Pre-Trip Inspection Guide for Truckers

A driver-friendly inspection procedure that keeps you safe and DOT-compliant. Written by truckers, for truckers.

Hey Driver!

We know you've got miles to make and money to earn, but those 15-30 minutes you spend on pre-trip can save your life, your license, and your livelihood. This guide breaks down the inspection into simple, manageable sections that any driver can follow.

Remember: No Load is Worth Your Life

If something doesn't feel right, trust your gut. Better to be late than never make it home.

Under the Hood - Engine Compartment

Pro Tip: Do this check with a cold engine when possible - you'll get more accurate readings and won't burn yourself!
  • Engine oil: Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert, and check. Oil should be between MIN and MAX marks.
  • Coolant level: Check the overflow tank - never open a hot radiator cap!
  • Power steering fluid: Check with engine off. Low fluid = hard steering = dangerous.
  • Windshield washer: Fill it up - you can't drive safely if you can't see.
  • Belts: Look for cracks, fraying, or shiny spots. Press with your thumb - should have about 1/2 inch give.
  • Hoses: Squeeze them gently - soft spots mean replacement time.
  • Leaks: Look on the ground and engine for wet spots, drips, or puddles.

In the Cab - Your Office

Pro Tip: Set up your cab before you roll - adjust seat, mirrors, and steering wheel. Comfort equals less fatigue.
  • Start engine and watch gauges - all should read normal within 30 seconds.
  • Test both horns - city horn and air horn if you have one.
  • Windshield check - no cracks in your line of sight (wiper area).
  • Test wipers and washers - both speeds should work smoothly.
  • Adjust all mirrors - you should see down both sides without leaning.
  • Seat belt check - it should click solidly and retract properly.
  • Emergency kit - fire extinguisher (check gauge), 3 triangles, first aid kit.
  • Paperwork - registration, insurance, permits, medical card, logbook/ELD.

Lights & Signals - Be Seen!

Pro Tip: Park facing a building or ask another driver to help check your lights. Cell phone video works too!
  • Headlights - check both low and high beams on both sides.
  • Turn signals - all four corners should flash at the same speed.
  • Four-way flashers - all should work together.
  • Brake lights - press pedal and check all lights come on.
  • Clearance lights - the little ones on top and sides.
  • Side markers - amber front, red rear.
  • License plate light - cops love to ticket for this one!

Tires & Wheels - Where Rubber Meets Road

Pro Tip: The penny test: Put Lincoln's head down in the tread. If you see all of his head, you need new tires. For steers, use a quarter (Washington's head).
  • Tire pressure: Use a gauge, don't thump. Proper pressure = better fuel mileage.
  • Tread depth: 4/32" minimum on steers, 2/32" on all others.
  • Tire condition: Look for cuts, bulges, or steel showing through.
  • Between duals: Make sure nothing's stuck between them.
  • Lug nuts: All present? Look for rust streaks (means they're loose).
  • Wheel seals: Shiny means leaking - that's a problem.
  • Valve stems: Should be straight, not bent or cracked.

Brakes - Your Life Depends on These

Pro Tip: If brakes don't feel right, they're not right. Don't risk it - get them checked.
  • Air pressure buildup: Should reach 120-140 psi within 2 minutes at high idle.
  • Air leak test: With brakes released, turn off engine, hold brake pedal for 1 minute.
  • - Single vehicle: less than 3 psi loss
  • - Combination: less than 4 psi loss
  • Low air warning: Should come on before 60 psi.
  • Spring brakes: Should pop out between 20-45 psi.
  • Brake adjustment: Push rod travel shouldn't exceed limits (usually 2 inches).
  • Parking brake test: Set it and gently try to move - truck shouldn't budge.
  • Service brake test: At 5 mph, brakes should stop you smoothly, no pulling.

Coupling - Tractor to Trailer Connection

Pro Tip: "Get out and look" - G.O.A.L. Never assume your connection is good. High hooks happen to the best of us.
  • Fifth wheel: No space between upper and lower plate - fully engaged.
  • Kingpin: Locked in place with locking jaws closed around it.
  • Release handle: In locked position and safety latch (if equipped) is on.
  • Air lines: Both connected properly, no air leaking, glad hands locked.
  • Electrical line: Firmly connected, no damage to cord.
  • Sliding fifth wheel: If you have one, make sure it's locked.
  • Landing gear: Fully raised, handle secured, no bent parts.
  • Trailer height: Not too high or low - should be level.

Cargo Security - Protect Your Load

Pro Tip: If it can move, it will move. Secure everything - your paycheck and safety depend on it.
  • Check load distribution - not too heavy on one side or too far back.
  • Verify all cargo is secured with appropriate equipment (straps, chains, load bars).
  • Inspect tie-down devices - no cuts, proper working load limit for your cargo.
  • For flatbed: edge protection on all sharp corners.
  • Check cargo doors - properly latched and sealed if required.
  • Placards - if hauling hazmat, ensure proper placards are displayed.
  • Weight - know your gross and axle weights, don't trust the shipper!

Final Reminders for Safe Travels

  • Complete your DVIR (Driver Vehicle Inspection Report) honestly.
  • Report any defects to dispatch/maintenance immediately.
  • Don't drive with critical defects - no load is worth your life.
  • Keep inspection reports as required by law.
  • Remember: You're the captain of your ship - you make the final call on safety.

Drive Safe, Driver!

Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down. We'll see you at the next truck stop!

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