4WD vs AWD

[Booyahzman]

Hey everyone,

I'm in the search for a 03+ Yukon, and have always sought one with the 4WD system due to wanting to lift it, but would also like to get more information on the differences between the 4WD system and the AWD system.

I know the 4WD system basically has a 2WD, 4WD, and an auto setting. How does the AWD system on these trucks work? Does it switch between either the front or rear wheels having traction? Which would be best for towing? How about MPG, is one better than the other usually?

I'm just looking for any and all information I can get my hands on! Thanks in advance!

 

[livingez_123]

The AWD is just that, AWD. no hi or lo. There is a viscous clutch in the TF case that sense's slip in either the front or rear diffs. It adjusts the amount of power going to either end. It's almost as good as a Subaru system. If you blow drive line (front or rear) with the AWD system you go no where without destroying your TC clutch. if you had the 4wd system you can just put it in 4x4 and drive it home. There are no electronics involved with the AWD system. Now, IDK if the NNBS AWD system is different.

 

[z0lt3c]

The awd system does like to eat front differentials which seems to be less of a problem w the 4x4 system.

Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk

 

[livingez_123]

The awd system does like to eat front differentials which seems to be less of a problem w the 4x4 system.

You are correct. I did get 100k out of mine before a re-bearing.
The 4wd's have an axle disconnect where the AWD's don't.

And it does seem that 90-130k is where most of them start to make noise.

 

[Booyahzman]

Thanks for the replies, everyone!

Sent via Tapatalk 4

 

[BRUTUS_T_HOG]

4wd would be better for towing and for fuel economy. I consider the 4wd to be more durable and reliable.

AWD is just fine for on and offload use but less effective since you can't control the full lock. It locks into full 4wd only when wheel slip is detected.

As others had mentioned the front differentials tend to be noisy with high mileage and the viscous coupling in the transfer case eventually fail and need replaced

 

[saif najd]

My personal preferences is:

2WD or 4WD! Never ever AWD!!

I conceder the AWD a scam by the car manufacturers!!

Why?

The AWD consume the front axles or diff and steering and brakes (the extra front power load!) wich iw good for them more maintenance= more parts replacement+labor+ shorter vehicle life

simply like they are telling us " if you didn't like the FWD because it is BAD and you prepared the RWD as the premium level cars (and old) we preset to you the worst AWD now you well double your service plans we can add a small flip switch for you to chose which mode you prefer (FWD/RWD or AWD/4WD) but nooo only the ECU can do the change after it makes sure that everything was consumed!

Any SUV built AWD I well never buy it or use it only 4WD part time /2WD (RWD) only!

I may be old school but I prefer real on fakes!

Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk 2

 

[Yukongk]

Yea, I am ok with AWD, but not if it means I have to sacrifice 4-lo. My old Jeep had AWD, but still had the option of 4-lo. It was a good compromise, but gas mileage always takes a hit. I prefer to be able to choose (2wd, 4-hi, 4-lo, auto 4wd).

 

[Gzes]

Don't like awd.. I'd look for 4wd only

 

[JochenWoern]

Yea, I am ok with AWD, but not if it means I have to sacrifice 4-lo. My old Jeep had AWD, but still had the option of 4-lo. It was a good compromise, but gas mileage always takes a hit. I prefer to be able to choose (2wd, 4-hi, 4-lo, auto 4wd).

I can still switch into 4LO with my AWD. However, I am NOT arguing any points made above.

 

[SnowBuck]

Throw Stabilatrak in the mix

Denali's have the AWD. Most Yukons and all Suburbans the 2H/4H/4L. HOWEVER, there are a rare few Yukons with the Stabilatrak which is a computerized hybrid between the 2 that controls power to each wheel and DOES has 4/L. LOL Look up "squiggly line button"!

 

[JochenWoern]

Denali's have the AWD. Most Yukons and all Suburbans the 2H/4H/4L. HOWEVER, there are a rare few Yukons with the Stabilatrak which is a computerized hybrid between the 2 that controls power to each wheel and DOES has 4/L. LOL Look up "squiggly line button"!

This is what i have in my YUKON, ............

Now we just need to find out if this is any better or worse than AWD, compared to 4WD.

 

[Jester1023]

Just wanted to recycle this older post as I just picked up an 04 Yukon SLT summit white 5.3 with the stabilitak as well same as Jochens sweet ride I am curious to see how it handles a northeast winter.from everything I've read and heard I will really enjoy driving this vehicle.4wd/awd without having to worry about switching in and out of 4wd with 4lo available just in case I need it.

At first I was not too keen on FT 4wd but the more I read about it the more I think it may suit my drive style the occasional family camp trip,able to handle a northeast winter and having the 4lo available if ever needed.

Sometimes rekindling an older post will bring in some new people new opinions and other perspective's on a vehicle

 

[Chubbs]

http://www.tahoeyukonforum.com/threads/full-time-4wd-opinions.104267/

general motors makes a decent driveline. you just have to drain and refill both differentials and transfer case lube with quality product and then inspect it for leaks every few months. skim through the other posting that I linked for positive suggestions and feedback on the "awd vs. 4wd"

its all about preventative maintenance, really. you have these fools that think gear lube lasts forever and doesn't require servicing. when bearings get toasted or seals leak to the point of a low fill level, obviously you are going to have some sort of problem. there is no evidence that awd has more or less engineered or service issues than any other setup. just take care of your vehicle. crawling under there for a thorough inspection several times a year may be the difference maker as there is no warning chime for "low gear lube" or "transfer case leak"

I guarantee you, all of these folks bitching about failed diff and transfer case never once changed the oils, nor would they have replaced any parts if they even happened to look for leaks.

the nutbox who made the rant talking about "prefer real over fake" and manufacturer conspiracies regarding the awd platform was on narcotics. this thread prob should have been burned.