Under what circumstances does the all-wheel drive system engage?
2 Answers
The all-wheel drive system will switch from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive when it detects wheel slippage, active steering, or loss of vehicle control; or when the driver manually locks the system under appropriate conditions. The system will switch from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive under the following circumstances: 1. When wheel slippage is detected. If the front wheels slip, meaning the vehicle loses traction, the all-wheel drive system will quickly engage four-wheel drive upon detecting the slippage. At this point, up to 50%-55% of the power can be transferred to the rear wheels to help the vehicle regain traction. 2. When active turning is detected. The system uses integrated vehicle sensors to monitor the vehicle's status. When the sensors detect that the vehicle is entering a turn, the all-wheel drive system will engage four-wheel drive. By distributing power to the rear wheels, the vehicle's friction increases, thereby enhancing stability during the turn.
I just switched to an SUV with an on-demand AWD system. It feels quite fuel-efficient when driving in the city, but it automatically activates on slippery surfaces. For example, during rain, snow, or when encountering waterlogged roads, the system detects front-wheel slip and immediately distributes power to the rear wheels to help stabilize the vehicle. This feature is particularly useful on muddy roads or snowy terrain, and it also engages easily when climbing hills to prevent wheel spin. The key is its intelligence—it adjusts in real-time based on speed, steering, and wheel speed sensors, ensuring it doesn't engage during highway driving or turns to avoid wasting fuel. Remember not to rely on it too much; regular tire wear checks can reduce misjudgments and make driving safer.
