How does the Chevy Traverse AWD system work?
The Traverse’s all‑wheel-drive system is an on-demand setup that defaults to front‑wheel drive and automatically engages the rear wheels through an electronically controlled clutch when extra traction is needed. It requires no driver input and is designed to improve grip and stability on slick roads; there is no manual low-range or lock feature for the rear axle.
This article explains how the system distributes power, what components it uses, and how it behaves in everyday driving conditions.
Overview of how power is distributed
The following points describe the automatic process that governs torque transfer between the front and rear wheels.
- The system starts in primarily front‑wheel drive. An electronically controlled clutch in the rear axle engages to send torque to the rear wheels when traction falls short on the front axle.
- Torque distribution is continuously adjusted rather than fixed; there is no driver‑selected “4x4 lock.” The system ramps torque to the rear as needed to maintain grip.
- When tires regain traction or driving conditions improve, the rear clutch disengages further, allowing the vehicle to operate more like a front‑drive car to optimize fuel efficiency.
- There is no dedicated low‑range gear in this on‑demand AWD setup; it is designed for surface traction and stability rather than off‑roading in low gear.
In practice, the Traverse’s AWD system works largely invisibly to the driver, automatically adapting to road conditions to maximize traction without requiring intervention.
How the system’s control hardware and software operate
The following list explains the sensors, actuators, and control logic that govern how torque is managed.
- A central control module processes data from wheel‑speed sensors, throttle position, steering input, yaw rate, and braking signals to determine whether rear torque is warranted.
- The rear differential contains an electronically controlled multi‑plate clutch that engages to send engine torque to the rear axle; the amount of rearward torque is adjusted continuously based on conditions.
- The system works in concert with GM’s stability and traction control systems (such as Stabilitrak) to apply brakes on individual wheels or modulate engine torque to maintain directional control on slippery surfaces.
- Fuel‑economy considerations are part of the calibration: when AWD isn’t necessary, the system favors front‑drive operation to minimize parasitic losses.
Overall, the AWD system relies on a combination of sensors, an electronically controlled rear‑axle clutch, and vehicle stability software to manage torque distribution automatically and seamlessly.
Driving in different conditions
What to expect from the Traverse AWD under various weather and road situations:
- On dry pavement, the system largely stays in front‑drive mode to maximize efficiency, with rare, brief rear engagement if needed for stability.
- In rain, snow, or light ice, the AWD system can send more torque to the rear wheels to improve grip and maintain stability through corners and in acceleration.
- During aggressive acceleration or sudden maneuvers on slick surfaces, the system may temporarily distribute more torque rearward and utilize stability controls to help prevent wheel slip or loss of control.
- There is no user‑controlled “lock” for the rear axle in everyday Chevrolet Traverse AWD; the system is designed for automatic, adaptive traction rather than manual engagement.
For drivers in regions with frequent winter weather, proper tires and cautious acceleration remain essential, as AWD aids traction but does not substitute for tire performance.
Summary
The Chevy Traverse’s AWD is an on‑demand, electronically controlled system that defaults to front‑drive and automatically transfers torque to the rear axle as needed to improve traction and stability. It integrates with GM’s stability and traction control systems to manage torque distribution in real time, without a driver‑selected lock or low‑range gear. In normal conditions it promotes efficiency, while in slick conditions it enhances grip through automatic rear torque when required. This design aims to deliver safer, more confident driving across varied weather and road surfaces.
How does the all wheel drive work on a Chevy Traverse?
AWD Mode distributes power to all four wheels to improve traction on slippery surfaces, including gravel, wet pavement, snow, and ice. The AWD system automatically activates in certain driver-selectable modes but can also be manually engaged using the dedicated switch on the dash.
How to put a Chevy Traverse in 4 wheel drive?
Drive if you want to switch it over say you're going on a hilly mountain. You can flip it to the right it'll go right. There. One more that's if you're going to be towing. Something.
How does Chevy AWD work?
The AWD system typically distributes power evenly on all four Chevy wheels, but it will send more torque to the back two wheels if they start to lose traction. Your Chevy's AWD system will provide the front wheels with more torque to optimize fuel economy if the weather is good.
Can you leave AWD on all the time?
Yes, you can leave all-wheel drive (AWD) on all the time, as most modern AWD systems are designed to be always on and automatically adjust to conditions. However, on dry, paved roads, it may be more fuel-efficient to switch to two-wheel drive if your vehicle has that option, since AWD adds a slight amount of drag that reduces gas mileage.
Benefits of leaving AWD on
- Constant traction and stability: AWD provides consistent traction on a variety of surfaces, making it ideal for driving in wet or snowy conditions.
- Automatic operation: The system automatically directs power to the wheels with the most grip, so you don't need to manually engage or disengage it in most situations.
Potential drawbacks of leaving AWD on
- Fuel economy: On dry roads, AWD can lead to slightly lower fuel efficiency because the drivetrain components are always working, which is not necessary for most driving.
- Wear and tear: For vehicles with switchable AWD, running the system on dry roads constantly can cause extra wear on the drivetrain components over time, as explained on this YouTube video.
When to use other modes
- Two-wheel drive (if available): Use this mode for better fuel economy on dry, paved roads.
- 4WD (if available): Engage this in specific situations like off-roading, deep snow, or other extreme conditions where you need extra control and power to all four wheels, as shown on this YouTube video.
