As a trucker, one of the tasks you’ll repeat the most often throughout your career is a pre-trip CDL inspection. Pre-trip CDL inspections are required at the beginning of each day, every 24 hours, any time you pick up a new trailer, and after 10-hour breaks. Pre-trip inspections are necessary for maximizing safety while on the road.
Going through a pre-trip inspection can feel like a chore, but it will help keep you safe and will catch problems with your truck early on before permanent damage ensues. There are seven tasks that make up a pre-trip inspection, and we’ll break them down one by one. Consider this your ultimate pre-trip inspection guide.
Vehicle Overview
The first step in a pre-trip inspection is a vehicle overview. During the vehicle overview, check for any new or unusual wear and tear on the vehicle, as well as check for any unexplained leaks underneath the truck.
Review that DVIR from the last trip, and review the overall condition of the vehicle. Write down any concerns and make sure they are taken care of before you leave.
Engine Compartment
Checking your engine is the next thing to complete for your pre-trip inspection. Check the levels of all engine fluids while looking for any leaks. You should also check on the alternator, water pump, compressor belts, and air conditioning system. Start your engine and listen for any unusual sounds.
Inside the Cab
Inside the cab, you should check that all of your gauges, warning lights, and other signals are working correctly. Check the wipers and mirrors, and make sure they are positioned correctly. Make sure that your fire extinguisher and first aid kit are nearby in case of an emergency.
Lights
Truckers often work hours that have them driving when it’s dark outside, so having working lights is extremely important. Checking your lights is the next step on your pre-trip inspection checklist. Turn off your engine and check your headlights, flasher, running lights, and high beams.
Walkaround
A vehicle walk-around is vital to any pre-trip inspection. You should inspect each wheel and axle, suspension component, fuel tank area, exhaust system, and steering system. Also, check the reflectors and lamps.
Signal Lights
Signal lights that aren’t working can be a huge hazard for truckers and the drivers they share the road with. Make sure that your signals and brake lights are working properly. When checking your brake lights, it may be helpful to ask for someone else’s help.
Brake System
The last step in a pre-trip inspection is checking the brake system. Drive forward a little bit to test the brakes. Be sure to check your parking brake works properly as well.
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