Chances are if you're a mountain girl you probably already know what kind of drive terrain your vehicle has. If you're new to mountain driving or need a refresher lets, go over the basics. Staying safe so you can get sendy on the mountain instead of worrying about getting there. After all, as they say, it's the journey, not the destination.

Every car has drive terrain. Whether you have a 4WD- Four Wheel Drive (torque on all four tires is equal), AWD- All Wheel Drive (power is diverted to both the front and back wheels with minimal input from the driver), 2WD- Front Wheel Drive (power steering is diverted to the two wheels of the vehicle). Depending on your ride you may need to put on chains during a snowstorm and adhere to your state's laws in regard to chain controls. Be sure to research what your states law are with chain requirements on the road before heading into a winter storm.

What's the difference between all of the drive terrains? How do you find out what drive terrain your vehicle has? What does your vehicle need to stay safe in winter conditions? 4WD, AWD, 2WD: How To Find Out Your Ride's Drive Terrain find out more below.

4WD- Four Wheel Drive

Most people first thought of a 4-4 is a large sturdy truck, ready to take on anything on the road. 4-4's can be full-time or part-time. Designed to maximize the front and back traction equally while in use, allowing to tackle more rugged terrain than AWD. Typically equipped on large SUVs, trucks, and off-road vehicles.

4WD performs very well in deep snow especially when paired with a good pair of snow tires. Most state's chain control will allow 4-4 vehicles with snow tires to not have to apply chains during storms. However it’s not a bad idea to have a pair handy.

AWD- All Wheel Drive

AWD systems are what are typically included in most SUV's, Crossovers, and Sedans. AWD systems allow for power to the front and rear wheels at all times. It is important to note some systems may be part time AWD and not full time.

The most popular option offered by car makers, AWD, will cost a bit more than your standard 2WD. While in theory, both 4WD and AWD do the same thing, in practice, there is a significant difference. AWD performs well in light snow and rain but doesn't handle slippery/ true off-road conditions. That gnarly spot deep in wilderness? Leave it to a 4WD over a AWD vehicle.

Some states will require AWD to be paired with snow tires and carry chains. Be sure to verify your state's road and snow laws.

2WD- Front/ Rear Wheel Drive

2WD vehicles come either in front wheel drive or rear wheel drive. As the name suggest only two wheels are powered at once. Making it difficult to gain traction in wet/ slippery surfaces. While 2WD vehicles are often the most affordable the tradeoff being they are limited in how they perform on anything but roads/ city driving.

Driving in winter conditions 2WD are required to be paired with snow tires and chains to ensure traction. With that being said 2WD are not equipped to handle severe storms. If you have a Prius and are staring down a 7-foot storm do yourself a favor, wait until the roads are clear.

States will typically have the strictest requirements for 2WD.

What Drive Terrain Does My Vehicle Have?

The best and most secure way to ensure you know what type of drive terrain your vehicle has is by checking your car's VIN number. This will share what your ride is equipped with without any guessing work.

Another quick and easy way? The next time you get your oil changed ask the technicians. If you have a 4WD or AWD ride make sure to do all maintenance on differentials.

How To Be Ready For Any Winter Driving?

• Always carry chains. Regardless of if you have a 4WD, AWD, or 2WD. Don't be caught off guard and be left stranded. Make sure your chains fit your tires, and practice putting them on prior to your trip.

• Snow tires. Tires for weather come out not two optionsz: snow tires and all-weather tires. Snow tires have a higher rating and handle temperature changes better which helps maintain proper pressure. Snow tires are also specialized grooves to help maximum traction. If you are searching for a true winter rated tire, make sure they are 3 peak mountain snowflake rated.

• Carry extra supplies. Food, Water, Blankets, Flashlight, etc. Make sure before venturing into a snowstorm you are fully stocked and ready to be stuck if the highway shuts down for a few hours.

• Keep up with vehicle maintenance. Don't allow your dashboard to light up like a Christmas tree. Stay safe and stress-free. Take care of any issues prior to travel.