Although winters have been getting milder lately, there are still cases when the ground is covered with a thick layer of snow, making it difficult for drivers to travel. At first glance, slippery road surfaces may seem the main reason drivers dislike snow, but there are others. LLLparts specialists say that when heavy snow falls, many drivers cannot reach their destinations because their cars lack cross-country capability. This is especially common among Mercedes drivers, since the vast majority of Mercedes models are rear-wheel drive. Nevertheless, Mercedes offers the option to enjoy the benefits of the 4MATIC four-wheel-drive system. But how can we ensure this system works properly and doesn’t cause additional headaches for drivers?

Is 4MATIC reliable?

It is no secret that German cars are incredibly popular throughout Western Europe for their comfort and quality, and Mercedes-Benz models are no exception. As mentioned earlier, some Mercedes models feature the 4MATIC four-wheel-drive system. True, at first glance, it may seem that this system is typical only for SUVs, but sometimes it is also installed on station wagons or sedans. In winter, this is perhaps the main reason for better passability when the road is covered with a thick layer of snow. However, this, like many other systems, can encounter technical failures over time. LLLparts experts say it needs to be properly maintained, and if you notice the first signs of failure, seek help from specialists immediately.

Differential is problematic part

One of the most common failures of the Mercedes 4MATIC four-wheel-drive system is rear differential problems, which occur in most compact A, CLA, GLA, and GLB models manufactured from 2018-2021. The main symptoms of this problem are noticeable shaking during sharp turns or at lower speeds. LLLparts specialists with many years of experience say that although most drivers try to solve this problem by changing the differential oil, this often improves the situation only temporarily; over time, the differential itself has to be replaced.

Humidity in winter can make things worse

Another common problem is moisture and water getting into the wiring connections in the car, which are directly related to the four-wheel-drive system’s control. The problem usually occurs in winter because moisture is most common during this season. And when this problem occurs, the car’s computer starts to display a 4MATIC error, and the system stops functioning. Despite the error’s appearance, it is not a serious problem. Often, it is enough to replace individual wires and ensure their additional protection against moisture. LLLparts specialists say this is a great example of a malfunction that, at first glance, seems massive but is quite simple to fix.

By the way, some of these troubles can be avoided by taking care of additional insulation of the connections of the Mercedes parts that operate the 4MATIC system in advance, and by using the same tires in good condition. When tires are worn unevenly, the system wears out much more quickly, often leading to problems. So, every Mercedes 4Matic driver should not be saving by not using brand-new, high-quality tyres.