Generally, you don't need to manually "turn on" your vehicle's all-wheel drive (AWD) system. All-wheel drive is typically not intended to be engaged manually; as such, there is typically no need (or ability) to manually engage one's all-wheel drive system. Modern AWD systems are designed to operate automatically, constantly monitoring road conditions and adjusting power distribution to the wheels as needed without driver intervention.
This means that in most vehicles equipped with automatic AWD, the system is always active and ready to distribute power to all four wheels whenever it detects a loss of traction. It's not something you toggle on or off like a headlight.
Understanding Manual Controls (AWD Lock)
While the primary AWD function is automatic, some vehicles do include an “AWD Lock” button. It's important to understand that this button doesn't "turn on" the AWD system itself, but rather modifies its behavior for specific situations.
Pressing the "AWD Lock" button typically:
- Locks the system into 50/50 distribution of power between the front and rear wheels. This provides a fixed power split, which can be beneficial in certain challenging conditions.
- Is usually intended for use at low speeds only (often deactivating automatically above a certain speed).
- Is best used in situations like:
- Driving on very slippery surfaces (snow, ice, mud) at low speeds.
- Getting unstuck from a low-traction situation.
Using the "AWD Lock" function on dry pavement or at high speeds can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the drivetrain components. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions and limitations regarding your vehicle's AWD system and any "AWD Lock" feature it may have.
In summary, if your vehicle has an automatic AWD system, it's always "on" and operating in the background. If it has an "AWD Lock" button, it's a temporary mode for specific low-speed, low-traction scenarios, not a switch to activate the standard AWD function.
