Getting out into the snow is crucial for Minnesotans to survive the harsh winters. Plus, it’s a lot of fun. For those of you hitting the slopes this year for a few turns, lugging skis, snowboards, boots, and poles inside your vehicle can be a burden.

Not only does the equipment limit space for passengers, sharp edges and jagged tips pose a threat to your car’s interior. Plus, there’s the drippy mess to consider on the ride home.

It usually happens when you least expect it. Say, you’re running late, or you have a carload of kids, or you’ve decided to take that back road, or the weather is just downright crummy, then it happens... a flat tire.

Road salt is a winter hitchhiker you don’t want to be giving rides to. Over time, sodium chloride residue can turn into automotive cancer, eating away at metals on your vehicle.

Frequent washing may help extend the life of your vehicle, but how often should you wash your car in the winter, especially considering that freezing temperatures can lead to sticky situations regarding door handles, window seams, and door frames?

Car terminology can be confusing if you don’t speak the language. You don’t have to know what every piece of tech is called, but it helps to know some basic terms -- especially if you’re planning to car shop in the near future.

Here are some basic auto words that may come up as you’re touring a car lot.

Whether it’s blizzards, whiteouts, sub-zero temperatures, black ice, or freezing rain -- Minnesota has it all. To survive the extremes, Minnesotans have to be both tough and smart.

If this is your first winter in our beloved northern climate, you might be intimidated by winter driving. Don’t worry -- we’ve got you covered with these frequently asked questions.