Comprehensive 4x4 and All-Wheel Drive Vehicle Services
When it comes to maintaining your standard 4-wheel drive (4x4) and all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles, the skilled technicians at Crabapple Automotive possess years of experience and specialized knowledge.
AWD systems operate as full-time 4-wheel-drive setups, where all four wheels receive torque from the engine simultaneously. These intricate systems require unique attention, and we're here to cater to their distinct needs. Below are some of the services we offer:
Alignment
Wheel alignment is a fundamental aspect of vehicle maintenance that entails adjusting the angles of the wheels to match the manufacturer's specifications. This process allows for the proper operation of the suspension and steering systems, reducing tire wear. Our experts excel in this complex procedure, ensuring precision alignment for your vehicle.
Differentials
The differential plays a pivotal role in distributing engine power to the wheels. It enables each wheel to rotate at different speeds, especially crucial during turns. To guarantee that your vehicle's differentials operate flawlessly, regular inspections and servicing are essential.
Driveline
The driveline serves as the vital link between the engine and the wheel axles. It encompasses the powertrain components, excluding the engine and transmission. Any malfunction in the driveline can immobilize your car since it hinders the transfer of energy from the engine to the wheel axles. Therefore, it is imperative to have your car's driveline routinely inspected and serviced.
Hubs, Seals, Studs, & Nuts
Wheel hub motors, or wheel motors, are electric motors integrated into the wheel hub itself, directly driving the wheel. To ensure a safer and smoother ride, it is crucial to replace damaged or worn-out wheel hubs promptly.
Maintaining functioning seals is essential for effective oil and grease sealing, particularly under diverse temperature and environmental conditions. Worn or damaged seals permit contaminants to infiltrate the bearing unit or cause lubricant leakage, leading to premature bearing failure. To safeguard your bearings, it's crucial to replace worn seals with new ones.
Studs are threaded fasteners that secure your truck's wheels to the wheel hub, via the brake disk or drum. If these wheel studs become stripped or damaged, they can pose serious safety risks. For your safety, replace any compromised wheel studs with high-quality replacements promptly.
Wheel nuts or lug nuts are fasteners that secure your vehicle's wheels to the threaded wheel studs on the wheel hub. Worn-out or damaged nuts jeopardize the secure attachment of your wheels to the hub, posing a risk of wheel detachment. To ensure the safe and secure fastening of your truck's wheels, reach out to Crabapple Automotive in Alpharetta, GA today.
Transfer Cases
The transfer case plays a crucial role in the four-wheel drive systems of both 4x4 and AWD vehicles. It receives power from the transmission and transmits it to both the front and rear axles. This transfer of power can be achieved through a set of gears or, in most modern cases, chain-driven mechanisms. The transfer case is connected to the transmission and axles via driveshafts.
Transmissions
Transmission repair is a matter of paramount importance, as the transmission is closely linked to key vehicle components, impacting your overall safety. Our transmission services encompass tasks like filter replacement and fluid draining to prevent transmission damage. If you encounter transmission issues such as shifting problems, slipping, stalling, fluid leakage, or a lit service indicator, it is imperative to schedule an appointment.
Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings reside within the wheel assemblies and enable the wheels to spin freely while being connected to the brake system. Over time, they can wear out, leading to a vibrating suspension and noisy operation while driving. In severe cases, if they fail entirely, your vehicle can become challenging to control and unsafe to drive. The replacement interval for wheel bearings varies, but periodic checks for leaks and wear are crucial.
4x4 FAQs
Is there a difference between four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive?
Both all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) engage all four wheels, but with a twist. AWD uses three differentials (front, rear, and center) for continuous power distribution, making it ideal for everyday driving with improved traction. 4WD typically uses two differentials and can be switched between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes, offering more control for off-road adventures.Are 4x4 vehicles meant just for off-road driving?
While off-roading is their specialty, 4x4s aren't just for outdoor enthusiasts. Their enhanced grip and stability tackle slippery city streets and uneven landscapes with ease, offering peace of mind for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who values dependable performance in diverse conditions.Is running a four-wheel drive expensive?
Four-wheel drive fuel economy and maintenance might seem daunting, but it's a nuanced picture. Frequent off-road adventures and towing will impact costs differently than city commutes. Analyze your driving habits and needs before comparing 4x4 and 2 wheel drive costs.To learn more about our 4x4 services, call us at 770-696-1486 or request a quote by clicking below:
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Discover More About 4x4 Repair Services At Crabapple Automotive in Alpharetta
Transmission Repair Services
Car & Truck Care Services
Alignment Services
what our customers say
I used to live in this area and when I returned to buy a car I was happy to see this shop was still around. They did a pre-sale inspection for me, and were able to work me into their busy day. The cost was $139, and would include up to 3 cars to be inspected. To compare, the Toyota dealer was $160 per car and it's only a visual inspection. This was a great relief to know I could look at multiple cars without paying for each one. They did a thorough inspection and talked me through the whole thing. I was super impressed with their knowledge and dedication to doing a good job. I would trust them with other needs for my vehicle.
Do you remember when mechanics were the good guys? Truly loyal to their craft of automotive wizardry? When was the last time a "service writer" smiled (without deviously licking their chops), and made sustained eye contact with you when entering the facility? In movies they are helpful, honest, and dependable. Although in real life most interactions with the auto repair industry leave one with a sense of wonder, doubt, and the ever present, possible easy deception.... Have you ever encountered a mechanic or shop that told you what you need to do, what you should do and what you should save for? I know it's an easy concept, just think about it for a second..... Automotive enthusiasts aka repair technicians/mechanics know that your vehicle is an investment, not just a transportation device. In transportation safety is always paramount, so why not trust in people who see every vehicle as an extension of the customer (it is your baby after all) and treat it more like a doctor would a patient? With doctors, you make an appointment you walk in, they ask questions, and charge you $150 dollars. Then send you off to the next place for some testing, but you trust them because they have a large building, spotless uniforms and clean floors (dealerships). Why not take your baby/ investment to an automotive Dr. and shamen, who has the equivalent education of an 3 automotive PHD's (owner/ lead tech has ~40 years of successful businesses)! Long story short... I, myself am a mechanic and frequently take my children/ cars to his shop for all repairs. There is no greater remark possible in the auto repair industry than a referral!!! I guess this is mine. Thanks Grey! And remember, diagnostic fees are expected in all industries! You are paying for Dr's visit after all!
