🔧 Bet You’ve Never Seen This AWD System Before

📅 Original | Honda誌 | JDM Car Fans Magazine | Published: April 17, 2025

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🚗 What Is Honda Real Time 4WD?

You’ve probably heard of Honda’s SH-AWD system—some of you might even have it on your car. But before SH-AWD, Honda already had another lesser-known AWD system that’s still in use today:
👉 Honda Real Time 4WD

This system isn't just used in CR-Vs or Elements—it also appeared in AWD versions of the Fit, Civic, and more. And most notably, it was the world’s first mass-produced hydraulic AWD system! 💥

❄️ Why Was Real Time 4WD Invented?

It all began with Hokkaido, Japan, where winters are harsh and snow is deep. At the time, most AWD cars didn’t have automatic switching—drivers had to get out and manually engage 4WD! 🚶♂️❄️

While effective off-road, this system was too much hassle for daily users and consumed more fuel in 4WD mode.

🛠️ The 1st Generation (1987)

The first version appeared in the 1987 Civic EF4 and Shuttle.
Key features:

• Viscous coupling differential in the center

• Linked to both front and rear differentials

• Activated when front and rear wheel speeds differed

• Automatically transmitted torque to rear wheels when needed

💡 Components Included:
Transmission, front axle diff, driveshafts, viscous coupling, central driveshaft, and rear axle diff.

⚙️ The 2nd Generation – DPS Real Time 4WD (1997)

In 1997, Honda upgraded to the Dual Pump System (DPS), launched on the 1st-gen CR-V.

🛢️ How it Works:

• Two hydraulic pumps (front and rear)

• Multi-plate clutch

• When front wheels spin faster, the front pump builds pressure

• Rear pump can’t match → oil flows to clutch → engages AWD

• Clutch disengages when speeds normalize

🌀 Bonus: The oil also lubricates the system as it flows! 🔄

🤖 The 3rd Generation – Intelligent AWD (2018)

Borrowing tech from SH-AWD, the 2018 version became smart 🧠
💡 Now packed with sensors + ECU
💡 Operates as FWD most of the time
💡 Automatically engages AWD only when needed

🧪 3 Drive Modes of Real Time 4WD:

1️⃣ Start-Up (Low Traction):
If front wheels slip, torque is sent to rear wheels based on slip rate + engine power.
✅ Keeps the vehicle moving even in snow or rain.

2️⃣ Cruising Mode:
At constant speed, the system disengages AWD to save fuel and reduce emissions.
✅ Better mileage, less stress on the drivetrain.

3️⃣ Uphill on Slippery Roads:
Based on throttle input, torque goes to rear wheels to maintain grip.
✅ Prevents front wheel burnout or slippage.

🔍 System Structure & Function

📦 Components:

• Multi-plate clutch

• Hydraulic valves

• Electric motor

• Oil pump

• Reservoir

• ECU & sensors

• Rear differential

🧩 How it Works:

• ECU detects potential slippage → motor powers pump → oil pressure builds

• Clutch engages → power goes to rear axle

• At cruising → return valve opens → oil returns to reservoir → AWD disengages

📊 Final Thoughts

Real Time 4WD is not like traditional full-time AWD (performance-focused)
Nor like off-road 4WD (with a transfer case)

✅ It’s made for everyday drivers
✅ It reacts to real-world conditions
✅ It’s automatic, efficient, and safe
✅ Especially great for inexperienced drivers or snowy/icy roads ❄️

💬 In Honda’s own way, Real Time 4WD proves that “clever is better than complex.”