Is it bad to always drive in AWD?
AWD and 4WD drive systems can add hundreds of pounds to a car’s curb weight, and that extra bulk can have a big impact on fuel economy. That’s because an engine has to work harder to move a heavier car, which means more fuel is used to move an AWD car the same distance as one with 2WD. So say your front tires start to hydroplane, in a fwd car your tires would spin and the car would slow down. In a good awd or 4wd car, the rear tires will still have traction and effectively continue to push the front tires on top of the wake of the water effectively causing you to hydroplane more.
What are the disadvantages of AWD?
No AWD system will help if there’s no traction whatsoever. Another disadvantage of AWD vehicles is that they add more complexity to the powertrain, which can increase maintenance costs. As mentioned, it can also claim valuable cabin space to make room for the driveshaft. AWD vehicles can help you get out of snowed-in parking spots, tackle unplowed roads and accelerate on slick surfaces. But without winter tires, they’re not nearly as capable as they can be. AWD does little to aid turning and braking on snow and ice vs.