How Much Does It Cost to Service AWD? Let's Have a Look

Maintaining an All-wheeled drive (AWD) vehicle is vital in keeping it performing at a high level. It is also essential as you can avoid huge and expensive repair costs in the future. But you must also consider the servicing expenses in such cases. And this begs the question, how much does it cost to service AWD.

The cost of servicing an AWD vehicle depends on various factors. An essential factor to consider is the vehicle model you are using. That said, you can expect to spend between $200 to $700 on servicing an AWD in your vehicle a year. 

Maintenance of an All-wheel-drive vehicle would sometimes involve costs from repair to other maintenance routine expenses. In this article, we will discuss all you need to know about servicing, repair, and other maintenance of an AWD vehicle. 

Is it worth paying more to have an AWD car?

AWD vehicles allow the tires to gain traction independently of each other. These systems are primarily found in several models of cars; vehicles like this have powertrains on all four tires. And the pull comes from different angles; the cars' front, center, and rear. 

All-Wheel Drive is popular with motorists because of its safety and ability to navigate uneven terrain. This system is different from the four-wheel drive (4WD). Compared to the AWD, the 4WD sends power evenly among the vehicle's tires. While AWD systems are popular in cars, the 4WD suits trucks and heavy-duty hauling.

So, maintaining your All-wheel-drive vehicle is vital to enhancing its performance. Servicing is one of those activities that you should pay attention to. But routine maintenance checks and other repairs are also essential to keeping your vehicle at its best.

However, the cost is a subject we all like to examine; this depends on a few factors. What are the other things to consider around the expense of maintaining this vehicle? Let's find out. 

Factors Affecting the Cost of Servicing an All-Wheel Drive

The cost of service for an AWD vehicle depends on various factors. From the car's model to other potential repairs, the expenses to service an AWD may differ for several reasons. This section will discuss four key factors influencing the cost of servicing an All-Wheel Drive. 

1) The Make and Model of The Vehicle

It is easy to tell that different vehicle models can mean differences in the cost of general maintenance. And that is no different from servicing cars with AWD systems. A Honda CR-V with AWD systems is less expensive to service compared to other cars. You can expect to spend between $200 to $300 for servicing. On the other hand, expect $300 to $500 if it is a Subaru you are driving. 

However, a BMW X5 and an Audi can cost between $500 to $800 and 400 to $700, respectively. You want to check out how much it costs to service an All-Wheel-Drive Vehicle with the make/model of your car. 

2) Maintenance Task

Another factor affecting the price is the maintenance task the mechanic carries out on the car. It is easy to think that only one type of task goes on when you service an All-Wheel-Drive vehicle. There are various maintenance checkups that, if performed regularly, can also reduce the cost of servicing your vehicle. 

You will have to spend $80 to $100 if you need only a fluid replacements. Tire alignment can also cost you around $100 to $200, while brake system maintenance costs around $150 to $300. Drive train inspection is up there among the most expensive maintenance task of an AWD vehicle. You can spend up to $400 for this purpose. 

So, these maintenance tasks contribute to the price of servicing an AWD. If you perform regular maintenance, servicing will incur low expenses. 

3) Dealership vs. Independent Service Providers

This factor is another reason why the expenses of servicing your AWD vehicle may vary. Carrying out this process with a Dealership is most times slightly higher than going to an independent service provider. 

However, you must compare the average cost of working with the two. But generally, the average cost of routine maintenance with an independent service provider is around $300. In comparison, the average repair cost could be as high as $600. This price is higher when you work with a Dealership. 

Many other factors can affect the cost of servicing an AWD vehicle, including location and the cost of some components. Upgrades and performance enhancements are also high factors influencing AWD car servicing prices. 

It is left to you to weigh in on some of these primary factors when considering how much it would cost to service an AWD vehicle. 

What is the Cost of Potential Repairs of an AWD Vehicle?

Repair cost might be another factor in maintaining or servicing AWD, but paying attention to the expenses that may incur with certain repairs on these cars is vital. For example, running system diagnostics on an AWD vehicle can sometimes cost you at least $100. 

Some repair services like joint and driveshaft fixing can cost anywhere between $300 to $600. The importance of the joint and driveshaft in AWD systems must be emphasized, as this component plays a crucial role in these vehicles' driveability and smooth performance. 

Also, repairs that involve the axle and bearings of an All-Wheel Drive are expected to cost up to $800. While transmission servicing can cost you $200, expect to spend up to $500 in some cases. 

The cost of repair also varies. Many motorists tend to spend more than there would be because of poor maintenance. If you drive any type of vehicle, doing a scheduled check-up can help you avoid some significant issues that may occur. 

Tips For Avoiding High Cost of AWD Servicing

Several practices can save you money and time when servicing your AWD vehicle. Many people need to pay more attention to helpful maintenance tips that can save costs. But here are some things to never forget if you want to spend less servicing your car:

• Regular maintenance and scheduled check-ups for minor issues.
• Choose the best independent service provider available. Also, ensure that the independent service provider specializes in handling All-Wheel-Drive vehicles.
• Proper alignment and rotation can reduce the cost of servicing, repairs, and other services.
• Explore for the best warranty coverage. More extended warranty coverage can drastically cut the expenses on services.

What are the Advantages of Driving an All-Wheel-Drive Vehicle?

Drivers can enjoy a few benefits with this system of vehicles due to its suitability for specific terrains. Compared to 4WD vehicles, it is only partially correct to assume AWD is better, as both systems perform well in their capacities. However, here are some key takeaways of why an All-Wheel is a great option:

1) Better Performance

All-Wheel-Drive cars tend to have great performances, as they possess independent power traction on each tire. This feature allows the vehicle to have a superior grip and capacity. 

It also means that there is a good balance in the weight distribution, as this factor is vital to the mobility of every vehicle. So as a result, motorists can enjoy smooth driveability and acceleration while driving. 

2) Superior Traction

One of the standout features of All-Wheel-Drive cars is their traction. All four tires can possess the same pull power, which can be advantageous in harsh terrains. You can avoid wheel slips and navigate icy and wet roads with AWD. 

3) Off-road Ability

AWD cars drive on the front and rear wheels, so it is no surprise that one of its best characteristics involves suitability on uneven roads. Most off-roaders prefer this type of vehicle as its grip capacity and better traction can suit driving off-road.

What are The Disadvantages of an All-Wheel Drive?

Although the AWD has excellent attributes and merits, it also possesses some setbacks. Some of the disadvantages are:

1) Reduced Fuel Economy

A common setback with All-wheel-drive cars is their fuel efficiency. The AWD systems require a small amount of fuel to operate, which can lead to reduced fuel economy. And this is a drawback in comparison to other systems, such as the FWD and RWD models. 

So, you must keep this in mind if you use this type of car. 

2) High Maintenance

Anyone who knows how AWD cars work can tell this system's complexity; All-Wheel-Drive vehicles require high maintenance and regular check-ups. Repairs and scheduled maintenance costs can also climb higher than regular car systems.

Is The All-Wheel Drive Vehicle Worth It?

The All-wheel drive system is famous for being suitable for areas with snow, mud, and other forms of challenging terrain. So, if you live in a city where you are liable to navigate these terrains, an AWD would be a helpful asset. 

However, driving through cities and highways would be okay with an FWD with good tires. If you are moving from a city to an area with roads affected by poor weather, an AWD vehicle should be on your mind. 

Wrapping Up

The cost of maintaining All-Wheel-Drive systems can be higher than FWD, RWD, and others. However, All-Wheel Drive cars have advantages while driving on different types of roads. 

It also has excellent traction, giving it smooth acceleration and better general performance. And these advantages justify the cost of your higher maintenance spending. 

Regardless, there are helpful tips that can avoid costly repairs and reduce maintenance costs. Regular checks, proper alignment, and exploring extended warranty coverage can help cut costs. 

In conclusion, the cost of servicing an AWD can depend on various factors. Maintenance is a vital part of using this vehicle. So, if you live in an area where an All-Wheel-Drive car is necessary, you should also be aware of the potential expenses that come with it.