Parts and Service >> Vehicle Inspection

• There are two reasons for pre-trip inspection of a vehicle
  • Safety - You need to see if the vehicle is safe.

  • It is the law - An unsafe vehicle can be removed from service until fixed.

• Type of vehicle inspection
  • Pre-Trip Inspection
    1. Look for tire problems:
       • Check for PROPER tire pressure
       • Mismatched tire sizes
       • Radial and bias-ply tires used together
       • Cuts or other damage to tires
       • Dual tires touching

    2. Look for wheel and rim problems
       • Damaged rims or wheels
       • Rust around wheel nuts - possible loose nuts
       • Missing clamps, spacers, studs or lugs
       • Mismatched, bent or cracked lock rings
       • Wheels or rims that have been welded

    3. Look for brake drum and shoe problems
       • Cracked drums
       • Shoes or pads with oil, grease or brake fluid on them
       • Shoes worn thin, missing or broken

    4. Look for suspension systems defect
       • Cracked or broken spring hangers
       • Missing or broken leaf springs
       • Spring hangers that allow axle to move
       • Broken leaves that might hit a tire or other part
       • Leaking shock absorbers
       • Axle positioning parts that are cracked, damaged or missing
       • Air suspension systems that are damaged or leaking
       • Frame members that are loose, cracked, broken or missing

  • During your trip you MUST
    1. Stop and inspect the following within the first 25 miles of a trip and every 150 miles or three hours when driving conditions are good.
       • Tires
       • Brakes for overheating
       • Lights
       • Connections and coupling to trailer
       • Cargo

  • After trip inspection and report
    Tells the vehicle owner and next driver something may need to be fixed.

If you find anything unsafe during the Pre-Trip Inspection, GET IT FIXED. Federal and State Laws forbid operating an unsafe vehicle.