What Are the Different Types of Drivetrains?

There are four different types of drivetrains you will find and each has its pros and cons. Depending on what you’re looking for in your next car, or how you should drive your current car, the type of drivetrain can make a big difference in which car you should choose.

Cars with 4WD (or 4x4) drivetrains are similar to those with AWD. A main difference is that there is no center differential, so power is sent directly from the engine to the front and rear axles. Because of this, equal power is sent to each axle and therefore individual wheels cannot be controlled for better traction. Additionally, when driving on normal roads, these cars will operate in rear wheel drive (RWD), only turning on 4x4 when road conditions call for extra traction.

This drivetrain is best for off-roading because It handles rough terrain and mud exceptionally well. At the same time, it is also not good for fuel economy, even with the fact that most 4WD cars will operate in RWD on normal roads.

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

This drivetrain sends all power from the engine to the front wheels. Essentially, this drivetrain will pull your car down the road, so the front wheels are handling both the power and steering. Because the drivetrain is located at the front of the car with the engine, this is the lightest drivetrain option. Less parts are required to transfer power from the engine to corresponding axles and wheels.

At the same time, because all the weight is situated at the front of the car, some people find them less fun to drive. They also give better traction on snowy, icy, or wet roads than RWD, plus better fuel economy and less carbon dioxide emissions.

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

In cars with RWD, all power is sent from the engine to the rear wheels. This means the front wheels are free to only steer, while the rear wheels propel the car forward. The weight is most evenly distributed with this type of drivetrain because the two heaviest parts of the car, the engine and drivetrain, are at opposite ends.

These cars are great for balance, braking, and handling in general – plus many people believe they are more fun to drive. Because of this, most sports cars like Corvettes and Camaros are RWD. If you love the act of driving itself, rather than just getting from one place to the next, then this may be your best option. But keep in mind, these are not great cars for bad weather. This is the worst drivetrain option for conditions that require better traction.

Related: FR & FF Drivetrain Systems Explained

How Can You Tell Your Drivetrain Needs to Be Serviced?

No matter what type of drivetrain you have, there are certain symptoms to keep an eye out if a transmission repair is on the horizon.

Just like your engine and transmission, other parts of your drivetrain require oil to operate well. For example, your car’s differentials should be cleaned and the oil replaced regularly – most recommend this be done every 30,000-50,000 miles. Just like within your transmission, oil will become contaminated over time as metal parts wear down.

Your U-joints will also wear down over time and you may notice your car vibrating at higher speeds.

A few other symptoms to keep an eye out for include clunking noises, increasing vibration during acceleration, strong vibration from the floorboards, resistance around turns, speaking or rattling, and visible play or wear of the U-joints.

Related: What type of drivetrain is best for winter?

Related: What’s the difference between drivetrains?