The Straight Shift with The Car Chick

Author: LeeAnn Shattuck, The Car Chick: Your Car Buying and Repair Expert

The Straight Shift is a podcast that's about cars! Car buying, car selling, car maintenance and repairs, safe driving tips, and general car-related nonsense designed to empower consumers. Brought to you by The Car Chick, the #1 trusted automotive expert for women and smart men.  New episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month!
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Do You Really Need AWD? The Winter Driving Myth Most Car Buyers Believe
Episode 125
Tuesday, 3 February, 2026

SummaryIn this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick® discusses the importance of understanding different drivetrains, particularly in the context of winter driving. She reflects on the recent winter storms in the Carolinas and addresses common misconceptions about all-wheel drive vehicles. The conversation covers the differences between rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive, emphasizing the significance of tires and driving skills in snowy conditions. The episode concludes with advice on making informed decisions about vehicle purchases based on individual driving needs.TakeawaysMany people overestimate their need for all-wheel drive.Understanding the differences in drivetrains is crucial for safety.All-wheel drive does not improve braking on slippery surfaces.Tires play a significant role in winter driving performance.Four-wheel drive offers more control than all-wheel drive in certain conditions.All-wheel drive systems can be expensive to maintain and replace tires.Resources:Snow Day Driving Fun video: https://youtu.be/ibOHd-BxS0Q?si=PZb7UgsjUY6ks7vnMatt’s Off-Road Recovery YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MattsOffRoadRecoveryYou can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. Connect with LeeAnn: Website Instagram Facebook YouTube Work with LeeAnn: Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car Car Buying Service Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.