Working Hours
  • Mon 8:00AM - 5:30PM
    Tue 8:00AM - 5:30PM
  • Wed 8:00AM - 5:30PM
    Thu 8:00AM - 5:30PM
  • Fri 8:00AM - 5:30PM
    Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed
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573-449-4171 | 1204 N College Ave Columbia, MO 65201

4X4 SERVICES

Comprehensive 4x4 and All-Wheel Drive Vehicle Services

When it comes to maintaining your standard 4-wheel drive (4x4) and all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles, the skilled technicians at Walt's Service Inc. possess years of experience and specialized knowledge.

AWD systems operate as full-time 4-wheel-drive setups, where all four wheels receive torque from the engine simultaneously. These intricate systems require unique attention, and we're here to cater to their distinct needs. Below are some of the services we offer:


Alignment
Wheel alignment is a fundamental aspect of vehicle maintenance that entails adjusting the angles of the wheels to match the manufacturer's specifications. This process allows for the proper operation of the suspension and steering systems, reducing tire wear. Our experts excel in this complex procedure, ensuring precision alignment for your vehicle.

Differentials
The differential plays a pivotal role in distributing engine power to the wheels. It enables each wheel to rotate at different speeds, especially crucial during turns. To guarantee that your vehicle's differentials operate flawlessly, regular inspections and servicing are essential.

Driveline
The driveline serves as the vital link between the engine and the wheel axles. It encompasses the powertrain components, excluding the engine and transmission. Any malfunction in the driveline can immobilize your car since it hinders the transfer of energy from the engine to the wheel axles. Therefore, it is imperative to have your car's driveline routinely inspected and serviced.

Hubs, Seals, Studs, & Nuts
Wheel hub motors, or wheel motors, are electric motors integrated into the wheel hub itself, directly driving the wheel. To ensure a safer and smoother ride, it is crucial to replace damaged or worn-out wheel hubs promptly.

Maintaining functioning seals is essential for effective oil and grease sealing, particularly under diverse temperature and environmental conditions. Worn or damaged seals permit contaminants to infiltrate the bearing unit or cause lubricant leakage, leading to premature bearing failure. To safeguard your bearings, it's crucial to replace worn seals with new ones.

Studs are threaded fasteners that secure your truck's wheels to the wheel hub, via the brake disk or drum. If these wheel studs become stripped or damaged, they can pose serious safety risks. For your safety, replace any compromised wheel studs with high-quality replacements promptly.

Wheel nuts or lug nuts are fasteners that secure your vehicle's wheels to the threaded wheel studs on the wheel hub. Worn-out or damaged nuts jeopardize the secure attachment of your wheels to the hub, posing a risk of wheel detachment. To ensure the safe and secure fastening of your truck's wheels, reach out to Walt's Service Inc. in Columbia, MO today.

Transfer Cases
The transfer case plays a crucial role in the four-wheel drive systems of both 4x4 and AWD vehicles. It receives power from the transmission and transmits it to both the front and rear axles. This transfer of power can be achieved through a set of gears or, in most modern cases, chain-driven mechanisms. The transfer case is connected to the transmission and axles via driveshafts.

Transmissions
Transmission repair is a matter of paramount importance, as the transmission is closely linked to key vehicle components, impacting your overall safety. Our transmission services encompass tasks like filter replacement and fluid draining to prevent transmission damage. If you encounter transmission issues such as shifting problems, slipping, stalling, fluid leakage, or a lit service indicator, it is imperative to schedule an appointment.

Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings reside within the wheel assemblies and enable the wheels to spin freely while being connected to the brake system. Over time, they can wear out, leading to a vibrating suspension and noisy operation while driving. In severe cases, if they fail entirely, your vehicle can become challenging to control and unsafe to drive. The replacement interval for wheel bearings varies, but periodic checks for leaks and wear are crucial.


4x4 FAQs

Is there a difference between four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive?

Both all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) engage all four wheels, but with a twist. AWD uses three differentials (front, rear, and center) for continuous power distribution, making it ideal for everyday driving with improved traction. 4WD typically uses two differentials and can be switched between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes, offering more control for off-road adventures.

Are 4x4 vehicles meant just for off-road driving?

While off-roading is their specialty, 4x4s aren't just for outdoor enthusiasts. Their enhanced grip and stability tackle slippery city streets and uneven landscapes with ease, offering peace of mind for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who values dependable performance in diverse conditions.

Is running a four-wheel drive expensive?

Four-wheel drive fuel economy and maintenance might seem daunting, but it's a nuanced picture. Frequent off-road adventures and towing will impact costs differently than city commutes. Analyze your driving habits and needs before comparing 4x4 and 2 wheel drive costs.

To learn more about our 4x4 services, call us at 573-449-4171 or request a quote by clicking below:


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What Our Customers Are Saying

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Was driving from NY to LA when my Bus started dying on the highway. Lookup the nearest VW mechanic and come here. Walt is great! He took a look at my Bus, even though it was late and he was busy-and told me the last guy who rebuilt the engine screwed up. I trusted Walt to rebuild the engine, and he did it cheaper and quicker than the first mechanic, and much better! I now have 10-15mph higher top speed and it runs a lot smoother. Driving from MO to LA I went from losing 1qt/1000 miles to losing no oil! Superb job, honest guy, nobody knows more about air-cooled VWs than he.

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My daughter, a MU student, and her used 2007 high mileage Audi A4 broke down, the car was towed to Walt's. Walt called me the next day and went over his diagnostics and recommendations. He only recommended what needed to be done and did not recommend useless/costly repairs. When the car was complete, he called me with the final bill which was totally reasonable. He was timely and great to work with! I highly recommend this repair shop, it is so hard to find honest and qualified technicians and mechanics these days and Walt is truly one of the best I have ever worked with. I will definitely be back, thank you so much!

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I have an old (2001) high mileage (155k+) VW Golf, and I only take it to Walt's. The staff is friendly, honest, fair, and fairly quick with repairs. They give you options and explain the pros and cons of optional repairs. They keep my old Golf running well, with fair costs for repairs. I would (and have) recommended to anyone with a VW or similar German car.

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I had my MINI Cooper serviced here. These guys are great. They showed me everything about my car (as I know nothing about cars). The Baron MINI in Kansas City told me I needed new front and back brakes and rotors. After showing me how much brake pad I had left on the back brakes, the guy at Walt's said "that's nuts and these should last at least another year". They also did quality work and cost a couple hundred bucks less! I am very pleased!

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I would not take my car anywhere else. They are honest, friendly and work with you to make the best/most cost effective repair solutions.

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Great people and service. They went above and beyond in order to help me resolve a problem with my 2011 Audi S5. Definitely plan on going back.

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  • Call Us For Service: 573-449-4171