It’s an understandable question, especially from owners of all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles: “Do I need winter tires if I have AWD?” After all, the reasoning goes, AWD offers twice the tire power as front-wheel-drive (FWD) and rear-wheel-drive (RWD) cars!
No matter your vehicle is AWD, FWD, RWD, or even four-wheel drive (4WD or also called 4X4), you may still need winter tires if you live where snow or freezing temperatures are common. While some drivetrains are better at distributing available traction, all of your vehicle’s traction comes from the tires. If your tires are heavily worn or not designed for cold, snowy, or icy weather, even the best AWD or 4WD system can’t provide the grip you need. That's why, if you must drive in severe winter weather, installing a set of winter tires can dramatically improve vehicle control regardless of the drive system.
AWD refers to drivetrains in which the vehicle selects its two- or four-wheel drive capabilities based on road conditions.
In this way, the “A” in AWD may as well stand for “adaptable:”
AWD vehicles can help you get out of snowed-in parking spots, tackle unplowed roads and accelerate on slick surfaces. But without winter tires, they’re not nearly as capable as they can be. AWD does little to aid turning and braking on snow and ice vs. a two-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with all-season tires.
While many people think that AWD is enough to take on dangerous ice and snow, there is almost no difference between AWD-equipped vehicles and ordinary cars when it comes to cornering, braking and handling in winter weather.
That surprises people who assume that AWD and four-wheel drive (often referred to as 4WD or 4X4) systems are essentially the same things. They’re not.
In contrast to AWD systems’ adaptable nature, 4WD systems send power to all four wheels equally, regardless of their traction. This “always-on” power is one of the key differences between AWD and 4WD. Believe it or not, though, not even 4WD creates traction - that’s the tires’ job. If the tires are traction-limited (either because of their design or from being heavily worn) 4WD may not be enough to keep the vehicle under control.
All-season tires are very capable and a great idea three seasons out of the year. But if you live in an area with significant snowfall or icy conditions multiple times per year, your all-season tires can’t compete against a winter onslaught.
Whether you drive AWD, 4WD, FWD, or RWD, adding winter tires gives distinct benefits over all others.
Do you need winter tires—even with an AWD vehicle? If safety and confidence matter to you in winter’s toughest conditions, the answer is yes.
Compared to all-season compounds, winter tires hold their flexibility even when the thermometer dips below 45°F.
Be aware of your vehicle’s capabilities this winter. If you’re taking on the roads with all-wheel drive, here are some quick tips to help you drive with confidence:
Check tire pressure weekly: Even AWD needs good traction—keep tires properly inflated and monitor for pressure drops in cold weather.
Use the correct drive mode: Select “Snow,” “Auto,” or “Lock” modes (if available) for current conditions to maximize your vehicle’s safety systems.
For people whose lives, jobs or interests take them off the beaten path — where unplowed roads, deep snow and uneven terrain greet them every winter — it’s difficult to beat 4WD.
Winter tires can still make all the difference, though. One reason: many 4WD systems are “part-time” and require the driver to activate them (versus AWD’s “always-on” status). Activating a 4WD system may help you get out of a tough spot once you’re in one, but winter tires can help ensure you don’t end up in that tough spot at all.
Most passenger cars and crossovers are designed with FWD. This can be a good option for driving in snow for two reasons:
Is FWD good in snow? FWD is one of the most efficient setup options for moderate winter climates, especially with the right winter tires. Compared to AWD, FWD can struggle more on steep, icy hills. For older FWD cars, putting some extra weight (like sandbags) in the trunk can help with rear-end stability and overall traction.
Pair these FWD advantages with winter tires and you’ll be well-prepared for winter driving.
RWD is common on sports cars, muscle cars, trucks and truck-based SUVs, and usually allows a more even weight distribution and better handling in ideal driving conditions. This is because the front wheels are responsible for steering while the rear wheels are tasked with sending power to the road.
Rear-wheel drive is less than ideal for driving in the snow. If you live in an area where measurable snow is infrequent or even rare — southern states, for example — driving a RWD vehicle is less of an issue.
In most situations, RWD vehicles have less weight over the driven wheels than a FWD, AWD or 4WD vehicle, so they will have more difficulty accelerating on icy roads and a greater possibility of losing control of the rear of the car.
A good set of winter tires can be a tremendous help in giving these vehicles secure traction and handling in snowy and icy conditions.
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. This won’t be the best option for deep snow, but it will be the most economical option since AWD vehicles are usually more expensive and use more fuel due to the AWD system's extra weight. AWD vehicles with all-season tires may be acceptable if the roads are plowed frequently.
City/Suburban driving with heavy snow and occasional rural driving – AWD with winter tires is your most versatile option. You will be able to handle winter’s worst conditions and still maintain performance on clear, dry roads.
Rural driving on unplowed roads and deep snow – If tackling steep hills on rutted, unpaved roads is necessary, you may need 4WD with a driver-selectable ”low” gear range. Otherwise, AWD with winter tires should do the trick as most AWD vehicles also provide sufficient ground clearance.
Remember: What wheel drive is best for snow starts with equipping the right set of winter tires for your climate and roads.
You should have your winter tires installed in late October/early November (or once the average daily temp dips below 45℉) — which tucks it between two major holidays and squarely in the new school semester. You must be patient, though, because not even the best snow tires will help if you don’t schedule a time to have them put on your car.
And you can’t look for any shortcuts. Do you need four winter tires or just two? You’ll want four for the best possible performance. Do you need to balance winter tires? Some factors can mitigate this need, but the short answer is yes, you need to balance winter tires. Safe winter driving means no shortcuts.
Stay prepared for whatever winter dishes out with this checklist:
Be sure all tires have tread depth of at least 4/32"
Test battery health (cold weather cuts battery performance)
Keep antifreeze topped up and mixed right for your region
Use washer fluid that won’t freeze up in low temps
Replace worn or streaky wiper blades
Stock an emergency kit: blanket, shovel, flashlight, traction aid (mats/sand/kitty litter), charger, and non-perishable snacks
Stick to your regular service schedule (oil, brakes, lights, 4WD/AWD checkups, and so on)
As multiple independent tests have concluded, winter tires are the most significant differentiating factor in a vehicle’s performance on snow and ice, and are essential for AWD and 4WD vehicles to perform their best in severe winter conditions.
Bridgestone winter tires offer the latest technology in tire compounds and tread design to help you drive confidently in winter’s worst conditions. The Blizzak line includes various studless, performance and truck/SUV winter tires to match your driving needs. Shop Blizzak winter tires at a Bridgestone retailer near you.