If you’ve ever looked under your car and noticed the front wheels doing most of the work, you’re not alone. Front Wheel Drive — also known as FWD — has become the standard drivetrain setup in the majority of modern passenger cars. But why did automakers move away from rear-wheel systems in favor of FWD? And how does that decision impact your day-to-day driving?
Let’s take a closer look at how front wheel drive became the go-to for car manufacturers — and what that means for you as a vehicle owner in the Federal Way area.
What Is Front Wheel Drive?
Front Wheel Drive means the engine’s power is sent directly to the front wheels of the vehicle. These wheels are responsible for both pulling the car forward and steering it — all while managing road grip and traction.
This setup contrasts with Rear Wheel Drive (RWD), where the engine sends power to the rear wheels, and All-Wheel Drive (AWD), where power is distributed to all four wheels. While RWD is still used in many performance or heavy-duty vehicles, FWD is now the dominant choice for everyday cars — especially sedans, compact SUVs, and minivans.
Why Did Automakers Switch to Front Wheel Drive?
Space and Efficiency
One of the biggest reasons Front Wheel Drive became popular was packaging efficiency. FWD allows for a more compact drivetrain. Since the engine and transmission are located in the same space up front, automakers can save interior room — especially useful in smaller vehicles.
Fuel Economy
FWD systems are lighter than their RWD counterparts. Less drivetrain weight means better fuel efficiency, which became a high priority for manufacturers and consumers alike in the wake of rising fuel costs in the 1970s and beyond.
Manufacturing Costs
The simplicity of FWD design also helps lower production costs. Fewer components (no long driveshaft running to the back of the car) mean fewer materials and a shorter assembly time.
Better Traction in Wet Conditions
Here in the Pacific Northwest, we get our fair share of rain. One advantage of Front Wheel Drive is improved traction in wet or slippery conditions. Since the weight of the engine sits over the front wheels, it helps maintain better grip when accelerating or cornering on wet roads — a real bonus for everyday driving around Federal Way, Tacoma, and Fife.
Is Front Wheel Drive Right for Every Vehicle?
While FWD is a smart choice for most drivers, it’s not ideal in every situation. Performance cars, trucks, and off-road SUVs often use RWD or AWD systems instead. But for daily commuting, running errands, or getting the kids to school in Milton or Edgewood — FWD checks nearly every box.
How to Maintain a Front Wheel Drive Vehicle
Just because a car uses Front Wheel Drive doesn’t mean it’s maintenance-free. In fact, the front end of an FWD car tends to work harder, since it handles both propulsion and steering. That means components like CV joints, axles, and front suspension components can wear down faster.
At Federal Way Automotive, we routinely inspect and service these parts as part of our general maintenance process. Regular oil changes, alignment checks, and drivetrain inspections help keep your FWD car running smoothly for years.
Keep Your Front Wheel Drive Vehicle in Top Shape
Whether you drive a compact commuter or a family minivan, your Front Wheel Drive system plays a big role in your vehicle’s reliability. At Federal Way Automotive, our ASE-Certified technicians are experts at servicing FWD and other drivetrain setups. From CV axle replacements to routine inspections, we make sure your vehicle stays dependable — no matter what the road throws your way.
📅 Ready for service? Schedule your next visit with us today and keep your front wheel drive car running like new.
