Hydroplaning can be very dangerous, and just because you have all-wheel drive, it doesn’t mean you’re safe from it. Here’s what you need to know.
All-wheel drive is a useful feature on a great number of cars at all price points – some AWD’s are under $10,000, — but it’s sometimes touted as the solution to all traction-related driving problems, and that couldn’t be further from the truth. When all four wheels are receiving power, it can absolutely help in staying connected to the road surface, but it’s by no means the entire equation. Hydroplaning, as you may know, is when a thin layer of fluid (rainwater, a puddle, oil, etc) gets between your tires and the road surface and limits traction. It can be dangerous if not reacted to correctly and can cause you to lose control of your car.
Having a car with all-wheel drive does not completely eliminate the chance of hydroplaning. What’s more important is your driving skill, tire choice, and making the right decisions behind the wheel.
