How can I tell if my 2004 Buick Rainier has AWD or not?

AllllllMac

New member
I just bought this Rainier advertised as AWD and I am sliding all over the place up here in MI. Either this is not AWD or I need to learn how to drive with it. Never had all wheel drive before.
Thanks
Andy
 

C7S

Member
You still slide with AWD, but it is easier to get out of deep snow with AWD.

It should say AWD in the back of the car.

When you lift the car and put it in Drive, all wheels should move.
 

pbleek

Member
Traction is determined by the type of tires you have, AWD will make you accelerate faster in slippery conditions, but only winter tires will help when it comes to stopping, cornering on ice and snow.
 

BobbyJim

Member
Buick Rainiers came with AWD.
It's electronically controlled, so it's possible that a module or sensor has gone bad.

The Rainier is a rear wheel drive vehicle primarily (Sharing the same platform as the Chevy Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Olds Bravada, and Saab 9.7x SUVs...Chevy's could be ordered as 2 wheel drive, rear axle.)

To be sure though, look for the CV Joints on the front axles. These are axles, not just spindles.
 

BobbyJim

Member
Buick Rainiers came with AWD.
It's electronically controlled, so it's possible that a module or sensor has gone bad.

The Rainier is a rear wheel drive vehicle primarily (Sharing the same platform as the Chevy Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Olds Bravada, and Saab 9.7x SUVs...Chevy's could be ordered as 2 wheel drive, rear axle.)

To be sure though, look for the CV Joints on the front axles. These are axles, not just spindles.
 

BobbyJim

Member
Buick Rainiers came with AWD.
It's electronically controlled, so it's possible that a module or sensor has gone bad.

The Rainier is a rear wheel drive vehicle primarily (Sharing the same platform as the Chevy Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Olds Bravada, and Saab 9.7x SUVs...Chevy's could be ordered as 2 wheel drive, rear axle.)

To be sure though, look for the CV Joints on the front axles. These are axles, not just spindles.
 
Top