If you are a new owner of an all-wheel-drive Mazda CX-9, you will have peace of mind when you drive on slippery roads. But how do you turn it on? Let's take a look at how the Mazda CX-9 AWD works below.
There isn't a button for the Mazda CX-9 because it is on all the time. So there is no need to activate it when the road conditions change for the worst. Instead, the AWD system will distribute power as needed to the front and rear wheels where traction is needed.
AWD is a must-have for consumers living in cold regions during the winter season. This article will take a closer look at how the Mazda CX-9 all-wheel-drive system works. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about the Mazda CX-9, so read on!
How does the Mazda CX-9 AWD Work?
The Mazda CX-9 AWD system is on all the time and does not require any activation. The I-Activ all-wheel-drive constantly monitors changing road conditions and distributes power to the front and rear wheels as needed.
This could mean that the car is only in front-wheel drive or distributing power to all four wheels for extreme conditions. The AWD system is perfect for those consumers who live in colder regions that experience a lot of snow and ice.
So how does it do this? The Mazda CX-9 has sensors that constantly monitor wheel speed, steering wheel angle, and yaw rate. These sensors allow the car to know exactly what is happening on the road at all times.
In addition, when you are driving in slippery conditions, the AWD system will automatically adjust the braking force and throttle response to maintain traction and control.
As you can see, the I-Activ is a hands-free all-wheel-drive system that will keep you safe and in control when the roads are slick.
What's the difference between AWD & 4WD?
AWD and 4WD are systems that help with traction and control when driving in slippery conditions.
AWD is a system that is on all the time and does not require any activation. Instead, the car will distribute power to the front and rear wheels as needed.
4WD is a system that requires activation and usually has a button on the dash or a shifter in the car. When you activate 4WD, it will send power to all four wheels. 4WD low is typically used in off-road situations.
When in 4WD low, you can't drive at higher speeds because it will overheat the system. AWD does not have this issue because it always drives at high speeds without any problems.
Are all Mazda CX-9 AWD?
The only trim package with AWD as a standard drivetrain is the CX-9 Signature. In the other trim packages, consumers can choose 2WD or AWD.
2WD is a drivetrain that sends power to only the front two wheels and isn't recommended for slick or icy conditions. However, if you live in a dry region like Texas, 2WD would be a good option.
In addition, 2WD will provide slightly better fuel economy than the AWD drivetrain.
If you live in a colder region or experiencing a lot of snow and ice, we recommend choosing the AWD drivetrain. It will provide better traction and control when driving in these conditions.
Can you drive the 2WD trim in the snow?
You can drive the 2WD trim in light snow conditions. However, you will have a higher chance of getting stuck or in a ditch if the snow is deep.
If you have a 2WD Mazda CX-9 or another vehicle, it is good to get snow tires. Snow tires provide better traction and control than all-season tires when driving in slippery conditions.
What is the difference in fuel economy between 2WD & AWD?
The difference in fuel economy between 2WD and AWD is about 1-2 MPG. So if you are averaging 20 MPG with 2WD, you would get 19 MPG with AWD. Keep in mind that this number will vary depending on the conditions of the road and how you are driving. However, this isn't a huge difference, so it is important to consider what is most important to you when choosing a drivetrain.
If you are more concerned with fuel economy, we recommend going with the 2WD drivetrain. If you are more concerned with traction and control, go with the AWD drivetrain.
AWD gets worse mileage because of the extra weight and drag of the all-wheel-drive components. Since there are more components, the engine has to work harder to turn all four wheels.
AWD isn't working- What could be wrong?
A few things could be wrong if your AWD isn't working. Let's take a look at them below:
Transmission Issues
The transmission plays a significant role in the AWD system. So if there are any issues with the transmission, it will affect the AWD system. So if your AWD isn't working, we recommend bringing your car into a Mazda dealership to have it checked out.
Bad Wheel Speed Sensor
If one of the wheel speed sensors is bad, it will not send the correct information to the AWD system. As a result, the AWD will not work correctly.
Bad Axle
If one of the axles is bad, it will not transfer power to the other axle. This will cause the AWD system not to work properly.
Bad Control Module
The control module is important because it sends signals to the different systems in the car. If it is bad, it can cause problems with the AWD system.
Dirty Reluctor Ring
The reluctor ring is mounted on the crankshaft, and it sends signals to the control module. If it is dirty, it will not send accurate signals to the control module.
Overheated AWD System
If your system is overheated, it could be due to low oil or low transmission fluid. It is essential to have your car checked out if the AWD isn't working to diagnose and fix the issue.
Bad Transfer Case
If the transfer case is bad, it will not send power to the other axle. This will cause the AWD system not to work properly.
AWD problems aren't something you want to ignore. If your AWD light comes on, or if your AWD isn't working correctly, then we recommend bringing your car into a Mazda dealership to have it checked out. We hope this article was helpful in explaining the different drivetrains available on the Mazda CX-9. Thanks for reading!
Can you put snow tires on an AWD?
Yes, you can put snow tires on an AWD. Snow tires provide better traction and control than all-season tires when driving in slippery conditions. It's a common misconception that if your vehicle is AWD, it can drive through any condition. However, this isn't the case.
AWD is great for getting you out of slippery situations, but it's not a replacement for snow tires. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, we recommend putting snow tires on your vehicle. This will give you the best chance of making it through winter without getting stuck.
It is also important to know that AWD doesn't prevent sliding when you hit your brakes. So make sure to use caution when driving in slippery conditions.
When should you use chains?
Chains should be used when you are driving on a snow-covered road. If your tires are slipping, then you should put chains on.
Not all states allow chains on the roads. So before you go out and buy a set of chains, make sure to check with your local Department of Transportation.
Chains are usually put on the rear tires, but they can also be put on the front tires. It is important to know which set of chains to use, so read the instructions that come with them.
Final Thoughts
Overall, if you need an SUV that does well in the snow, the Mazda CX-9 is a great choice. With its I-Activ AWD system, you'll be able to get through slippery conditions with ease. However, if you live in regions that get extremely cold winters, we recommend using snow tires in addition to the AWD system. Thanks for reading!
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