HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Officials from the 66th Force Support Squadron Auto Skills Development Center here recently expanded self-help hours to include Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Open to all those with independent base access, personnel can reserve one of the center’s three self-help bays to work on their own vehicles, with access to tools and equipment to handle a wide variety of maintenance and projects.
“Whether you’re doing routine maintenance on a personal vehicle or working on a passion project, we have the tools to help you get it done,” said Ed DeFlumeri, 66 FSS Auto Skills Development Center manager. “We also have a computer program that will give a step-by-step instruction on how to work on any vehicle.”
In addition to self-help bays, technicians at the auto center offer services for routine repairs and maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations, and emissions testing.
Officials said the center offers state vehicle inspections too. Inspections can be done for vehicles registered in any state with a valid registration.
The shop also operates a 24/7 drive-through, touchless car wash and self-service bay, equipped with vacuums and product vending machines. In addition, patrons can use the locked security compound for storing excess vehicles, as well as a Sale Lot.
While services at the auto center do come with a fee, DeFlumeri said they are typically fractions of the cost found off-base.
“We’re proud to offer these services, especially to our younger members and families, who are working hard for their money,” he said.
DeFlumeri said his team is currently working to develop instructive, hands-on courses that will demonstrate how to perform vehicle basics, such as oil, fluid, and wiper blade changes, as well as tire rotations.
“We don’t want anyone to shy away from the auto center,” he said. “We’re here to help, teach, and assist however we can.”
The full Auto Skills Development Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. State inspections and emissions testing is done Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
For additional information on the Auto Skills Development Center, visit www.Hanscomfss.com/auto-skills-center.