20th LRS suggests vehicle precautions

Published March 28, 2017
By Airman 1st Class Destinee Sweeney
20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- As the weather gets warmer and the sun lasts longer, people may spend more time outdoors and on the open road. Whether a weekend road trip or a long vacation, the 20th Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle maintenance flight wants to ensure Team Shaw members are fully prepared for their next adventure.

Preventative maintenance on vehicles can save hundreds to thousands of dollars in repairs and prevent potential accidents or emergencies.

“You don’t want to be going down (Interstate) 95 when it’s 105 (degrees) outside and have a tire blow out,” said James Smith, 20th LRS mechanic.

Smith said at that point the vehicle owner would either have to change the tire or potentially pay a lot of money to have someone else change it.

Aside from standard hazards, South Carolina summers can create additional risks for cars.

“It’s extremely hot here in the summer time,” said Smith. “What do you think that does to rubber when it’s rolling on hot pavement? The tires are going to wear quicker. You want to keep an eye on air pressure in tires, and the wear of belts and hoses, all that kind of stuff that the heat will deteriorate faster.”

To help prevent unwanted vehicle costs or safety incidents, the 20th LRS vehicle maintenance flight recommends these precautions:
—Check for cracks in hoses or belts
—Check air pressure and tread for tires
—Maintain fluids, like antifreeze and oil
—Ensure functional lights
—Replace windshield wipers as soon as needed
—Wipe off corrosion on batteries
—Keep the vehicle’s radiator clean
—Be aware of any changes to brakes/brake fluid
—Perform inspections when the car is cold to maintain accuracy

In the military it is not uncommon for vehicles to be left in storage while a member is deployed or on a temporary duty.

Unaccompanied service members who are absent from their vehicle for long periods of time should have someone start the vehicle regularly to keep the car battery from dying, said Jeff Makis, 20th LRS mechanic.

“A little bit of preventative maintenance can save you in the long-run,” said Smith.

Staying on top of vehicle maintenance can help keep Team Shaw members and their wallets safe and sound. For more information, reference the car’s manual or visit an auto mechanic.