Most AWDs use a central diff for all four wheels. It's for distributing different amounts of torque front and back. It's not quite the same as a 2WD or 4WD diff

Most AWDs use a central diff for all four wheels. It's for distributing different amounts of torque front and back. It's not quite the same as a 2WD or 4WD differential(s) that only handle left/right. It's not at all the same as just a big open differential. A central diff compensating for front/back distribution while also handling a constant mismatched load on one side is definitely going to mess it up. If it's your car feel free to try it and tell me if you get a bunch of dash lights from your AWD computer. > The manual probably also says that aftermarket oil/air filters will void warrantees, or that changing your own brake pads is dangerous. If your manual actually says this I will eat my hat. It's literally illegal in the US: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnuson%E2%80%93Moss_Warranty_Act https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnuson%E2%80%93Moss_Warranty...