How Four-Wheel Drive Works. As the name indicates, all four wheels on the vehicle will have power to help propel it. On 2WD vehicles, there is only one differential on the axle that moves the wheels. On a 4WD truck, there is a differential on both axles. The differential is part of the transfer case that transfers the power from the engine to In 4WD or AWD vehicles, the main function of the transfer case is to transmit the power from the engine to the front and rear axles. Normally, within a transfer case, there are 2 gear settings (high and low). The high gear setting is suitable for basic off-road driving conditions. For example, if you are driving in snowy, rainy, muddy, or dirt An AWD car delivers lower efficiency than a 4WD vehicle. It's because, in an AWD system, the power is constantly transmitted to all four wheels, and the engine has to work hard to keep up with power demand. Whereas in a 4x4 car, the system is engaged only when it is necessary. 1. Elevated driving position. The 4-wheel drive might be the right choice for you if you prefer to drive your car higher off the ground. A higher driving position gives you better visibility on the road, and makes accessibility easier, and people often feel a greater sense of safety. 4 Wheel Drive Troubleshooting. 2. xDrive is classed as ‘all-wheel drive’. In the standard system during normal driving, 40 per cent of the power is sent to the front wheels and 60 per cent is sent to the rear. Then, when How Does 4-Wheel Drive Work? A 4-wheel drive system works by transferring power to all 4 wheels through a gearing arrangement known as differentials. The engine connects to these differentials by a drive shaft, which feeds the power to the wheels using the drive axles. It provides a less-sensitive gas pedal and transmission shifting optimized for low-grip conditions. Next, Sand mode is for driving on soft, dry sand, like on a beach. Sand mode engages four-wheel drive and the rear differential lock. Additionally, Mud/Ruts mode works with the rear differential lock to provide extra traction for off-road driving. How does all wheel drive work?This video explains how All Wheel Drive works and how it differs from 4WD. It also explains automatic AWD, meaning the car usua duVL.