Vehicle Inspections: A 15-Point List

49 CFR Part 396.13 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations specifies a driver’s responsibilities before operating a commercial motor vehicle. Below is an abbreviated list to remind you of the tasks to complete each day and the areas of the vehicle to inspect. For additional information, refer to 49 CFR Part 396 - Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance.

DAILY TASKS

• Review the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) for the vehicle to be operated, if one exists.

• Conduct a thorough pre-trip vehicle inspection, preferably using a company approved checklist.

• Verify if previously reported defects and discrepancies have been repaired before operating the vehicle. If repairs are complete and the vehicle is deemed safe to operate, sign the DVIR and turn it into the motor carrier for record keeping.

• If new defects or discrepancies are found during the course of the day, prepare a new DVIR and turn it in at the end of the day.

• If no new defects or discrepancies are found, the driver is not required to complete a new DVIR.

VEHICLE INSPECTION AREA

KEY REMINDERS

• Metal parts cannot be broken or cracked and must be securely mounted.

• Rubber parts should have no abrasions, bulges, or

  cuts.

• Parts holding fluid or air cannot be leaking.

1. Tractor (Front) – Lights, windshield, reflectors,

   steering, suspension, etc.

2. Tractor (Engine Compartment) – Leaks, fluid levels,

   belts, etc.

3. Tractor (Side) – Steer tires, rims, suspension,

   brakes, etc.

4. Tractor (Side) – Mirrors, doors, steps, saddle tank,

   etc.

5. Tractor (Side) – Drive tires, rims, suspension,

   brakes, etc.

6. Tractor (Rear) – Lights, fifth wheel, air and

   electrical lines, etc.

7. Trailer (Front) – Air and electrical connections,

   reefer unit, etc.

8. Trailer (Side) – Reflectors, frame, body, placarding,

   etc.

9. Trailer (Rear) – Tires, rims, suspension, brakes, etc.

10. Trailer (Rear) – Doors, lights, reflectors, cargo securement.

11. Trailer (Rear) – Tires, rims, suspension, brakes, etc.

12. Trailer (Side) – Landing gear, reflectors, frame, body, placarding, etc.

13. Tractor (Side) – Drive tires, rims, suspension, brakes, etc.

14. Tractor (Side) – Mirrors, doors, steps, saddle tank, etc.

15. Tractor (Side) – Steer tires, rims, suspension, brakes, etc.