When is it appropriate to keep the DA Form 5988?

The DA Form 5988 is utilized to document the status of Army vehicles, particularly for recording faults and maintenance. It is appropriate to keep the form when there are no faults found on the vehicle, as this documentation serves as a record of the vehicle’s operational status. It ensures transparency and provides a basis for further inspections or maintenance.

Maintaining documentation of a vehicle that is in good condition is crucial for accountability and safety. It can be referenced in the future to confirm that no issues were reported during a specific time frame, supporting a history of the vehicle's operational readiness. Furthermore, keeping a DA Form 5988 when no faults are found aids in establishing that the vehicle was thoroughly checked and is safe for operation, aligning with Army maintenance standards and protocols.