An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Article Display

JB MDL safety office staff provides tips for getting vehicles spring ready

  • Published
  • By Wendy E. Medley
  • Joint Base Safety Office
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  The weather, dust and stop-and-go traffic will take its toll on vehicles this spring. Drivers can lessen the odds of mechanical failure with periodic maintenance which will also help lengthen the life of vehicles. Some of the maintenance tasks are easy to do individually. Below is a list of check points people should perform on their cars for the spring season:

· Check windshield fluid, engine coolant, transmission fluid and brake fluid levels. Drivers should ensure their vehicles are turned off before checking the fluids. To check fluid levels, drivers should remove the dipstick to see where the mark is. Drivers should also check.
· Check engine hoses. Always check the hoses to make sure they are not torn, worn or have dry cracks. The hose fastener should be tight.
· Change wiper blades. Windshield wiper blades should be changed periodically and inspected for tears, dry cracking, frays and dulling.
· Inspect all lights and bulbs. Check headlights, tail lights, brake lights and turn signals to make sure they are operational. Replace bulbs as needed.
· Check the automobile horn to ensure it is in working condition.
· Test brakes for proper use. Brakes should be inspected frequently and if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or notice it taking longer to stop, take your car in for maintenance.
· Inspect tires. Walk around vehicles and check all four tires to ensure the tread is good. Drivers should also check tires for dry rot, holes, wedged objects, and proper inflation. Drivers should also check the spare tire to ensure it's in good working order.
· Drivers can use the penny method:
· Put a penny with Lincoln's head down between the tread
· If the top of Lincoln's head is still visible, the tire tread is bad.

All drivers should store an emergency kit with basic tools, a working flashlight with batteries, first aid kit and flares in their trunks.

There are some items during an inspection that may require a professional mechanic. For a professional point inspection, the Joint Base Firestone, 723-0464, and the Joint Base Auto Hobby Shop, 754-4316, will perform a courtesy check on vehicles.

For further information, contact the Joint Base Safety Office either at 754-7233 or (732) 323-2525.