It's time to upgrade your daily commute to a four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle, but how do you know which one is right for you? Do you want to feel the drivetrain engage the 4WD system as you shift into it, or would you prefer state-of-the-art sensor technology to do the work for you with an active all-wheel drive system? Whether you choose a sedan with AWD or a SUV with 4WD, you can find both options at Sunnyside Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram in McHenry, IL.

Continue reading to learn how each system works for you, or browse through our inventory of new AWD and 4WD vehicles.

RAM 1500 & Jeep Cherokee AWD & 4WD Performance in McHenry, IL

How Does 4WD Work With Jeep SUVs & Ram Trucks? 

Under normal driving situations, two wheels moving your vehicle is more than enough to get from point A to point B, but during snowy, rainy, or slippery conditions, the torque that four-wheel drive provides may be needed. The part-time four-wheel drive system included on most modern 4WD SUVs and trucks is the best way to get going when the weather gets rough.  

Current 4WD systems are part-time, meaning the driver has to turn on or engage the system in order to send torque to all four wheels. When engaged, the 4WD system sends power to all four wheels via a transfer case. Designed to split the torque equally between the front and rear drive shafts, the transfer case sends half the power to the front wheels and the other half to the rear wheels. Both drive shafts spin at the same speed to provide greater traction and power to the wheels. With all four wheels spinning with equal power at the same time, your truck or SUV will be able to get through or over almost any driving conditions.

While four-wheel drive does deliver the best traction in off-road and extremely slick driving conditions, it isn't perfect for every situation. 4WD systems add weight and more moving parts to your truck or SUV, and it isn't meant for on-road driving. Engaging your 4WD system during normal conditions can actually damage key components, so it's best to only engage it when you absolutely need it.    

How Does AWD Work With Dodge, Chrysler & Jeep Models?   

What's the difference between AWD and 4WD? Aren't they basically the same? While both do provide greater traction, there are a few key differences in the way function. Modern all-wheel drive systems are active the entire time your vehicle is moving and don't require you to shift or activate a system. Sensor technology detects when your wheels slip and send extra power to the wheel that needs it.

AWD is useful for handling snowy or rainy conditions, but lacks the consistent power for off-road or extremely slippery conditions that 4WD delivers. AWD systems do their best work under conditions when wheels have different levels of grip from moment to moment.

 
 


2017 Jeep Cherokee Performance 4WD in McHerny, IL  

Why Test Drive a 4WD or AWD Vehicle at Sunnyside?

With the complete lineup of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles available for sale at our dealership in McHenry, IL, you'll have access to every 4WD or AWD model offered. But that's not all you'll receive when you visit Sunnyside. Our friendly team of product specialists wants you to have a great 4WD or AWD vehicle buying experience with us. From the moment you visit our showroom to your first oil change and beyond, our team works to provide you with the highest levels of customer service.

   

Discover your next new 4WD or AWD car, truck, or SUV in our inventory and schedule a test drive to experience the Sunnyside difference!

2017 Jeep Wrangler Performance AWD & 4WD in McHenry, IL

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