Sign In
3 min read

Drivetrain

The drivetrain is the system of components in a vehicle that transfers power from the engine to the wheels, enabling the car to move. It does not include the engine itself but instead focuses on the parts that deliver and control that power on the road.

Understanding drivetrains is essential for dealerships because it affects performance, efficiency, maintenance needs, and how sales teams explain differences between vehicle models to customers. 

What the Drivetrain Includes

The drivetrain consists of interconnected parts that work together to deliver power. Major components include:

  • Transmission: Adjusts the engine’s output into usable torque and speed.
  • Driveshaft: Transfers power from the transmission to the axles.
  • Differential(s): Splits and delivers power to the wheels while allowing them to rotate at different speeds.
  • Axles: Connect the wheels and bear vehicle weight while transmitting torque.
  • CV Joints/U-Joints: Flexible joints that accommodate motion and angles in the drivetrain.

Each drivetrain is planned to maximize traction, efficiency, and performance under specific driving conditions. 

Types of Drivetrains

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Power goes to the front wheels, making vehicles lighter, more fuel-efficient, and cost-effective. Common in sedans and compact cars.

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Power is delivered to the rear wheels, offering better balance and handling. Often used in performance cars and trucks.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Power is sent to all four wheels automatically, improving traction on varying surfaces. Popular in crossovers and SUVs.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD/4x4)

Allows drivers to manually engage all four wheels, ideal for off-road and heavy-duty conditions. Common in trucks and off-road vehicles.

Dealership staff should be able to clearly explain these differences, as drivetrain choice often influences customer decisions.

Why Drivetrains Matter to Customers

  • Performance: Drivetrains affect acceleration, handling, and traction.
  • Fuel Economy: FWD cars generally achieve better mileage than AWD or 4WD.
  • Weather Handling: AWD and 4WD systems provide confidence in snow, rain, or rough terrain.
  • Maintenance Costs: Complex systems like AWD may require more upkeep than simpler FWD setups.
  • Vehicle Purpose: Customers buying sports cars, family sedans, or work trucks prioritize different drivetrain strengths.

By connecting drivetrain features to customer needs, dealerships build trust and guide buyers toward the right vehicle.

Common Drivetrain Configurations in Dealerships

  • Sedans/Compacts: Often equipped with front-wheel drive (FWD) because it is lighter, more fuel-efficient, and less expensive to manufacture. For urban drivers who prioritize affordability and simplicity, FWD is often the practical choice.
  • SUVs/Crossovers: Frequently offered with all-wheel drive (AWD), which automatically adjusts power to all four wheels. This makes them attractive to families or commuters who want extra confidence in rain, snow, or uneven road conditions.
  • Pickup Trucks: Typically sold with rear-wheel drive (RWD) as standard, with optional four-wheel drive (4WD) for customers who tow heavy loads or need rugged off-road performance. Dealers can highlight how selectable 4WD enhances versatility.
  • Performance Vehicles: Usually designed with RWD or AWD to maximize handling and acceleration. RWD improves balance and cornering, while AWD offers superior grip for high-powered sports cars.

Explaining these drivetrain patterns in customer-friendly terms helps buyers connect features to their lifestyle, whether they want safety in winter, power for hauling, or speed on the open road.

Drivetrain vs. Powertrain

The terms are often confused but have distinct meanings:

  • Drivetrain: Includes all components that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels.
  • Powertrain: This term encompasses both the engine and the drivetrain, encompassing the entire system that generates and delivers power.

Clear explanations prevent customer confusion during sales or service discussions.

Common Issues with Drivetrains

  • Worn CV or U-Joints: Can cause clicking noises or vibrations.
  • Differential Leaks: Lead to gear wear and noise.
  • Transmission Problems: Affect shifting and overall power delivery.
  • Driveshaft Wear: Causes vibrations at higher speeds.

Customers often don’t fully understand drivetrain issues, so dealership service departments must translate technical problems into clear, trust-building explanations.

Drivetrain Maintenance

Proper care extends drivetrain life and reduces costly repairs. Typical maintenance includes:

  • Checking and replacing transmission fluid.
  • Inspecting and servicing differentials.
  • Maintaining CV boots and joints.
  • Ensuring proper tire matching, especially on AWD/4WD vehicles.

Educating customers on preventative care during sales or service conversations positions the dealership as a trusted advisor.

Drivetrains and Customer Buying Questions

Dealership teams frequently field drivetrain-related questions, such as:

  • “Do I need AWD for winter driving?”
  • “What’s the difference between AWD and 4WD?”
  • “Will a RWD truck handle snow well?”
  • “Which drivetrain gets the best gas mileage?”

Being prepared with clear, simple explanations helps salespeople build credibility and close deals more effectively.

Drivetrains in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids introduces new considerations for drivetrain design.

  • EV Drivetrains: Often simpler, using electric motors directly connected to wheels. Some use dual-motor AWD systems for performance.
  • Hybrid Drivetrains: Combine internal combustion engines with electric motors, offering flexible power delivery.

Dealerships must update training and customer communication to cover these changing technologies.

At Automotive Training Network, we train dealership teams to explain technical concepts, such as drivetrains, in customer-friendly language, thereby boosting trust and closing sales ratios. With over 40 years of experience, ATN makes complex automotive details clear, simple, and effective in the sales process. Contact ATN and learn how we can help.