Why is my Escape AWD and 4WD ?

helpless53

What is the difference between all wheel and four wheel drive ? And why does it have both ? And if it has 4WD is it always engaged ? And if it's always engaged doesn't that hurt the transmission. Other 4WD vehicles I've had must be taken out of 4WD before continuing to drive on pavement. Thanks for any explanations. Helpless53

Mr_Shiftright

There's really no clear line between the two, and there are many different systems. The confusion mostly results from how automakers market their systems. Your Escape doesn't have mechanically locked front and rear wheels, so it's not 4WD in the traditional sense. But it IS 4WD anyway. Confused?

HERE'S a pretty good explanation.

explorerx4

Not sure what year your Escape is, but prior to 2013, I'm pretty sure it was FWD until the front wheels detected slip, then power to the rear wheels would be added.
Prior to 2005, they also have a 'locked' 4WD mode.
2013 and up the AWD versions start with out power all 4 wheels and switch to FWD at some point.