[sean010101]

From someone who's actually done it.... how does the 2wd handle on snow? The 4wd costs more and uses more gas. But I'm only going to drive on snow a couple of days a year when I take trips north. Is it worth the cost for 4wd? Maybe just a good pair of snow tires on a 2wd would be the way to go?

help!

 

[isketerol]

Good snow tires will make quite a difference in the handling of any vehicle on the snow. Usually manufacturers put on some so-so all-season tires which will handle quite poorly on snow.

On my S-10, I replaced the GoodYear Eagle GA's (garbage tires) with some Uniroyal Snow 'n' Ice TigerPaws (much better tire). They handle much better in the rain, and snow. In fact, I like the handling so much I left them on all year. Contrary to rumour, they have not melted away from summer driving.

I very probably will make a decision to get new shoes for the "E" (when I get it) for the next winter.

Iskie

 

[lillyloopy]

[quote:26c3a40b0d="sean010101"]I'm only going to drive on snow a couple of days a year when I take trips north. Is it worth the cost for 4wd?
help![/quote:26c3a40b0d]

I would not invest in the 4WD for just a couple days a year, if you have abs and traction control, I would not even get snow tires. There are a lot of factors involved in that decision for me.

 

[Alien Element]

There are other things to consider as well. I only get snow here 2 or 3 times a year, but it rains like the tropics here all summer which makes our land a swamp. I can't count how many times the Domino's delivery guys have gotten stuck just trying to turn around to exit our long driveway! So snow is the only 'element' (pun intended) to consider. Beach or camping trips could benefit from 4WD as well. But if these activities or situations aren't likely, the 2WD would probably suit you just fine.

 

[jimr140]

In the last 18 years of having front-wheel drive cars, I've never had a problem. I wanted a front-wheel drive EX with auto, but the dealer only had AWD EX's with auto's. I can't really tell any difference. We've had some pretty good snow this year and to be honest, I don't go driving around in it. I wait until the roads are more or less passable. I don't think AWD is bad, just not a necessity.

Jim R