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Detailed Daily Inspection Checklist for Public Transit Buses - DVIR
Introduction
Daily Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIR) are federally mandated for all commercial motor vehicles, including public transit buses. This comprehensive checklist is designed to help transit operators conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections that comply with FMCSA regulations and ensure passenger safety. Regular inspections of brakes, lights, doors, and safety systems help identify potential issues before they lead to breakdowns, accidents, or service disruptions.
Following this transit bus DVIR checklist not only ensures regulatory compliance but also extends vehicle service life, improves fuel efficiency, reduces maintenance costs, and provides critical documentation for safety records and potential liability issues. The checklist covers all key systems specified in 49 CFR § 396.11 and 396.13, including brakes, steering, lighting, tires, horn, wipers, mirrors, emergency equipment, and accessibility features specific to public transit vehicles.
Bus Information
Pro Tips for Effective Transit Bus Inspection
- Follow the Same Pattern: Develop a consistent inspection pattern to ensure nothing is missed. Many operators start at the front left, move clockwise around the vehicle, then check interior components.
- Use Multiple Senses: Don't just look—listen for unusual sounds, feel for loose components, and note any unusual odors that might indicate fluid leaks or overheating.
- Document Immediately: Record defects as soon as they're discovered rather than trying to remember them later. Be specific about the location and nature of the issue.
- Check ADA Equipment Thoroughly: Pay special attention to wheelchair lifts, ramps, securement systems, and priority seating areas, as these are critical for accessibility compliance.
Engine Compartment
External Inspection
Lighting Systems
Brake System
Tires and Wheels
Suspension and Steering
ADA Accessibility Equipment
Interior Inspection
Operational Check
Engine and Systems
Exterior Damage Assessment
Interior Condition
Safety Systems Status
ADA Equipment Verification
End of Shift Procedures
Detailed Inspection Procedures
Follow these structured procedures to ensure a thorough inspection of your transit bus. Adapt these steps to your specific vehicle type and agency protocols.
Air Brake Test Procedure
- Start with engine off, parking brake applied
- Start engine and build pressure to governor cut-out (120-140 psi)
- Turn off engine, release parking brake, and press brake pedal
- Note initial pressure, time one minute, and note ending pressure
- Pressure drop should not exceed 3 psi for single vehicles
- Apply brake pedal and hold, pressure should not drop more than 3 psi in one minute
- Restart engine and verify low air warning activates at 55-65 psi
- Continue applying and releasing brake until spring brakes activate (20-45 psi)
Wheelchair Lift/Ramp Inspection
- Check interlock system - vehicle shouldn't move with lift deployed
- Deploy lift/ramp completely and check for smooth operation
- Inspect lift platform for damage, non-skid surface condition
- Test roll-stop barriers and side barriers for proper operation
- Test handrails for security and function
- Check manual backup system for operation
- Stow lift/ramp and verify it locks securely
- Inspect securement straps and passenger restraints
Steering & Suspension Check
- With engine running, check steering wheel free play (less than 10°)
- Turn steering wheel fully in both directions - no binding
- Inspect all steering components for leaks, damage
- Check power steering fluid level
- Inspect air bags for leaks, damage, proper inflation
- Look for unusual wear patterns on tires
- Check for proper ride height
- Test kneeling function if equipped
Door Operation Check
- Operate passenger doors through complete cycle
- Check door edges for proper seal and alignment
- Test sensitive edge function (doors reopen on contact)
- Verify door warning lights and indicators
- Test emergency door release mechanism
- Check door glass for cracks or damage
- Ensure doors fully close and seal properly
- Verify interlock system prevents vehicle movement with doors open
Inspection Progress
0% complete
Operator Certification
I certify that I have performed a pre-trip inspection of this vehicle and have noted all defects, deficiencies, and damage per 49 CFR 396.11 and 396.13.
I certify that I have performed a post-trip inspection of this vehicle and have noted all defects, deficiencies, and damage per 49 CFR 396.11.
Defects & Safety Concerns
Mechanic Certification (if repairs needed)
I certify that the repairs noted on this DVIR have been performed and that the vehicle is safe to operate.
Transit Bus Maintenance Guidelines
These guidelines outline recommended maintenance tasks to complement your daily inspections. Following these schedules helps prevent equipment failures and extends the service life of your transit buses.
Daily Maintenance
- Check all fluid levels
- Inspect tires for proper inflation and damage
- Test all lighting systems
- Drain air tanks of moisture
- Clean interior and exterior
- Test wheelchair lift/ramp function
- Check passenger door operation
Weekly Maintenance
- Check battery connections and fluid levels
- Inspect belts and hoses
- Test wheelchair securement systems
- Check brake adjustment
- Inspect wheel lug nuts for tightness
- Verify emergency equipment (fire extinguisher, etc.)
- Test HVAC systems
Monthly Maintenance
- Perform comprehensive brake inspection
- Inspect air system components
- Lubricate chassis components
- Check suspension system components
- Inspect steering components
- Clean battery terminals
- Check all electrical connections
Quarterly Maintenance
- Change engine oil and filters
- Replace air filter (or as needed)
- Inspect transmission and differential fluid
- Test charging system output
- Service wheelchair lift per manufacturer
- Complete cooling system service
- Perform differential fluid change (if applicable)
Conclusion
Implementing this Detailed Daily Inspection Checklist for Public Transit Buses (DVIR) is essential for maintaining fleet safety, regulatory compliance, and reliability. By systematically inspecting critical components before and after service, operators can identify potential issues before they lead to breakdowns, accidents, or service disruptions that impact the community.
For optimal inspection management, consider implementing the FleetRabbit APP to streamline your transit bus inspection process. The FleetRabbit platform allows digital documentation of pre-trip and post-trip inspections, provides real-time alerts for maintenance requirements, and creates comprehensive historical records for each vehicle in your fleet. With the FleetRabbit software, transportation managers can easily track compliance with FMCSA regulations, monitor maintenance patterns, and ensure all equipment is properly inspected.
Make transit bus inspections an integral part of your agency's safety culture with the FleetRabbit software's comprehensive inspection management solution. Whether for FMCSA compliance, warranty maintenance, or operational reliability, this digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on operators and maintenance personnel.
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