What To Look For In Tractor Trailer Yearly Inspection?

What does an annual DOT inspection consist of?

A level 1 inspection, or the North American Standard Inspection, is the most thorough DOT inspection. It’s a detailed inspection of both the truck and the truck driver. The inspector will examine your seat belt, tail lamps, steering wheel, exhaust system, and everything required for driving safely.

What should a tractor inspection begin with?

Identify any general vehicle damage or deterioration. Check mirrors and windows are free of cracks or damage and are properly secured. Ensure lamps and reflectors are undamaged and functioning properly. Inspect suspension system for air leaks, missing or broken fasteners or spring leaf.

What will fail a DOT inspection?

If there is a problem, the “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” light may be on. If the light is on when you come in for inspection, the vehicle will fail the test. The Check Engine light is malfunctioning. The diagnostic connector is missing, damaged, or not functioning.

How do I pass a DOT inspection?

3 Tips for Passing a DOT Level 1 Inspection

1. Keep Your Paperwork Organized.
2. Conduct Preventive Maintenance on your Truck.
3. Maintain a Positive Attitude Throughout the Inspection.

Can DOT search your sleeper?

Checking for sleeper restraints, and bedclothes don’t require a search. You can see those things standing on the step of the truck and even if they want to get in to check them that’s all they can check. They can ‘t go looking through your personal belongings or cabinets etc.. which is a search.

What are the DOT inspection levels?

The Differences Between the Six Levels of DOT Inspections

• Level I: North American Standard Inspection.
• Level II: Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection.
• Level III: Driver-Only Inspection.
• Level IV: Special Inspections.
• Level V: Vehicle-Only Inspection.
• Level VI: Enhanced NAS Inspection for Radioactive Shipments.

How often do you need to do a pre-trip inspection?

As a driver, you are required by law to inspect your truck and trailer before the start of your shift and once within every 24 hours while on the road. It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure the vehicle is safe for operation and is free from defects.

What are 2 things you do before starting the tractor?

Before starting tractor:

• Check all fluid levels. Engine oil. Coolant. Fuel. Hydraulic fluid.
• Tires and wheels. Properly inflated. Check the operator’s manual. Check tires for cuts or breaks in the tread or sidewalls.
• Batteries. Securely held down. Connections are clean. Electrolyte level is good.
• General Condition.

How long do you have to keep pre-trip inspection?

Carriers must keep inspection reports for six months.

What is a Level 5 DOT inspection?

The level five DOT inspection involves only the vehicle inspection from the level one DOT inspection. The vehicle-only inspection includes brakes, fuel, cargo, exhaust, steering, lighting, suspensions, tires, steering wheel, trailer, windshield wipers, emergency exits, engine, and battery.

What is the highest level of DOT inspection?

The six levels of a DOT inspection are:

• Dot Inspection Software.
• Level I: North American Standard Inspection.
• Level II: Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection.
• Level III: Driver-Only Inspection.
• Level IV: Special Inspection.
• Level V: Vehicle-Only Inspection.
• Level VI: Enhanced NAS Inspection for Radioactive Shipments.

Can a DOT officer pull you over?

A DOT officer or state trooper can pull you over anywhere, including weigh stations, truck stops or on the side of the road. As a driver, it’s your responsibility to act in a professional manner throughout the process.

What happens if you fail a DOT safety audit?

Fail: If the FMCSA determines that the safety audit discloses that your basic safety management controls are inadequate, the agency will provide you written notice as soon as practicable—but not later than 45 days after the completion of the safety audit —that your DOT new entrant registration will be revoked and your

What does a Level 2 DOT inspection consist of?

As a minimum, Level II Inspections must include examination of: driver’s license; Medical Examiner’s Certificate and Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) Certificate (if applicable); alcohol and drugs; driver’s record of duty status as required; hours of service; seat belt; vehicle inspection report(s) (if applicable);

How do I prepare for DOT audit?

General DOT Information You must provide evidence and documentation of insurance for all your vehicles and the kind of cargo that the vehicles are transporting. This means you should prepare all proper forms, such as the MCS-90, for inspection. The DOT auditor will also want to see your company’s accident register.