On a front-wheel-drive (FWD) car, the both wheels on the front turn as they receive power from the engine to propel the vehicle forward.
Understanding which wheels turn on a car depends on its drivetrain configuration. In a front-wheel-drive system, the engine's power is directed specifically to the front axle. This setup is common in many passenger cars for its efficiency and packaging benefits.
Front-Wheel Drive Explained
In a FWD system:
- The engine, transmission, and differential are typically located at the front of the car.
- Power is sent directly to the two front wheels via half-shafts.
- These front wheels are responsible for pulling the car forward.
- They also handle the steering.
As confirmed by the reference, in a front-wheel-drive car, both wheels on the front turn. While all four wheels rotate when the car is in motion, the term "turn" in this context, as used in the reference, refers to the wheels that receive engine power and actively drive the vehicle.
Comparing Drivetrain Types
Different drivetrain types distribute power to various wheels, affecting how the vehicle moves and handles. The reference also touches upon other configurations:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): On a RWD car, the Rear wheels get the power. The front wheels are primarily for steering.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): AWD gives power to all the wheels, though sometimes it regulated the wheel power based on grip so some wheels get less power, some get more.
- Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): Similar to AWD, power is sent to all wheels. The reference states that on a 4wd and all wheel drive car same thing (referring to the front wheels turning, but implying all wheels are involved in receiving power).
Here's a simple breakdown:
| Drivetrain Type | Wheels Receiving Power | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| Front-Wheel Drive | Both front wheels | Pull the car, steer |
| Rear-Wheel Drive | Both rear wheels | Push the car, front steer |
| All-Wheel Drive | All four wheels* | Maximum traction |
| Four-Wheel Drive | All four wheels | Off-road capability |
*AWD systems can vary power distribution dynamically.
In summary, focusing on the question and the provided reference, the two front wheels are the ones that turn under power in a front-wheel-drive car.
