Real dumb quesiton here, but how do you know if your RX is FWD or AWD?

This is not my car so I am asking. I have driven it many times, but never noticed whether it's AWD or FWD.

 

Still a good question to ask.

Just look underneath and if you see this (blue), you have an AWD.

 

Thanks.

Any way to figure it out, without having to look under?

 

I sort of recall a member mentioning a difference in the vin number between AWD/FWD, but somebody else in the forum may remember the difference.

 

You can figure it from VIN number.
What is the forth letter of your VIN number?
If it is 'H' - it is AWD.
If it is 'G' - it is FWD.

Also, open the driver's door and look at the sticker (on the lower part of the door). Look under the barcode.
If it says "U140F" - it is AWD.
If it says "U140E" - it is FWD.

 

wow. didn't realize it was this hard to distinguish. Glad I asked. I automatically assumed mine was FWD since there was no AWD sign.

 

I found that JT6HF so I guess that means it's AWD right? Didn't see any U140F nor E though.

Thanks.

 

Correct. You've got AWD. AWD is three times safer than FWD even with traction control (stock AWD RX has no traction control).

FYI: U140E/F is the code of your transmission in case someone asks. You got U140F transmission. Your engine is 1MZ-FE VVT-i, 3.0 litter, 24 valves, 4 cams, double throttle body.

 

You'll love AWD on a 1/4 mile run...no spin. Beating and then later running myself that FWD Mazda CX7 on Saturday night was a delightful joy I would rather forget.

 

Awesome thanks. It's actually my gf's ride, which she got from her ex as a gift. lol. It's been used and abused though and I'm trying to clean/fix it all up. After shocks, I need to change the front bumpers.