I love these kind of videos when he sits down and feels like he’s talking to you one on one. I actually finish the video knowing I’ve learned something new.
Yeh, he's a relaxed calm, smart person.....try to surround yourself with people like him & avoid hyper, loudmouth, drama-queen people who are up themselves & your anxiety will improve tremendously 👍
On the Prius AWD, we have a small electric motor on the rear wheels that provides 10HP and is activated from stop up to around 10 mph then whenever the front wheels spin…works great on icy roads and up icy hills.
I believe it's been covered in several already. There's a second electric motor/generator in the rear and no physical connection to the front. Works great in my Rav4 hybrid in snow and on gravel roads. It also applies brakes to specific wheels to help minimize slipping.
I had to show that to numerous owners that 25 mph limit, because they thought that Toyota has some kind of "high end AWD" in their "cute SUV" segment... No Limited Slip, no central differential... PS: I have a RAV4 too... not a hater, just realist.
This is not right, You should be on Toyota’s payroll for life… no one explains things better than you and it’s clear to understand with details… I really appreciate the time you spend on this channel… Thank you
Scotty Kilmer is our wise old grandfather Toyota loving mechanic and AMD is THE best high school auto mechanics Toyota loving teacher we could ever have. I wish he'd been my auto mechanics teacher back in high school, but super glad we have him now this way! My first video of his was his 3rd gen Prius traction battery cooling fan filter video where he very kindly and thoroughly explained the need and installation. Been watching ever since.
The new Lexus "full time AWD" from what I've read (latest NX and RX, not sure about other models) is very similar to the standard AWD shown in the video, except it simply uses an upgraded magnetic clutch and keeps the rear wheels at least partially driving at all times.
Thanks for this video. Very informative and helpful. 2 years ago my 2013 Venza's coupler was leaking oil and spraying all over the back and into the trunk. I think the bearing was worn out. Dealer quoted me 4000CAD for the coupler and labour. I looked up in ebay and found a reseller from Japan . Paid 800 for the coupler. Fixed the whole thing for $1800 including labour and tax.
If it was spraying or leaking oil it was probably the pinion oil seal. That could be replaced relatively cheaply without replacing the coupler. I've read about some people changing just the bearing too.
It’s possible. I also remember fidgeting with the pressure release cap that sits on top of the differential. It was rusted but definitely not stuck. And judging by the spray pattern i was convinced it was the coupler.
Another great video. You explain it so a non mechanical person can grasp it. As a past wheel/track mechanic in the army i always look forward to you passing on your knowledge. With technology the way the new cars/trucks are it is a great way to keep up from your videos.
I learn so much from this guy. Watching his videos inclines me toward buying Toyota products in the future, I have owned plenty in the past. I am also a Honda fan, currently driving an Acura.
I think he explained details well, but the Toyota system is not as advanced as Honda’s I-VTM4 especially their 2nd generation and similarly with Acura’s SH-AWD.
In my Highlander we tried climbing up a steep gravel lane that was bare gravel (in the sunshine) in the left wheel track and glare ice where the melt water flowed in the right wheel track. This would be enough to challenge most 4x4s and we were surprised that the Highlander went right up there without even spinning a wheel. We even stopped on the grade and started again with no issue. The nicest thing about the system is it doesn't rely on the ABS brakes to stop the spinning wheel, rather just puts the power to the non spinning wheel quietly and smoothly so you are not even aware of what is going on. Can't get it better than that I think.
As a Subaru owner, I've always felt it had a great AWD. I now have a 25 year old JDM Toyota Regius van for a semi-mountainous postal route. On gravel, mud, and washed out steep gravel inclined drives, it has no ill manners. It feels seemless. Wonderful design. And this is the old design!
Excellent video. I have a 2006 Matrix 4WD with 218,000k miles. It has the non-electronic viscous coupler that has been repaired twice: First, the larger VC bearing was replaced at 88k (sounded like a jet engine), second the VC housing was replaced at 193k (the larger steel bearing had worn out it's seat in the aluminum housing, creating play as it rotated). Also, I do a drain and fill every 30k on transmission (Type-IV), transfer case, and rear differential (Mobil 1 75w90 gear oil).
I recently bought my son a Rav4 XLE Hybrid for earning his doctorate in mechanical engineering, and it's such a nice vehicle I'm now thinking about getting one for my wife. It's tough to beat 41 mpg, all-wheel-drive, Toyota Safety Sense, great engineering and reliability all in one package. I'm waiting on a next gen 4Runner for myself.
Great video. I have always considered AWD to be marketing noise because it can mean almost anything. It is great to see what it can mean for the different Toyota configurations.
I saw this when it was fiirst posted. Subsequently we bought a 2018 RX350L with onnly 49k miles. Almost pristine. Japan built . Came back here to review the AWD magic. I llove the function to put a graphh on the display that shows each wheels power output in bar graph mode while driving. Thank God for auto braking lol. Also gotta say I also love my 2011 Tacoma. Super secure in 4wd driving up to our Wv mountain land. Even towing our pop up camper up and down steep logging road access. Thanks AMD!
Can you please show us how to differentiate the regular AWD system and the torque vectoring system when we see under the car? The last example is the regular AWD system? Thanks in advance for all this videos.
As a Toyota AWD C-HR 1.2T owner, i can tell the same: 1. Never tow it with spinning wheels 2. Always change all 4 tires, when their done (dont forget to shuffle them around every year, so they wear equally) 3. If a tire rips beyond repair,, then change them as a pair, because they dont war equally 4. Change the DIF oil every 60.000km So you will have a lot of fun an lots of good kilometers with your Toyota AWD.
I absolutely love this series. Just how the background is set with the lighting and have the actual equipment right on the table, and speaking to us like it’s a one on one Will you ever do a video of how simply set the background and the lighting? Maybe even as a shorts?
You’re one of the most knowledgeable techs that I would even begin to listen to here on RUclips. Your content is factual, and based on actual experience rather than theory. I can appreciate the time and candor that Troy put into a video for us viewers and other mechanics who need this type of information! Thank you greatly!
My 5th Gen RAV4 is pretty great in the snow. I got stuck once because I bottomed it out and the snow froze. That was totally my fault though, I'm still learning this winter stuff.
Excellent. Watched tons of your videos now - I am one of those people who used to say 'I know nothing about cars'. Well, not any more thanks to you. Thank you for your time and talent.
So glad I watched this vid, recently purchased a used Lexus GS 350 AWD and didn’t know about the towing…I’ve always been particular about my cars only using a flatbed, but good to know a sling tow is NOT an option at all if ever needed.
These are the BEST videos, IMHO (how components work). I never knew that towing an AWD vehicle with wheels on the ground will damage the drive train. This is also true with Toyota Hybrids without AWD. On Hybrids, you can generate electricity if towing with the front tires on the ground and potentially start a fire.
Thank you for this video. I appreciate your balance of the technical talk. It's not so deep, that I fall asleep, its not so simple, that I don't learn.
Always enjoy your videos, and have found them to be very helpful in keeping my wife’s 2014 Sienna AWD on the road. I’m going to add a comment to this video in particular in the chance it may help another Sienna owner in the future. At approximately 110k miles her van started making a very high pitched whining noise from the rear end of the vehicle. I checked both rear hubs and they were fine, so I did some looking online and found a description of the problem that appeared to match the one I was experiencing. It had to do with the bearings in the AWD coupler you mentioned in your video. I know the internet can be a place where issues can seem to take on a life of their own, but looking through the various posts and videos this NOISE did not seem to be that uncommon of an issue on Sienna’s. As you mentioned the coupler itself can be replaced as an assembly but after seeing the price for the OEM part I decided to go the route of replacing the bearings, seal and dust ring. The parts were available for well under $200, and since I used to turn wrenches for a living a long time ago I figured I had little to loose other than some time and possibly some money making the fix vs replacing. There’s a couple of videos out there showing the process, so I watched them and then tackled the one on my wife’s van. This is NOT something I’d recommend for those who aren’t mechanically inclined, but it also wasn’t something where you needed to be a master technician to accomplish. Made the repair about 50k ago and am happy to report the noise immediately went away and my wallet was very thankful I took the chance at making the repair. Just thought I’d throw this out there for anyone who’s so inclined to repair the coupler themselves. Again, thanks for all your videos and sharing your tremendous knowledge with Toyota products.
The only negative thing I can say about this and other videos on this site is that I don't get a college credit for watching them. Simply speaking I learn more from watching The Car Care Nut videos than I learned from taking college courses!
Because of You Sir and other Social Media Specialists, I purchased a 23' GX at a great discount and feel Secure/Safe . Reliability plays a huge role IMO in these times of uncertainty. Newest tech on transportation does Not fit well for me until most kinks are fixed which can take many years. Again Thanks for your knowledge . PS.... Wish you had a Shop in Southern NJ😂
@AmbientRoadways you won't find one. Lexus never bothered with marketing the AWD system. In principle, it is quite close to the Lexus GX 460 or even the Subaru WRX with the CVT automatic transmission; a full time AWD system with a planetary gearset that has a nominal rear bias (30 front & 70 rear IIRC) but a locking limited slip device can push it to a full 50:50 when fully locked up.
@8:02 we definitely could have had that talk long back when I put myself in trouble doing that on my Rav4 🤦♂️ I trade in the Rav4 and got myself a 4Runner. I'm glad now whether my foot on gas or not, whether I'm doing 10mph or 100mph when I'm in 4H, I'm in 4WD. Absolutely loving this tank in snow.
Speaking of 4runners, can you please do a detailed video on 4runner and GX full time 4wd system. When I look at my drive shaft on my 4runner I see both spinning all the time. Can you explain how the power distribute front and back? Maybe even talk about 4th Gen 4runner V6 that has center diff but still has 2H, the multimode 4wd system?
You said AWD is done in two ways, and this is the car version. Would love to see the chassis on frame version. I've had my RHD 3.0L diesel 95 series Land Cruiser since 2001 that came with "Full Time AWD" and have heard many times the mechanic say there is no viscous coupling, so learning about the magic that has prevented me ever getting bogged would be awesome.
Interesting video. We previously had a 10' RX350 AWD. Previous owner replaced thr transfer case, for what reason we'll never know. When we got it the passenger output seal leaked. New seals and a new axle never solved it. Which led me to assume maybe the t-case was replaced due to this issue and the problem returned, and they dumped it and then i was the lucky new owner of the problem. We never did figure it out and at this point doesnt matter I guess, but still perplexed me and many techs. Ended up dumping it ourselves to Caravana, and then followed the vin. It ended up at auction and shipped to Ukraine of all places.
Nice clear explanation. Re. towing, assuming electromagnet would not be powered, then clutch would not be engaged with differential. So clutch should not get hot...
Forester ironically has identical AWD design. The only difference is Subaru used a better software to help transferring torque more aggressively. Most AWD cars on the road have very similar layout, the only differences are in the software.
@@valdius85 They are both open differential front and back with a coupler in the middle so they are mechanically the same. The only difference like I said is the software which Subaru does very well. Nothing wrong with this approach. If it works then it works.
@@jasonsong86 I agree. From what I’ve read from mechanics, the wet clutch in Subaru is prepared to work “all the time”. I mean there is much more effort to actively cool it down. Honestly, at least in Japan, Forester was 30% cheaper than Rav4. Rav4 comes with a CVT in Japan as well, so the choice was obvious. I am happy with my choice. It makes no sense for me to spend money on a better AWD. I just need it to be proactive - meaning be on before the slip happens. The biggest gripe I have with Toyota “ordinary AWD” is that it is rather reactive. Meaning the slip will often happen. I’ve experienced that in the past and I do not like that feeling when I’m driving. Japan has some challenges - rain, mud, slopes etc. So having a proactive AWD is simply comfortable.
@@valdius85there are many reasons why Toyota decided to program their software more reactive than proactive like on the Subarus. However, more engagement means more wear and Toyota is to build reliable vehicles not capable vehicles. Subaru will be more capable but it will not be as reliable as Toyota.
The AWD 4Runners just have a center differential that is lockable. By having a center differential, you don't need to worry about front and rear axle speed difference anymore. The only drawback is it's always sending power front to back which causes drivetrain drag and reduce fuel economy. It is however a better system because it is a full time AWD system meaning it always send torque to all wheels regardless speed. Most car AWD systems are "part time" meaning it will disengage above certain speeds to have less drive train drag to better fuel economy.
Older Toyotas had actual center differentials, thus they had the tag "full time 4wd", a little less efficient but very solid to drive... i have a corolla ae110 with full time 4wd, it's like driving an under powered but reliable sports saloon, more stable at highway speed, literally skips over mud, wet weather means nothing, and a little bit more ground clearance.
What Toyota & Lexus models are equipped with a 'torque-vectoring AWD system'? By the way, what a kind man you are, making such an informative lecture available for us! Thank you.
Thank for you for the informative video on Toyota AWD system. I really appreciate you sharing your knowledge as a more informed and better educated consumer prevents those crooked mechanics from taking advatange of us hard working folks. We are willing to pay, if we know we are NOT being taken advantage of. Honesty and integrity from mechanics is priceless and you are one of these dying breed of mechanics. Keep these videos coming, I feel like you are a mechanic professor and this is how you make this world a better place by making these videos!
Depending where you go, ground clearance might be a limiting factor. You should be fine on the main roads if there is no fresh snow. Snow storms are common in Japanese snowy areas and if it winds, the corolla might bottom out. Especially on a sightseeing trip I assume the goal to is to see the scenery and more remote places.
The rear axle on a hybrid is an e-axle (electric motor operated), there’s no mechanical connection to engine and rear wheels. When needed the rear axle engages by the battery via inverter to send power to it. It can also reverse polarity during regenerative braking and operate as a generator to recapture energy to the battery like the front motor (and the motor that starts the engine).
Thank you Amd. I always wanted to learn how the awd system works. Thought of converting an older Corolla to awd but cost prohibitive and with rear disc like the Matrix or Vibe.
Excellent presentation. Thank you. Was hoping you would mention and discuss the hybrid and Prime versions of AWD as well. I know that there is just an electric motor in the back but some under-car pictures of it and a comparison would be great. Probably more of this version being made now that the hardware version? Most folks probably don't even know the difference.
You make difficult topics so easy to understand and your knowledge is impressive. How many mechanics in this country know what "time domain multiplexing is?"
Thanks! I've always wondered how my AWD 2016 Lexus RX operates. Great breakdown and tips! Glad I went with LEXUS genius simplicity, quality and dependability . . .
Great video their car care nut , now it is time to put out a video on the Hybrid Rav 4 all-wheel drive electric motor in the back can you tell us how that works .
The rear axle on a hybrid is an e-axle (electric motor operated), there’s no mechanical connection to engine and rear wheels. When needed the rear axle engages by the battery via inverter to send power to it. It can also reverse polarity during regenerative braking and operate as a generator to recapture energy to the battery like the front motor (and the motor that starts the engine).
Excellent video from AMD as usual (explaining the mechanical operation of the AWD systen). A few more comments would have been appreciated. - what is owner's maintenance responsibilites of the AWD (eg, gear oil change at X miles)? What is the expected life of the car's AWD system? - How effective is Toyota/Lexus' AWD in real world driving conditions? In normal driving conditions (AWD Lock Off/TCS On), if front wheels slip, how fast do the rear wheels get power? - If the towing service damages any of the AWD components (or any part of the car for that matter), is the towing service responsible for $damages? - Should one still buy an AWD car for the 0.001% of total drive time the front wheels slip say when a street light turns green and the road is slippery wet; when rarely stuck in mud, etc? Thanks AMD!
With this system you mentioned do not put different size tires side to side which makes sense. How about 2 new tires on the rear and 2 half worn tires on the front. I could not afford 4 new tires all at once but also don't want to destroy my AWD system. Thanks, Chris
I love these kind of videos when he sits down and feels like he’s talking to you one on one. I actually finish the video knowing I’ve learned something new.
He's talking to me one on one, not you.
It's so intimate *blush*
Talk to me all intimate, Toyotasenpai
Is there a video on the hybrid AWDi?
I suffer badly from anxiety and watching this guy takes me away from my troubles and all the troubles of the world.Thankyou.
Yeh, he's a relaxed calm, smart person.....try to surround yourself with people like him & avoid hyper, loudmouth, drama-queen people who are up themselves & your anxiety will improve tremendously 👍
@@mrgarrison3516man that sounds great! Where do I find people like that?!?! 😮 😂
@@steved0603
Until u find those people, become like those people & they might find u 👍
Thanks for the very educational video! Could you do a similar video on the AWD system in the newer Hybrids?
On the Prius AWD, we have a small electric motor on the rear wheels that provides 10HP and is activated from stop up to around 10 mph then whenever the front wheels spin…works great on icy roads and up icy hills.
You don't seem to know much about Toyota and Lexus 4WD.
I believe it's been covered in several already. There's a second electric motor/generator in the rear and no physical connection to the front. Works great in my Rav4 hybrid in snow and on gravel roads. It also applies brakes to specific wheels to help minimize slipping.
@@billking13😂😅🤣
Excellent video on unitized awd systems. Most people don't realize that they decouple at 25 mph.
Do they still do that? I thought they stopped that with the newer ones?
Ditto
I had to show that to numerous owners that 25 mph limit, because they thought that Toyota has some kind of "high end AWD" in their "cute SUV" segment...
No Limited Slip, no central differential...
PS: I have a RAV4 too... not a hater, just realist.
i heard about that i had a coworker who had a 4x4 toyota FJ Cruiser and said it goes away after 25mph
Not all of them decouple. The earlier Sienna and Highlander systems are on all the time.
This is not right, You should be on Toyota’s payroll for life… no one explains things better than you and it’s clear to understand with details… I really appreciate the time you spend on this channel… Thank you
Scotty Kilmer is our wise old grandfather Toyota loving mechanic and AMD is THE best high school auto mechanics Toyota loving teacher we could ever have. I wish he'd been my auto mechanics teacher back in high school, but super glad we have him now this way! My first video of his was his 3rd gen Prius traction battery cooling fan filter video where he very kindly and thoroughly explained the need and installation. Been watching ever since.
Honestly I don't think the average buyer cares much about how things work. Cheap and reliable is good.
I think the average customer will be interested in Toyota after seeing these videos and learning how reliable Toyota and Lexus
The new Lexus "full time AWD" from what I've read (latest NX and RX, not sure about other models) is very similar to the standard AWD shown in the video, except it simply uses an upgraded magnetic clutch and keeps the rear wheels at least partially driving at all times.
Too bad they can't have the old school center differential for 50/50 full time awd
Thanks for this video. Very informative and helpful.
2 years ago my 2013 Venza's coupler was leaking oil and spraying all over the back and into the trunk. I think the bearing was worn out. Dealer quoted me 4000CAD for the coupler and labour. I looked up in ebay and found a reseller from Japan . Paid 800 for the coupler. Fixed the whole thing for $1800 including labour and tax.
If it was spraying or leaking oil it was probably the pinion oil seal. That could be replaced relatively cheaply without replacing the coupler. I've read about some people changing just the bearing too.
It’s possible. I also remember fidgeting with the pressure release cap that sits on top of the differential. It was rusted but definitely not stuck. And judging by the spray pattern i was convinced it was the coupler.
Love that style, the way he talks, informal , calm and pure
Another great video. You explain it so a non mechanical person can grasp it. As a past wheel/track mechanic in the army i always look forward to you passing on your knowledge. With technology the way the new cars/trucks are it is a great way to keep up from your videos.
I learn so much from this guy. Watching his videos inclines me toward buying Toyota products in the future, I have owned plenty in the past. I am also a Honda fan, currently driving an Acura.
I think he explained details well, but the Toyota system is not as advanced as Honda’s I-VTM4 especially their 2nd generation and similarly with Acura’s SH-AWD.
AMD, Thanks! You have answered questions about Toyota AWD systems that I did not even know I had. 🤩
You couldnt possibly have watched the entire video within 2 minutes of the video being posted to have all your "questions answered".
In my Highlander we tried climbing up a steep gravel lane that was bare gravel (in the sunshine) in the left wheel track and glare ice where the melt water flowed in the right wheel track. This would be enough to challenge most 4x4s and we were surprised that the Highlander went right up there without even spinning a wheel. We even stopped on the grade and started again with no issue. The nicest thing about the system is it doesn't rely on the ABS brakes to stop the spinning wheel, rather just puts the power to the non spinning wheel quietly and smoothly so you are not even aware of what is going on. Can't get it better than that I think.
As a Subaru owner, I've always felt it had a great AWD. I now have a 25 year old JDM Toyota Regius van for a semi-mountainous postal route. On gravel, mud, and washed out steep gravel inclined drives, it has no ill manners. It feels seemless. Wonderful design. And this is the old design!
Excellent video. I have a 2006 Matrix 4WD with 218,000k miles. It has the non-electronic viscous coupler that has been repaired twice: First, the larger VC bearing was replaced at 88k (sounded like a jet engine), second the VC housing was replaced at 193k (the larger steel bearing had worn out it's seat in the aluminum housing, creating play as it rotated). Also, I do a drain and fill every 30k on transmission (Type-IV), transfer case, and rear differential (Mobil 1 75w90 gear oil).
Thank you for an excellent explanation of all wheel drive, that was easy for a regular person with very little mechanical knowledge to comprehend.
When he sits down, it’s serious 😂
Will you be doing a similar video on the 4WD, like a Land Cruiser? Thanks for you excellent videos
I recently bought my son a Rav4 XLE Hybrid for earning his doctorate in mechanical engineering, and it's such a nice vehicle I'm now thinking about getting one for my wife. It's tough to beat 41 mpg, all-wheel-drive, Toyota Safety Sense, great engineering and reliability all in one package. I'm waiting on a next gen 4Runner for myself.
Great video. I have always considered AWD to be marketing noise because it can mean almost anything. It is great to see what it can mean for the different Toyota configurations.
I saw this when it was fiirst posted. Subsequently we bought a 2018 RX350L with onnly 49k miles. Almost pristine. Japan built . Came back here to review the AWD magic. I llove the function to put a graphh on the display that shows each wheels power output in bar graph mode while driving. Thank God for auto braking lol. Also gotta say I also love my 2011 Tacoma. Super secure in 4wd driving up to our Wv mountain land. Even towing our pop up camper up and down steep logging road access. Thanks AMD!
Can you please show us how to differentiate the regular AWD system and the torque vectoring system when we see under the car? The last example is the regular AWD system? Thanks in advance for all this videos.
Good question, I would also like to know.
As a Toyota AWD C-HR 1.2T owner, i can tell the same:
1. Never tow it with spinning wheels
2. Always change all 4 tires, when their done (dont forget to shuffle them around every year, so they wear equally)
3. If a tire rips beyond repair,, then change them as a pair, because they dont war equally
4. Change the DIF oil every 60.000km
So you will have a lot of fun an lots of good kilometers with your Toyota AWD.
I absolutely love this series. Just how the background is set with the lighting and have the actual equipment right on the table, and speaking to us like it’s a one on one
Will you ever do a video of how simply set the background and the lighting? Maybe even as a shorts?
You’re one of the most knowledgeable techs that I would even begin to listen to here on RUclips. Your content is factual, and based on actual experience rather than theory. I can appreciate the time and candor that Troy put into a video for us viewers and other mechanics who need this type of information! Thank you greatly!
We have another winner! Quality expert advice everyone loves.
My 5th Gen RAV4 is pretty great in the snow. I got stuck once because I bottomed it out and the snow froze. That was totally my fault though, I'm still learning this winter stuff.
Thanks for today's lesson.Verry interesting !
Excellent. Watched tons of your videos now - I am one of those people who used to say 'I know nothing about cars'. Well, not any more thanks to you. Thank you for your time and talent.
I can't get enough of this channel!
So glad I watched this vid, recently purchased a used Lexus GS 350 AWD and didn’t know about the towing…I’ve always been particular about my cars only using a flatbed, but good to know a sling tow is NOT an option at all if ever needed.
I've heard about torque vectoring for about a year. I think I finally understand it with this video. Thank you!
I intentionally bought a non-AWD 2015 RAV4 because I didn't want that rear diff running when it wasn't needed....Learned something today. Thanks.
You’ll save on tires too because on AWD systems all the tires have to match.
Having a 20yrs experience In mechanical engineering
Wow that's not Easy ❤❤
Thank you, this has been amazing to watch!!!!!!
These are the BEST videos, IMHO (how components work). I never knew that towing an AWD vehicle with wheels on the ground will damage the drive train. This is also true with Toyota Hybrids without AWD. On Hybrids, you can generate electricity if towing with the front tires on the ground and potentially start a fire.
I don't understand wheels on the ground.
How is the trailer going to move if it has no wheels on it.
@@Mr-pn2eh what he means is if you are getting your car towed. Not to have the wheels on the ground of you ruin your car's awd system
@@Mr-pn2eh Put it on a flatbed truck or put a dolly under all wheels.
Thank you for this video. I appreciate your balance of the technical talk. It's not so deep, that I fall asleep, its not so simple, that I don't learn.
This is so helpful in understanding my car's engine and the capabilities. Thank you so much!
Always enjoy your videos, and have found them to be very helpful in keeping my wife’s 2014 Sienna AWD on the road. I’m going to add a comment to this video in particular in the chance it may help another Sienna owner in the future. At approximately 110k miles her van started making a very high pitched whining noise from the rear end of the vehicle. I checked both rear hubs and they were fine, so I did some looking online and found a description of the problem that appeared to match the one I was experiencing. It had to do with the bearings in the AWD coupler you mentioned in your video.
I know the internet can be a place where issues can seem to take on a life of their own, but looking through the various posts and videos this NOISE did not seem to be that uncommon of an issue on Sienna’s. As you mentioned the coupler itself can be replaced as an assembly but after seeing the price for the OEM part I decided to go the route of replacing the bearings, seal and dust ring. The parts were available for well under $200, and since I used to turn wrenches for a living a long time ago I figured I had little to loose other than some time and possibly some money making the fix vs replacing. There’s a couple of videos out there showing the process, so I watched them and then tackled the one on my wife’s van. This is NOT something I’d recommend for those who aren’t mechanically inclined, but it also wasn’t something where you needed to be a master technician to accomplish. Made the repair about 50k ago and am happy to report the noise immediately went away and my wallet was very thankful I took the chance at making the repair. Just thought I’d throw this out there for anyone who’s so inclined to repair the coupler themselves.
Again, thanks for all your videos and sharing your tremendous knowledge with Toyota products.
Love videos very informative, watching it from Sydney Australia.
The only negative thing I can say about this and other videos on this site is that I don't get a college credit for watching them. Simply speaking I learn more from watching The Car Care Nut videos than I learned from taking college courses!
Thanks!
Thanks
Awesome video, did not know about the towing issues with all wheel drive vehicles
Thanks 🙏
Because of You Sir and other Social Media Specialists, I purchased a 23' GX at a great discount and feel Secure/Safe . Reliability plays a huge role IMO in these times of uncertainty.
Newest tech on transportation does Not fit well for me until most kinks are fixed which can take many years.
Again Thanks for your knowledge .
PS.... Wish you had a Shop in Southern NJ😂
AMD, you are genius at explaining the genius of Toyota engineering! You are truly a great teacher. Sincerely, a Principal from Canada ❤
Truly one of the most intelligent descriptions of how this Magic works....
I’m driving right now and this is therapy just listening to this guy. And I drive a Lexus is350F
Thank You CCN. Love your vids. I can view them to the end cause you explain things properly.
Great video! I have 2IS AWD, 3IS AWD, GS350 AWD, Sienna AWD, & Tundra 4WD. The Lexus is setup is different but you've cover that in other videos.
I am looking for that video (how 2IS and 3IS awd system works), can you please share it?
@AmbientRoadways you won't find one. Lexus never bothered with marketing the AWD system. In principle, it is quite close to the Lexus GX 460 or even the Subaru WRX with the CVT automatic transmission; a full time AWD system with a planetary gearset that has a nominal rear bias (30 front & 70 rear IIRC) but a locking limited slip device can push it to a full 50:50 when fully locked up.
@8:02 we definitely could have had that talk long back when I put myself in trouble doing that on my Rav4 🤦♂️ I trade in the Rav4 and got myself a 4Runner. I'm glad now whether my foot on gas or not, whether I'm doing 10mph or 100mph when I'm in 4H, I'm in 4WD. Absolutely loving this tank in snow.
Speaking of 4runners, can you please do a detailed video on 4runner and GX full time 4wd system. When I look at my drive shaft on my 4runner I see both spinning all the time. Can you explain how the power distribute front and back? Maybe even talk about 4th Gen 4runner V6 that has center diff but still has 2H, the multimode 4wd system?
Another educational video, Thanks AMD!
Excellent commentary, love the educational value in all your videos.
Many thanks for informative video 👍can we have similar video about latest rav4 hybrid i AWD system?
love to see a video on the current Rav4 hybrid AWD system.
Great video AMD. Can you explain how the AWD works on the new 2023 Prius!
Another Excellent Video. Waiting for the next one.
You said AWD is done in two ways, and this is the car version. Would love to see the chassis on frame version. I've had my RHD 3.0L diesel 95 series Land Cruiser since 2001 that came with "Full Time AWD" and have heard many times the mechanic say there is no viscous coupling, so learning about the magic that has prevented me ever getting bogged would be awesome.
always learning something new from AMD, yet another super informative video, keep up the great work!
This guy is a wealth of knowledge ! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us !!
Interesting video. We previously had a 10' RX350 AWD. Previous owner replaced thr transfer case, for what reason we'll never know. When we got it the passenger output seal leaked. New seals and a new axle never solved it. Which led me to assume maybe the t-case was replaced due to this issue and the problem returned, and they dumped it and then i was the lucky new owner of the problem. We never did figure it out and at this point doesnt matter I guess, but still perplexed me and many techs. Ended up dumping it ourselves to Caravana, and then followed the vin. It ended up at auction and shipped to Ukraine of all places.
Nice clear explanation. Re. towing, assuming electromagnet would not be powered, then clutch would not be engaged with differential. So clutch should not get hot...
Thank you very much for the clearly spoken and basic Understandable instruction on Toyota Oil changes and Torque Vectoring .VG
That thinking from T was one of the main reasons we went with the Forester.
F has its downsides, but AWD is actually on when I need them to be.
Forester ironically has identical AWD design. The only difference is Subaru used a better software to help transferring torque more aggressively. Most AWD cars on the road have very similar layout, the only differences are in the software.
@@jasonsong86
In what sens do you see these two similar?
Just because there is a clutch doesn’t make these two systems similar.
@@valdius85 They are both open differential front and back with a coupler in the middle so they are mechanically the same. The only difference like I said is the software which Subaru does very well. Nothing wrong with this approach. If it works then it works.
@@jasonsong86
I agree.
From what I’ve read from mechanics, the wet clutch in Subaru is prepared to work “all the time”. I mean there is much more effort to actively cool it down.
Honestly, at least in Japan, Forester was 30% cheaper than Rav4. Rav4 comes with a CVT in Japan as well, so the choice was obvious.
I am happy with my choice. It makes no sense for me to spend money on a better AWD. I just need it to be proactive - meaning be on before the slip happens.
The biggest gripe I have with Toyota “ordinary AWD” is that it is rather reactive. Meaning the slip will often happen. I’ve experienced that in the past and I do not like that feeling when I’m driving.
Japan has some challenges - rain, mud, slopes etc. So having a proactive AWD is simply comfortable.
@@valdius85there are many reasons why Toyota decided to program their software more reactive than proactive like on the Subarus. However, more engagement means more wear and Toyota is to build reliable vehicles not capable vehicles. Subaru will be more capable but it will not be as reliable as Toyota.
It would be nice if you did a video like this but for the V8 model 4runners that are AWD also, love the video's keep up the awsome content.
The AWD 4Runners just have a center differential that is lockable. By having a center differential, you don't need to worry about front and rear axle speed difference anymore. The only drawback is it's always sending power front to back which causes drivetrain drag and reduce fuel economy. It is however a better system because it is a full time AWD system meaning it always send torque to all wheels regardless speed. Most car AWD systems are "part time" meaning it will disengage above certain speeds to have less drive train drag to better fuel economy.
Older Toyotas had actual center differentials, thus they had the tag "full time 4wd", a little less efficient but very solid to drive... i have a corolla ae110 with full time 4wd, it's like driving an under powered but reliable sports saloon, more stable at highway speed, literally skips over mud, wet weather means nothing, and a little bit more ground clearance.
Best explanation I’ve seen! 🏆🏆
What Toyota & Lexus models are equipped with a 'torque-vectoring AWD system'? By the way, what a kind man you are, making such an informative lecture available for us! Thank you.
Google can tell you easily.
Now do one on part time vs full time 4WD on the 4R vs LC
Thank for you for the informative video on Toyota AWD system.
I really appreciate you sharing your knowledge as a more informed and better educated consumer prevents those crooked mechanics from taking advatange of us hard working folks.
We are willing to pay, if we know we are NOT being taken advantage of.
Honesty and integrity from mechanics is priceless and you are one of these dying breed of mechanics.
Keep these videos coming, I feel like you are a mechanic professor and this is how you make this world a better place by making these videos!
Great video AMD!
RAV4 adventure has rear “true “ torque vectoring. Sport mode in RAV4 gives 10% power to rear when engaged with sport button.
Thank you AMD! I never heard the AWD system explained before.
Wow! Even though I don't have Rav4 at least I have knowledge how this AWD works and the do and don't! Thank you so much.
Very interesting information. Thanks.
This guy is amazing, Thank you Car Car Nut Channel, keep up the good work.
Can confirm that Toyota's AWD works well. Rented the worlds fastest car (Awd Yaris(non GR)) for a trip around Hokkaido in Winter.
Depending where you go, ground clearance might be a limiting factor.
You should be fine on the main roads if there is no fresh snow.
Snow storms are common in Japanese snowy areas and if it winds, the corolla might bottom out. Especially on a sightseeing trip I assume the goal to is to see the scenery and more remote places.
I learn so much from watching your channel. Thank you!!!!
Excellent video. thank you for creating it!
Thanks for the cool info. My curiosity now is where does the hybrid parts intersect? The electric motor stuff.
The rear axle on a hybrid is an e-axle (electric motor operated), there’s no mechanical connection to engine and rear wheels. When needed the rear axle engages by the battery via inverter to send power to it. It can also reverse polarity during regenerative braking and operate as a generator to recapture energy to the battery like the front motor (and the motor that starts the engine).
Thank you Amd. I always wanted to learn how the awd system works. Thought of converting an older Corolla to awd but cost prohibitive and with rear disc like the Matrix or Vibe.
Very good explanation for a neophyte as I am. Interesting system.
I can’t wait to crawl under my wife’s 2015 Venza and take a good look at this system. Thanks for this phenomenal video!
Just make sure she knows you're under it. Don't need to see you on the 5 o'clock news.
You're videos. Just keep getting better and the lighting as well. Excellent 👍
Great video
I’m curious on the hybird all wheel drive system.
Excellent presentation. Thank you. Was hoping you would mention and discuss the hybrid and Prime versions of AWD as well. I know that there is just an electric motor in the back but some under-car pictures of it and a comparison would be great. Probably more of this version being made now that the hardware version? Most folks probably don't even know the difference.
Totally agree - would like to see a discussion of the latest hybrid system.
Easy and simple to understand. Thank you
Thank you for very good information
Great video 👍
You make difficult topics so easy to understand and your knowledge is impressive. How many mechanics in this country know what "time domain multiplexing is?"
Thanks! I've always wondered how my AWD 2016 Lexus RX operates. Great breakdown and tips! Glad I went with LEXUS genius simplicity, quality and dependability . . .
AMD does AWD! Very nice video with excellent explanations. Super interesting. Thanks.
Great video their car care nut , now it is time to put out a video on the Hybrid Rav 4 all-wheel drive electric motor in the back can you tell us how that works .
The rear axle on a hybrid is an e-axle (electric motor operated), there’s no mechanical connection to engine and rear wheels. When needed the rear axle engages by the battery via inverter to send power to it. It can also reverse polarity during regenerative braking and operate as a generator to recapture energy to the battery like the front motor (and the motor that starts the engine).
Another great video thank you. Learnt a lot
I have a 2015 RAV4, learned plenty, thank you.
Excellent!
I always learn something with your great videos. Thank you! May be add trick about removing rear diff stick air breather (press fit. Rav4 2015)
Excellent video from AMD as usual (explaining the mechanical operation of the AWD systen). A few more comments would have been appreciated.
- what is owner's maintenance responsibilites of the AWD (eg, gear oil change at X miles)? What is the expected life of the car's AWD system?
- How effective is Toyota/Lexus' AWD in real world driving conditions? In normal driving conditions (AWD Lock Off/TCS On), if front wheels slip, how fast do the rear wheels get power?
- If the towing service damages any of the AWD components (or any part of the car for that matter), is the towing service responsible for $damages?
- Should one still buy an AWD car for the 0.001% of total drive time the front wheels slip say when a street light turns green and the road is slippery wet; when rarely stuck in mud, etc?
Thanks AMD!
Great contribution to the society for a better, safter living.
WOW. such a really cool video. Really do love your work.
With this system you mentioned do not put different size tires side to side which makes sense. How about 2 new tires on the rear and 2 half worn tires on the front. I could not afford 4 new tires all at once but also don't want to destroy my AWD system. Thanks, Chris