep everything running smoothly. Differentials and transfer cases have gear oil in them which should be changed at the right interval to make sure it will last for years.
Even though 4WD systems are made to handle a lot of stress, certain situations on a consistent basis could result in damage. Here are some typical situations that add stress to 4WD systems:
- Heavy loads
- Hard driving
- Extra parts
- Neglect
Looking for quality 4WD repairs? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Puleo’s Auto Clinic for more information about 4WD systems and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Washington, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
When looking at the string of vehicles rolling down the road, you will see that there are now many 4-wheel drive trucks, jeeps, and SUV's. They have become very popular among drivers over the last few years, as they have some practical advantages when needing a little more traction and power for certain terrain. However, 4WD systems require a little different maintenance than all-wheel-drive vehicles.
Here are some things you should know about your 4WD vehicle as well as some of the things that your mechanic should check on a regular basis:
- Benefits of 4WD Vehicles. 4WD is ideal for driving in situations when there is low to very little traction, such as on slippery roads, loose dirt, or off-road. Some of the newer 4WD systems automatically slip into 4-wheel drive when one or more of the wheels start slipping. Other vehicles have the option of turning the 4-wheel drive on and off, which actually helps improve fuel economy.
- 4WD vs. All-Wheel. There is a difference between 4-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles. 4WD systems have a transfer case. All-wheel drive applies to drive train systems that include a differential between the front and rear driveshafts, equipped with an anti-slip technology that works well for any surface.
So how do you take care of 4WD systems? Like any other system, it needs to be regularly maintained to keep it working properly. Watch for leaks and any irregular sounds or malfunctions. Fluids should be drained and replaced regularly to keep everything running smoothly. Differentials and transfer cases have gear oil in them which should be changed at the right interval to make sure it will last for years.
Even though 4WD systems are made to handle a lot of stress, certain situations on a consistent basis could result in damage. Here are some typical situations that add stress to 4WD systems:
- Heavy loads
- Hard driving
- Extra parts
- Neglect
Looking for quality 4WD repairs? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Puleo’s Auto Clinic for more information about 4WD systems and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Washington, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
John Puleo
John Puleo 