The importance of well-maintained tires cannot be overlooked when it comes to all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles. Tires are the vital connection between the vehicle and the road. As such, if there are any issues with the tires, the performance of the drivetrains of both AWD and 4WD vehicles can be negatively impacted. How? From increased wear and tear to reduced traction. Below, we’ll examine how tire issues can affect AWD and 4WD drivetrains.
How Tire Problems Impact AWD and 4WD Drivetrains
Uneven Wear
While unevenly worn tires affect all types of vehicles, this problem is significantly challenging for AWD and 4WD drivetrains. When they weary unevenly, variations in the tire diameter can occur. AWD and 4WD drivetrain systems, in particular, are highly sensitive to changes in wheel speed. To compensate for discrepancies, these drivetrain systems have to work even harder when the tires are worn. The increased amount of workload can speed up the rate of wear and tear on components of an AWD and 4WD drivetrain, which can necessitate expensive repairs.
Tire circumference plays a part in tire wear also. Larger tires travel farther in a single rotation than a smaller one causing drive train components to rotate at different speeds. In order to prevent uneven tire wear and to maintain the health and well-being of the drivetrain of your AWD or 4WD vehicle, regular tire rotations and alignments are an absolute must.
Traction Problems
AWD and 4WD drivetrains provide better grip in difficult conditions like ice, snow, mud, and rocky terrains. Newer all-wheel-drive systems and four-wheel-drive vehicle systems offer various driving modes. This allows drivers to effortlessly adapt to different road conditions and enhance overall vehicle performance.
Tires play a key role in the increased traction that AWD and 4WD vehicles provide. If the tires are worn out or they aren’t properly inflated, the ability for the drivetrain to effectively distribute power to all four wheels will become compromised. As a result, traction will reduce, making it more difficult for the vehicle to remain stable and in control.
An AWD system, combined with specially designed tires, ensures optimal grip and traction on both wet and dry surfaces, making it a secure driving experience in various weather conditions.
Checking the tread depths and making sure that the tires are properly inflated can help to prevent traction issues.
Reduced Efficiency
Tire issues can also negatively impact an AWD or 4WD vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Rolling resistance increases when the tires aren’t properly inflated. As a result, to move the vehicle, the drivetrain has to deliver more power.
The added strain on the drivetrain equated to increased fuel consumption. Checking and maintaining tire pressure will not only help to improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, but it will also help to extend the lifespan of your drivetrain.
Off-Road Capability
One of the more exciting aspects of owning an AWD or 4WD vehicle is the ability to go off-roading. That said, however, the ability to do so is diminished if the tires are compromised. If the tires are damaged, the drivetrain will not be able to evenly distribute power, which can make it more challenging for the vehicle to tackle obstacles that are commonly encountered in off-road settings.
The drive train of the off-road vehicle incorporates a viscous coupling system, ensuring power distribution between the front and rear axles for enhanced traction and stability on challenging terrains.
Visually inspect your tires regularly and if you notice any issues, have them addressed promptly to maintain the efficiency of your drivetrain.
Tire Problems: AWD and 4WD Drivetrains
The link between tires and the drivetrains of both AWD and 4WD vehicles is significant. By ensuring that your tires are well-maintained, you can increase the performance, safety, and longevity of your vehicle.
Read more: 4WD and AWD Tire Concerns
Dave & Rays Automotive Repair Shop in Omaha, NE
Our team has learned one thing: automotive problems are as varied and unique as the customers who bring them to us. Fortunately, our decades of experience in auto service and repair also mean that our skilled network of professionals is ready to accommodate an impressive scope of automotive issues. Contact us today.
Recent Articles
What To Do If Your Car Won’t Start
How Does Your Car Act When You Get Bad Gas?
How Do You Fix a Brake Light Warning?
Car Repair and Maintenance You Can DIY
Where to Start When Restoring a Classic Car