How do I know if my Subaru is AWD?
If you own a Subaru, you may be wondering whether your vehicle is equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) technology. Knowing the drivetrain of your Subaru is important for understanding its capabilities and how to maintain it properly. In this article, we'll provide a detailed guide on how to determine if your Subaru is AWD.
Identifying AWD in Subaru Models
Subaru is known for its commitment to AWD technology, with the majority of its models featuring this drivetrain as standard. However, there are a few key ways to identify if your specific Subaru is equipped with AWD:
- Check the model name: Subaru models with "AWD" in the name, such as the Outback AWD or Ascent AWD, are equipped with all-wheel drive as standard.
- Inspect the vehicle's badging: Many Subaru models will have "AWD" or "Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive" badging on the exterior of the vehicle, indicating the presence of AWD.
- Consult the owner's manual: Your Subaru's owner's manual will provide detailed information about the vehicle's drivetrain, including whether it is equipped with AWD.
If your Subaru does not have any of these clear indicators, you can also check the vehicle's specifications online or contact your local Subaru dealer for more information.
Understanding Subaru's AWD Systems
Subaru's AWD systems are designed to provide enhanced traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions. The company's "Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive" system is a key feature of most Subaru models, which distributes power evenly to all four wheels for improved handling and control.
Subaru also offers more advanced AWD systems, such as the "X-MODE" system found in models like the Outback and Ascent. This system includes additional features like hill descent control and enhanced traction management to further improve the vehicle's off-road and inclement weather capabilities.
Maintaining Your Subaru's AWD System
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring your Subaru's AWD system continues to function optimally. This includes regularly checking the vehicle's fluid levels, inspecting the tires for even wear, and addressing any issues with the drivetrain components.
It's also important to be mindful of your driving habits when operating an AWD Subaru, as aggressive acceleration, sudden turns, and other maneuvers can put additional strain on the system. By following the manufacturer's recommendations and driving responsibly, you can help extend the life of your Subaru's AWD system.
How can you tell the difference between fwd and AWD?
AWD is all-wheel drive and FWD is front-wheel drive. The difference between the two is which sets of wheels get the power from the engine. In FWD, the engine sends power to the front axle while in AWD, the power is transmitted to both, the front, and the rear axle at the same time.
Is FWD or AWD better in snow?
On the slippery stuff, a front-driver with winter rubber is more capable than an AWD vehicle on all-seasons.
How do I check if my car is AWD?
Look for a badge
If there are no obvious badges on the rear or sides of the vehicle to denote that it's an AWD or 4WD version, it could be disguised under the automaker's naming system. For example, Hyundai notes the presence of AWD with an H-TRAC badge on models such as their Sonata, Santa Fe and Palisade.
Is AWD or 2WD better for snow?
AWD systems are especially helpful in rapidly changing conditions or when driving on a road with intermittent snow and ice.
How can you tell the difference between AWD and RWD?
That is, regardless of the type of road surface or the application in which the AWD car is being used, all four wheels are being used to generate forward momentum. A Rear-Wheel Drive car as the name describes only uses two of the four wheels to develop forward momentum.
How can you tell the difference between AWD and 2WD?
if you're able to see under the car, the AWD will have a rear differential and a driveshaft. The 2wd is front wheel drive and doesn't have a driveshaft nor does it have a rear differential.
How to activate all-wheel drive on a Subaru?
Pressing the X-Mode switch activates 5 different forms of control to limit slipping tires:
- Engine Throttle.
- Transmission.
- All Wheel Drive.
- Vehicle Dynamics Control System.
- Hill Descent Control.
Is my Subaru AWD?
Every vehicle in the Subaru lineup comes standard with Subaru AWD, except the BRZ sports car.
How do you activate AWD?
All-wheel drive is not intended to be engaged manually; as such, there is typically no need (or ability) to manually engage one's all-wheel drive system. Some vehicles do include an “AWD Lock” button. This button will lock the system into 50/50 distribution of power between the front and rear wheels.
What is Subaru AWD called?
The Symmetrical Subaru AWD system is considered full-time AWD, meaning that it is always on and consistently delivering variable power based on sensor detection.
