By Lucy Wyndham

UNDATED (NewsDakota.com) – Last year’s historic snowfall reminded us that winter weather in North Dakota can be quite serious.

Anyone who has lived in the state long enough knows the importance of having a good car or truck to get you through the long, cold months. Well into spring, hazards exist for drivers in the region, ranging from weather to wildlife.

Though vehicle fatalities in the state decreased last year, too many people still die each year in car crashes across North Dakota. Staying on top of your vehicle maintenance can help keep you safe while on the road, no matter the season.

Under Your Hood

Your car’s engine is the key to its functionality. It’s important to keep everything under your hood running smoothly. From checking fluid levels to changing the oil, block out some regular  time to take your car in to a mechanic or care for it yourself at home. This will need to be done every 5,000 miles. It might even serve you well to have your engine completely flushed every 10,000 miles.

Ask your mechanic to check out your spark plugs and brake pads as well, to monitor their condition. Don’t hesitate to spend a bit more to keep them in decent working condition. A little bit can go a long way, and keeping on top of what’s going on under your car’s hood might just save you from being stranded on the highway or stuck in a storm. Most major car problems start out as small mechanical issues, resulting from regular wear and tear. When you invest in your vehicle’s maintenance, you can avoid large problems for longer.

Protecting A Vehicle’s Exterior

It’s no surprise American-made trucks are the most popular vehicles among North Dakota drivers. Their durability goes far on our rural roads and their capacity to tow and haul comes in handy. Most of us are pretty proud of our vehicles and how they take care of us year round, so it’s no surprise keeping up appearances is high on the priority list. However, this can also keep you safe.

Steps like regularly washing your car and checking on the tire tread help you stay on top of any exterior issues your car might be experiencing. A clean windshield means a clearer driving view and defogged lights means a brighter beacon for oncoming traffic. Be sure to keep your license tag and front grille free of ice and snow, as that’s where many of your car’s cameras and sensors are housed. Also when brushing snow off the top of your vehicle, be sure to remove it from the front and rear bumpers, giving sensors in these areas more room to work,

Maintaining your vehicle’s function and cleanliness will help keep you safe on the roads this year, and for that, your fellow North Dakota drivers thank you. Contact your dealership or talk to your mechanic for tips on your maintaining your specific car make and model.