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Wheels, Tires and Undercarriage Inspection Form
Introduction
Regular inspection of wheels, tires, and undercarriage components is essential for vehicle safety, performance, and longevity. This comprehensive checklist guides maintenance personnel and drivers through a systematic inspection process that helps identify potential issues before they lead to costly breakdowns, accidents, or tire failures. Proper tire maintenance also contributes to improved fuel efficiency and extended tire life, creating significant operational cost savings.
This inspection form covers all critical aspects of wheels, tires, and undercarriage components, including tire pressure, tread depth, wheel condition, suspension systems, steering linkages, and drivetrain components. By following this standardized approach, fleet operators can ensure regulatory compliance, reduce roadside emergencies, and maintain optimal vehicle performance. The checklist aligns with DOT requirements, manufacturer specifications, and industry best practices for tire safety and maintenance.
Pro Tips for Effective Tire & Undercarriage Inspection
- 💡 Check Tires When Cold: Always measure tire pressure when tires are cold (before driving or at least 3 hours after driving) for accurate readings. Tire pressure can increase by 2-4 PSI when hot, giving false readings.
- 💡 Inspect the Full Tread: Don't just check tread depth at one point. Measure at multiple locations across the tire's width to identify uneven wear patterns which indicate alignment, suspension, or inflation issues.
- 💡 Use Proper Lighting: Inspect undercarriage components with adequate lighting—preferably a flashlight even during daytime inspections. This helps identify leaks, cracks, and damage that might be missed in shadows.
Vehicle Information
Tire Data Collection
Record specific measurements for each tire position. Ensure all pressure readings are taken when tires are cold for accuracy.
Left Front (LF)
Right Front (RF)
Left Rear (LR)
Right Rear (RR)
Spare Tire (if equipped)
Recommended Values
Tire Inspection
Wheel Inspection
Brake Components
Suspension System
Drivetrain Components
Undercarriage Protection
Alignment Indicators
Wheel Bearing Status
Additional Commercial Vehicle Items
Detailed Inspection Procedures
Follow these structured procedures to ensure proper inspection of wheels, tires, and undercarriage components. These step-by-step instructions help identify potential issues before they lead to failures or safety concerns.
Proper Tire Pressure Checking
- ✓ Check when tires are cold (before driving or 3+ hours after)
- ✓ Remove valve cap and firmly press gauge onto valve stem
- ✓ Read gauge at eye level for accuracy
- ✓ Compare to manufacturer's recommended pressure
Measuring Tread Depth
- ✓ Use a tread depth gauge (preferred) or penny test
- ✓ Measure at 3 points across tire width (outer, center, inner)
- ✓ Check multiple spots around tire circumference
- ✓ Record the shallowest measurement found
Checking Wheel Bearing Play
- ✓ Safely lift and support vehicle at proper jacking points
- ✓ Grasp tire at 12 and 6 o'clock positions and try to rock
- ✓ Repeat at 3 and 9 o'clock positions
- ✓ Spin wheel to check for noise or roughness
Inspecting Ball Joints
- ✓ Check for torn or damaged rubber boots
- ✓ Look for grease leakage indicating seal failure
- ✓ Verify grease fittings present (if serviceable type)
- ✓ Test for excessive play with vehicle supported
Inspection Progress
0% complete
Electronic Signature
Defects & Corrective Actions
Conclusion
Implementing this comprehensive Wheels, Tires and Undercarriage Inspection Form as a standard procedure is vital for maintaining vehicle safety, performance, and regulatory compliance. By systematically inspecting these critical components, you can identify potential issues before they lead to costly breakdowns or safety hazards. Regular tire and undercarriage inspections not only prevent roadside emergencies but also contribute to improved fuel efficiency, extended tire life, and reduced maintenance costs.
For optimal inspection management and record-keeping, consider implementing the FleetRabbit software solution. The FleetRabbit platform digitizes your inspection process, creating a permanent record of all tire, wheel, and undercarriage inspections with automatic reminders for rotation schedules, alignment checks, and replacement intervals. This digital approach helps fleet managers maintain compliance with DOT regulations while providing documentation for warranty claims and insurance requirements.
With the FleetRabbit APP, fleet operators gain valuable insights into tire wear patterns, maintenance needs, and component longevity across the entire fleet. The comprehensive reporting features help identify recurring issues, plan preventive maintenance more effectively, and optimize tire selection and replacement strategies. Make wheel, tire, and undercarriage inspections more efficient, thorough, and consistent with FleetRabbit's specialized digital inspection solution.
Access the digital version of this checklist through the FleetRabbit APP
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