AWD cars for sale in California (2024)

FAQs

Do I need AWD in California? ›

If you are outdoors people and enjoy the Sierras to the east, AWD might help, as @db4690 said. If you stay in the valley, it isn't needed.

AWD is blatantly unnecessary for most people that drive around town, commute, road trip, etc. AWD is helpful (and not totally necessary) in snowy and icy conditions where you are not equipped with winter tires.

AWD systems require a bit more fuel to operate, so you might find yourself filling up a little more frequently. Even part-time AWD drive systems that basically operate as Front-Wheel Drive unless the system detects a need for AWD still use up more fuel overall.

Full-Time or On/Off 4WD

Many cars are equipped with the full-time all-wheel-drive: Toyota Land Cruiser, Land Cruiser Prado; Land Rover Discovery, Defender; Volkswagen Touareg.

All vehicles towing trailers must have chains on one drive axle. Trailers with brakes must have chains on at least one axle. Requirement 2 (R2): Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels.

Depending on the system (designs vary), AWD can provide maximum forward traction during acceleration. It is especially helpful in sloppy road conditions and when driving over moderate off-road terrain. It can help get you going and keep you moving through mud, sand, and other loose surfaces.

All-wheel drive costs more. But, the good news is that AWD vehicles also have a higher resale value than their front-wheel drive counterparts. You'll need to consider the upfront difference, though, when you're planning your budget.

Advantages of All-Wheel Drive

AWD cars can make their way through snow and ice more effectively, while high-powered AWD vehicles can accelerate more quickly than two-wheel drive cars as they can put more of that power to the pavement. There are multiple types of AWD systems. The most common is an FWD-biased AWD system.

Yes, as you might suspect, a vehicle with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) does require more service maintenance than a standard two-wheel drive car. That's important to know since AWD and 4WD cars, trucks, and SUVs are extremely popular today, and for good reason.

AWDs can weigh hundreds of pounds more than identical rear-wheel drives (RWD) and front-wheel drives (FWD.) The problem with this extra weight is the car's acceleration can be negatively affected. It will take longer to reach a desired speed in a heavier vehicle.

Can you turn off AWD? ›

It can be toggled on and off to activate or deactivate all-wheel drive. Activating the AWD lock means that power will be evenly split amongst all four wheels of your vehicle.

All-wheel drive (AWD) costs more than front-wheel drive but provides added traction in bad weather. 4-wheel drive (4WD) allows more towing capability than AWD. It's not wise to use 4WD on anything but slippery, loose, or rugged surfaces.

However, it typically only works at low speeds and is meant for situations like getting out when parked in the snow. The lock will usually deactivate when a speed of around 20 miles-per-hour is exceeded.

Always turn off the AWD when you are on the road unless traction is at a premium (ice, snow, mud etc). There are reasons for this. First up is the fuel saving, by running two less wheels, there will be less drivetrain losses as well as more fuel efficient. You will also reduce the wear on the tires as well.

States with the Most

The combination of an extended snowy winter and more than 100 mountain ranges accounts for the popularity of having four drive wheels in Big Sky Country. The top 10 list is populated by states with similarly long winters and mountainous areas: Alaska, Wyoming and North Dakota.

Always turn off the AWD when you are on the road unless traction is at a premium (ice, snow, mud etc). There are reasons for this. First up is the fuel saving, by running two less wheels, there will be less drivetrain losses as well as more fuel efficient. You will also reduce the wear on the tires as well.

Where you live should determine the type of drivetrain you look for in a vehicle. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, the best option will be AWD or 4WD coupled with good winter tires. City/Suburban driving with moderate snow and ice – FWD or RWD with winter tires will suffice.

There are Three Levels of Chain Requirements in California: Requirement 1 (R1): Chains are required on all vehicles except passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks under 6,000 pounds gross weight and equipped with snow tires on at least two drive wheels. Chains must be carried by vehicles using snow tires.