Four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles are becoming very popular. While they have some practical advantages they do require different maintenance techniques. Your vehicle has to be ready to take on the challenges of your driving style or terrain in the area and in order to keep those service bills down and avoid any costly repairs it's important to be proactive. Here is everything you need to know about your four-wheel-drive truck as well as some of the things our technicians at Dirk’s Auto Clinic in Crystal River, FL check every time you visit our shop to ensure we take care of any issue you might have.

Four-Wheel Drive Benefits - Four-wheel drive is ideal for driving in conditions when there is low to very little traction. For example, if you frequently drive in loose dirt or take your vehicle off-road, you will greatly benefit from a four-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive vehicles are convenient and can provide more traction on slippery roads or while off-roading. Some of our newer trucks automatically slip into four-wheel drive, so you do not have to do anything to turn it on. The automatic system normally turns on when one or more of the wheels start slipping. Other vehicles have the option of turning the four-wheel-drive on and off. The benefit of turning it on and off is to improve the fuel economy.

4WD vs. All-Wheel - Not all four-wheel-drive vehicles are considered an all-wheel drive. There is a difference between the two. All-wheel drive applies to drive train systems that include a differential between the front and rear driveshafts. All-wheel drive vehicles come with anti-slip technology and work well on all surfaces. Four-wheel drive vehicles have a transfer case.

4-Wheel Drive Issues and Maintenance - Heavy loads are more likely to cause issues in the suspension of a 4-wheel drive vehicle leading to chassis damage. 4-wheel drives need more maintenance because of the extra parts and the chassis can take a beating over time due to neglect or hard driving. If you are buying a used 4-wheel drive, let our technicians check it for cracks where the chassis outriggers join the mainframe or rust, which indicates rough use.

Your 4-wheel drive Jeep, truck, or SUV, has a whole extra system of components you need to keep in shape to ensure your vehicle continues at top performance. 4WD and AWD systems are like any other system on your vehicle; you have to keep it regularly maintained in order to keep it working right. These systems are typically pretty durable, but components like the transfer case and differentials are full of bearings, seals, and moving parts that need to be regularly maintained, just like your engine or transmission.

Keep an eye out for leaks, and pay attention to any irregular sounds or malfunctions. If a part is starting to fail or a component runs out of fluid, catastrophic damage will occur at some point. You're much better off bringing it to the attention of our specialists here at Dirk’s Auto Clinic in Crystal River before extensive problems arise.

Fluids should also be drained and replaced regularly, to keep everything running smoothly. Differentials and transfer cases have gear oil in them, and they should be changed on time just like your engine or transmission, to ensure it lasts for years to come. That way, you can rest assured your 4X4 system won't let you down when you need it most.

No matter your repair or maintenance needs, we've got you covered with the best technicians in the business and top diagnostic equipment to ensure we get the job done right and quickly. For the best transmission service shop in Crystal River, FL, call or stop by Dirk’s Auto Clinic today.

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Thank you for visiting Dirk's Auto Clinic in Crystal River, FL. Count on our automotive repair technicians to keep your car, truck, suv, or van on the roads longer and safer.

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