MOPAR® Parts 101: Do Tires or 4WD Matter More for Traction?

Different parts have to work in tandem to provide traction for your vehicle. However, it’s easy to be confused as to which MOPAR® parts matter more for traction on your car. The Brooklyn Chrysler Jeep® Dodge RAM experts are here to help, answering whether tires or four-wheel drive (4WD) is more critical for providing traction.

What do Tires do For Traction?

You might hear different claims about a vehicle’s tires or drivetrain providing better traction than the other. However, in most cases, tires provide far more traction than 4WD.

Tires provide the actual grip on the surface you’re currently on. Different tires can give you better traction than others; often, switching the tires out for more appropriate ones will be far more impactful than driving without 4WD. Snow tires, for instance, are rated for colder climates and designed with a sharper tread to grip an icy road better.

Does 4WD Matter for Traction at All?

Drivetrains provide power to specific wheels, giving them primary control over your turning angle and stability. With 4WD, all wheels get an equal amount of energy from the engine. This means that all your wheels and tires have an even amount of pressure, leading to better overall traction.

Like any other system, four-wheel drive is only as strong as its weakest link. Great four-wheel drive matters little if the tires are old, worn, or bald. All else being equal, tires trump your driveline.

Bring Your Vehicle to Brooklyn Chrysler Jeep® Dodge RAM for MOPAR Parts Service

Of course, if your tires aren’t providing adequate traction, it’s time to bring your vehicle to Brooklyn Chrysler Jeep® Dodge RAM for service. Our service team is ready to help you with tire or drivetrain maintenance.