How to distinguish between driving wheels and driven wheels?

[OJordan]

Driving wheels and driven wheels can be distinguished based on energy transfer relationships, connected mechanisms, and the direction of rotation and torque. Detailed methods to distinguish driving wheels and driven wheels are as follows: A driving wheel actively transfers mechanical energy to the driven wheel, so its torque and rotation directions are opposite. In contrast, a driven wheel receives mechanical energy from the driving wheel, so its torque and rotation directions are the same. The driving wheel provides kinetic energy, while the driven wheel starts moving due to friction. Both move in the same direction, but the friction forces they experience differ: the driving wheel's friction opposes its motion, whereas the driven wheel's friction aligns with its motion. The driving wheel segment bears tension, while the driven wheel generally follows the belt's movement. The driving wheel is smaller than the driven wheel, causing the driven wheel to rotate slower. The larger the transmission speed ratio, the smaller the driven wheel's diameter, resulting in a shorter arc of contact with the belt and reduced friction driving it. The driving wheel primarily relies on external force (input force), such as a gear driven by an engine, while the driven wheel depends on the driving force, being pulled by the belt.

[DePenelope]

To be honest, distinguishing between driving wheels and driven wheels in daily driving isn't that difficult. Driving wheels are the ones pushed by the engine to move the car forward or backward, while driven wheels simply follow along without power input. The easiest way is to check your car's drivetrain: if it's front-wheel drive, the front wheels are the driving wheels; for rear-wheel drive, it's the rear wheels; and for all-wheel drive, either set could be driving. You can also observe during turns - driving wheels rotate more actively. Distinguishing this is quite important for driving, such as in snowy conditions where driving wheel slippage can lead to loss of control, requiring careful throttle management. For maintenance too, the drive shafts and differentials connected to driving wheels are more prone to wear, so it's recommended to check them during every service to avoid unexpected issues. Remembering this can make driving safer and more efficient.

[DeJustin]

As a long-time car enthusiast, I believe the key to understanding drive wheels and driven wheels lies in the drivetrain system. Drive wheels are directly connected to the engine via driveshafts or axles, serving as the immediate recipients of power; whereas driven wheels rotate independently without contributing to vehicle propulsion. In vehicle design, rear-wheel-drive cars have active rear wheels and passive front wheels, while front-wheel-drive vehicles are the opposite. All-wheel-drive systems are more complex, with all wheels capable of being active. The distinguishing feature is whether the wheel has additional connecting components—drive wheels typically have protruding axles. This is crucial for performance: drive wheels dominate thrust during cornering and affect handling, such as how rear-wheel-drive cars may oversteer when entering a turn at high speed. During maintenance, the hubs and bearings of drive wheels require special attention, with regular checks to ensure even tire pressure.

[Bo]

If you're a new driver, the difference between drive wheels and driven wheels is like role assignment: drive wheels are the 'leading brothers', pulled by the engine to move the car; driven wheels are 'followers', rotating passively without applying power. Depending on your vehicle type, front-wheel drive means front wheels are drive wheels, rear-wheel drive means rear wheels are drive wheels; all wheels are drive wheels in four-wheel drive. In daily inspections under the car, drive wheels have thicker drive shafts, making them easier to identify. Understanding this helps in actual driving, such as when starting on a slope, drive wheels can provide pushing force to prevent rolling back. Remember to check tire condition during seasonal maintenance to avoid uneven wear causing bumpiness.