Vehicle Inspection Checklist

These flashcards cover the essential checks required during a vehicle inspection, including areas of the vehicle to inspect and specific items to verify.

In-vehicle/engine start inspection

Includes air or hydraulic brake check, parking brake check, trailer brake check, service brake check, lighting indicators, emergency equipment, windshield & traffic monitoring devices, wipers & washers, heater & defroster, and horn(s).

Lights operations check

Involves checking all external lights including headlights (high & low beam), turn signals, 4-way flashers, brake lights, clearance & marker lights, and reflectors.

Front vehicle/engine area inspection

Must check lenses (clean, proper color, not cracked), fluid levels (engine oil, coolant), fluid and air leaks, and the steering system.

Steering axle inspection items

Includes checking tires (4/32" tread min, properly inflated), rims (no cracks), lug nuts (tight, no rust trails), springs, mounts, airbags, shocks (secure), brake lines or hoses (no leaks), and brake contaminants (no grease or oil).

Side of vehicle inspection

Includes checking lenses & reflectors, traffic monitoring devices (mirrors, cameras), battery (secure, no corrosion), fuel tanks/DEF tank (no leaks), and frame (no cracks).

Combination vehicle inspection

Involves inspecting air & electric lines/connectors (no leaks, secure), fifth wheel skid plate/pintle hook (greased, no damage), kingpin & apron or drawbar (not worn), coupler & mounting (secure), and locking & safety devices (engaged).

Trailer-only inspection items

Includes checking landing gear & clearance (fully raised, handle secure) and reflective tape (clean, visible).

Rear of trailer inspection

Must inspect lenses & reflectors (clean, not broken), lights (brake, tail, turn, flashers), and DOT reflective tape (secure and visible).