Many drivers think their 4WD or AWD vehicle is the primary factor behind their winter commute safety.
It’s true that different drivetrains (including FWD and RWD) perform differently in winter. They’re the system that accelerates your vehicle, helping you get unstuck from – say – a snowbank!
But your drive train does not provide traction or stopping power. That comes from your winter tires.
Regardless of what drivetrain your vehicle has, you should equip your vehicle with winter tires to help you control your vehicle in winter conditions.
SHOP WINTER TIRESARE FRONT-WHEEL DRIVE CARS GOOD IN SNOW?
Yes, FWD vehicles can be quite good in snow, especially when compared to rear-wheel drive vehicles. This is for a few reasons:
FWD can “pull” your vehicle out of an obstacle such a snowbank or rut.
Increased weight over the front two tires gives all traction power to the front, which can more easily overcome snow.
FWD typically experiences an underseer skid, which is easier to control.
The two types of skid are:
Understeering: When your front end loses grip and your vehicle can’t go in the direction you intend. It can feel like you’re going straight (but your not).
Oversteering: Occurs when your vehicle’s backend loses grip and causes your vehicle to spin out; called “fishtailing”. Often experienced by rear-wheel drive vehicles. It feels like your vehicle is spinning.
Front-wheel drive vehicles may not perform as well as other drivetrains while cornering in snow. This is because your tire’s available traction may become overwhelmed since the same axle is used for acceleration and steering.
As a skilled, in-the-know driver, you can mitigate these risks by applying even, consistent pressure to the throttle and avoiding harsh braking. Investing in a set of winter tires and practicing good winter driving skills will go a long way to keep you safe.
IS REAR-WHEEL DRIVE GOOD FOR SNOW?
No, generally speaking, rear-wheel drive (RWD) is not the best drivetrain for snow. If you live in a winter region, RWD vehicles may not be the best option for you.
RWD is popular on peppy vehicles like sports cars and muscle cars. You may also see it on some SUVs and pickups. This is because RWD gives an even weight distribution and therefore better handling in normal conditions.
But RWD vehicles aren’t great for snow because they have difficulty accelerating on slick surfaces. They have a greater possibility for losing control of the backend. Many sports cars are stabled for winter.
Pro tip for your RWD vehicle: try adding weight in the trunk to help increase traction.
If you have a RWD vehicle that you don’t want to leave locked throughout the cold weather, we’d suggest a set of winter tires. They’ll offer a huge boost in traction and handling in winter and snowy conditions. We still recommend being gentle on that throttle!
IS ALL-WHEEL DRIVE GOOD IN SNOW?
Answer: Yes, all-wheel drive, or AWD, is generally very good in the snow. But not for the reason you’re thinking.
What does an AWD drive train do?
Automatically distributes the correct degree of power required to specific vehicles
AWD is always enabled (unlike 4WD) for consistent performance
Allow for adaptable response to varying conditions
Offers best performance for paved winter or wet roads
Doesn’t perform as well in deep snow, rough terrain, or unpaved surfaces
There’s a misconception that all-wheel drive (AWD) — and four-wheel drive (4WD) for that matter — vehicles are inherently safer in winter.
But this isn’t quite true. Stopping is the most important aspect to avoiding collisions and spin outs. Control is the second (i.e. handling).
Your drivetrain assists in acceleration, not braking or handling. What stops your vehicle when you need it to is you, your brakes, and your tires. Besides the level of torque applied, there’s no real difference between a non-AWD and AWD vehicle when it comes to cornering and braking.
However, AWD vehicles do have the ability to adapt to different traction needs automatically. And since it is always enabled, it offers consistent performance.
For most people living in a developed area, a set of winter tires equipped to their AWD vehicle is the best set up possible.
DOES FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE HELP IN SNOW?
Answer: sometimes. If you live in a region with deep snow, severe weather, and roads that are frequently unplowed, 4WD is the way to go.
What does 4WD do?
Delivers equal power to all four wheels
Ideal for rough terrain
Stronger and tougher than AWD
Better for getting out of ditches and stuck situations
Best for deep snow and extreme conditions
Best for unploughed or undeveloped areas
Not as good as AWD on paved winter roads
Drivers living in rural communities who tackle rough terrain can benefit from equipping their 4WD vehicle with winter tires, giving them the best traction and acceleration possible.
Something to note is that 4WD systems are often “part time,” meaning that they have to be enabled as opposed to AWD, which is constant.
The best drivetrain is one that works best for your region and the type of driving you do. When it comes to driving in snow, the best way to safely manage winter weather is utilizing winter tires to get the best traction possible.
Ready to roll?
Discount Tire can’t do too much about your drivetrain, but we can definitely advise you on the best tires for winter.
Do you already have a set of winter tires that need installation? We offer winter/snow tire changeover and installation services!
Are tire chains or studded tires a good option for you? Check out our blog about studded tires vs tire chains to find out!
If you’re still not sure, give us a ring or drop in and we’ll help you get the best option possible for you and your vehicle.
Walk-ins are always welcome but we encourage you to buy and make your appointment online first. Buy and book online to save some time!
For more information on this and other tire and wheel services, check out our YouTube Channel or reach out to us on X, Facebook and Instagram.