Rear Wheel Drive
A drivetrain configuration where the engine sends power exclusively to the rear axle.
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) is a drivetrain layout where the engine's power is transmitted exclusively to the rear wheels to propel the vehicle. In RWD configurations, the engine is typically mounted longitudinally, sending torque through a transmission, down a driveshaft, and into a rear differential that splits power to the rear drive axles.
RWD offers several handling advantages over front-wheel drive (FWD). By separating the steering wheels (front) from the drive wheels (rear), each tire is only asked to perform one job, improving cornering grip. Additionally, during acceleration, the vehicle's weight transfers to the rear, increasing traction on the drive tires. RWD layouts also allow for a more balanced front-to-rear weight distribution.
Common maintenance tasks for RWD vehicles include servicing the rear differential gear oil, lubricating the driveshaft universal joints (u-joints), and replacing the center support bearing. Symptoms of RWD driveline issues include whining noises from the rear differential, clunking sounds when shifting into gear (bad u-joints), or floorboard vibrations under acceleration.