AWD Archives - Import Car
Mercedes 4MATIC Diagnostics

The Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC all-wheel drive (AWD) systems have been around for a while now.

Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC Sytsems and Service

4MATIC, as we know it, came on the market with the 1998 model year on the E-Class and M-Class SUV. In the past 20 years, 4MATIC has become an option on every vehicle Mercedes-Benz sells. The current generation of the 4MATIC system is mechanically bulletproof. But, what can go wrong are the electronics that manage the system, and the seals that keep the fluids inside the transfer case and differentials.

Mercedes-Benz 4Matic Problems

4MATIC is constantly evolving. Here are some of the most common issues with it.

Happy Birthday Audi Quattro!

The Audi Quattro system celebrates its 40th birthday this month.

VIDEO: Maintenance Checklist For AWD Vehicles

Andrew Markel discusses all-wheel drive vehicles, and the items that should be inspected as part of a recurring maintenance regimen. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.

awd maintenance video featured
EPC Light On And AWD Does Not Work: Audi TT And A3

On the models listed, the all-wheel-drive does not work or the EPC warning light is illuminated. The technician will find there is an internal leak in the hydraulic pump.

Volvo AWD With Active On Demand Coupling

One of the first problems we saw in Volvo’s early cars was a failure of the coupling sleeve between the transmission and the angle gear, which sends power to the rear wheel, says Import Specialist ­Contributor Bob Howlett, who takes a look at Volvo AWD with Active On Demand units.