What’s Really Inside a Lexus AWD System? There's More Than You Think!

Ever wondered what’s actually happening underneath your Lexus when the pavement gets snowy? In today’s video, I am doing a full mechanical teardown of Lexus's All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system to see how it distributes power, maintains grip, its inner workings, and why it’s earned a reputation for bulletproof reliability. Lexus doesn’t just use one "AWD" system—they utilize everything from traditional mechanical Torsen Limited-Slip Differentials (LSD) in the larger GX and LX to the cutting-edge Direct4 hybrid and electric drive systems in the RX and RZ. In this video I'll be focusing on the RWD based AWD system found in the Lexus GS, IS and LS sedans, taking apart a Toyota A760 transmission transfer case to show you the gears, the clutches, and the valve body and solenoid that make it all happen. The transfer case from this teardown is from a 2007 Lexus GS350 AWD with the A760 6 speed automatic transmission. It was apparently a low mileage unit which was only used for the first three years before the vehicle was wrecked. An A760F transmission teardown video will follow shortly. 📍 What is Covered in This Teardown: The Mechanical Core: A look inside the transfer case and center differential. The transfer case has to be taken apart piece by piece before removing it from the transmission! Control system: A look at the solenoid, valve body and hydraulic circuit that controls the clutch. That's right, there's an entire control system for just the AWD system! Control Clutch: A discussion about power distribution from rear to front wheels and what the roll of the clutch is in transferring torque. It integrates well with Lexus's VDIM system of the era, where the car takes you for a spin! Reliability Check: Common wear points and why these systems often outlast the competition. Maintenance Tips: Please change the transmission fluid frequently. On this model, it is shared with the transfer case, leading to extra wear on the fluid vs a traditional transmission that has a separate transfer case without an active clutch. Learn how Mercedes 4MATIC AWD Works here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8pWoHK6G5c Learn how BMW X-drive AWD Works here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LgOuY1mqzZU Learn how Audi Quattro AWD Works here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlWopZRzkvA Learn how Subaru AWD Works here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cSA_qiJ5wl4 🕒 Chapters: 0:00 Introducing the Lexus AWD Philosophy and Layout 0:26 Removing the Transfer Case from the Transmission 1:55 Teardown: The Guts of the Center Differential 3:48 The Torque Split Reallocation 5:18 Control System & Fluid Passages 7:29 Vehicle Dynamic Control System (Lexus VDIM) 8:01 Final Verdict: Is it the best AWD on the market? Let me know in the comments section your experience with Lexus's different AWD systems and how it compares to other AWD vehicles you've driven!