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Fill Your Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Form

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is a crucial tool used by drivers to ensure that their vehicles are safe and roadworthy before embarking on a journey. This checklist helps identify any potential issues that could compromise safety, thereby protecting both the driver and others on the road. By systematically reviewing each component of the vehicle, drivers can take proactive steps to address concerns before they lead to accidents or breakdowns.

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The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and operational readiness of vehicles, particularly in the transportation industry. This form typically includes a comprehensive list of items that drivers must inspect before embarking on a journey. Key areas of focus often encompass the vehicle's exterior, such as tires, lights, and mirrors, as well as essential components under the hood, including fluid levels and battery condition. Additionally, the checklist may address the functionality of safety equipment, like fire extinguishers and first aid kits. By systematically evaluating these aspects, drivers can identify potential issues that could lead to accidents or breakdowns, thereby promoting safer roadways. The form serves not only as a practical tool for individual drivers but also as a means for companies to comply with regulatory requirements and maintain fleet safety standards.

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Common Questions

What is a Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?

A Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is a document used by drivers to ensure that their vehicle is safe and roadworthy before embarking on a trip. This checklist typically includes various components of the vehicle, such as brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels, allowing drivers to identify any issues that may need attention.

Why is a Pre Trip Inspection Checklist important?

This checklist plays a crucial role in promoting safety on the road. By conducting a thorough inspection, drivers can detect potential problems early, reducing the risk of accidents and mechanical failures. It also helps in complying with legal requirements and maintaining the vehicle's overall condition.

Who should use the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?

Any driver operating a commercial vehicle, such as trucks or buses, should use the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. It is particularly essential for long-haul drivers and those responsible for transporting goods or passengers, ensuring that their vehicle is in optimal condition before hitting the road.

How often should the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist be completed?

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist should be completed before every trip. Regular inspections help maintain vehicle safety and performance, and they are often mandated by transportation regulations. Consistency in using the checklist fosters good habits among drivers.

What items are typically included in the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?

Common items on the checklist include checking the brakes, lights, tires, mirrors, windshield wipers, fluid levels, and overall vehicle condition. Each section of the checklist may have specific criteria to ensure that all critical components are assessed thoroughly.

Can the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist be customized?

Yes, the checklist can be customized to meet the specific needs of different vehicles or companies. While there are standard items that should always be included, additional checks may be added based on the type of vehicle or the nature of the trips being undertaken.

What should a driver do if they find an issue during the inspection?

If a driver identifies any issues during the inspection, they should address them immediately. This may involve repairing the problem, reporting it to a supervisor, or taking the vehicle out of service until it is safe to drive. Documenting any findings on the checklist is also essential for future reference.

Is there a specific format for the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?

While there is no universally mandated format, the checklist should be clear and easy to follow. Many companies provide their own templates that include sections for each vehicle component, space for notes, and a signature line for the driver. The goal is to ensure that all necessary checks are completed efficiently.

Preview - Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Form

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

FRONT OF TRACTOR

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS o Proper Color

o Working

o Not Broken o Not cracked

LEAKS

o Check for puddles

o Check for drips under engine

Lights

License Plate

Leaks

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - PASSENGER SIDE

WATER PUMP o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts o Hoses attached securely

o No leaking hoses or water pump o Belts no more than ¾ inch of play

o Belts not cracked, frayed, or damaged

ALTERNATOR

o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts

oWires good connections, not frayed

oBelt no more than ¾ inch of play

oBelts not frayed or cracked

OIL LEVEL

oCheck for level and condition

PLUS ALL OTHER HOSES & WIRING

oNot cracked, frayed, or broken

oBelts no more than ¾ inch of play o Hoses not leaking

Engine Air Duct Work

Oil Dip Stick

Oil Fill

	Accessory Drive
	Belts
	Water Pump
Turbo Charger	Alternator

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE

COOLANT

oCheck for level and condition

oHoses attached and not leaking

POWER STEERING RESERVOIR

oMounted properly

oHoses attached and not leaking

oCheck for level and condition

AIR COMPRESSOR

oMounted Securely

oNo missing bolts or parts

oNo air leaks at lines

oCheck if gear or belt driven

oBelt no more than ¾ inch of play

oBelts not cracked or frayed

STEERING GEAR BOX

oMounted properly

oNo missing parts, nuts or bolts o Lines and hoses not leaking or broken

	Engine Coolant
	Reservoir
	Windsheild
	Washer Fluid
	Reservoir
Engine Air Duct
Work
Power Steering
Reservoir	Radiator Brace
	Radiator Brace
Steering Gear
Box
Pitman Arm

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR	ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T
 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR
o Mounted properly
o Hoses attached and not leaking
o Check for level and condition
 AIR COMPRESSOR
o Mounted Securely	Power Steering
o No missing bolts or parts	Power Steering
o No missing bolts or parts	Reservoir
o No air leaks at lines
o Check if gear or belt driven
o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play
o Belts not cracked or frayed
 STEERING GEAR BOX	Steering Gear
 STEERING GEAR BOX	Box
o Mounted properly
o No missing parts, nuts or bolts
o Lines and hoses not leaking or	Pitman Arm
broken	Pitman Arm
broken
 STEERING LINKAGE
o Pitman arm, Drag link, Steering
knuckle, Tie rods and tie rod ends
o Not cracked, bent or broken	Spring Mount	Drag Link	Leaf Spring
o Castle nuts and cotter pins
o Not missing and in place

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Governor

Air Compressor

Engine Oil Pan

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

AIR COMPRESSOR o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts o No air leaks at lines

o Check if gear or belt driven

o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play o Belts not cracked or frayed

STEERING GEAR BOX

o Mounted properly

oNo missing parts, nuts or bolts o Lines and hoses not leaking or broken

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T

Engine Air Duct

Work

Fan Belts

Gear Driven Air

Compressor

Steering U-Joints

Steering Column

Additional Hoses & Wiring

Shock Absorber

Steering Gear Box	Frame Rail	Fuel Filter
Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items		Reference Items

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - AIR COMPRESSOR

AIR COMPRESSOR o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts o No air leaks at lines

o Check if gear or belt driven

o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play o Belts not cracked or frayed

Air Governor

Gear Driven Air Compressor

Hoses

Fuel Pump

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

FRONT SUSPENSION

LEAF SPRINGS

o Not shifted or out of place

oNot cracked, broken or missing

SPRING MOUNTS

oMounted securely- front, back, and U-blots

oNot cracked or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

oMounted Securely

oNot bent or dented o Not leaking

Shock Absorber

Leaf Spring

Tie Rod

Air Hose

Air LIne

Tie Rod End

U-Bolts

Axle

Service Brake

Chamber

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

LEAF SPRINGS

o Not shifted or out of place

oNot cracked, broken or missing

SPRING MOUNTS

oMounted securely- front, back, and U-blots

oNot cracked or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

oMounted Securely

oNot bent or dented o Not leaking

FRONT SUSPENSION CON’T

Frame Rail

U-Bolt

Leaf Spring

Air Dryer location varies depending on model.

Located either behind the front bumper or behind the fuel tank.

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Spring Mount

Air Dryer

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

 HOSES AND LINES			FRONT BRAKES
 HOSES AND LINES
o Mounted securely		Service Brake
o	Not leaking	Service Brake
o	Not cracked or frayed	Chamber
o	Not cracked or frayed		Tire
			Tire
 CHAMBER		Push Rod
o Mounted securely
o Not dented or damaged			Wheel
o	Not leaking
 SLACK ADJUSTER			Slack Adjuster
o	No more than 1 inch of free play at	Castle Nut
the push rod with the brakes released.		Cotter Pin	Adjustment Nut
o	Not bent, broken, loose, or missing		Adjustment Nut
o	Not bent, broken, loose, or missing
parts		Steering
		Knuckle	Brake Drum
 DRUMS			Brake Drum
 DRUMS
o	Not cracked, broken or dented
o	No oil leaking from inner oil seal,	Snap Ring
free of debris			Brake Lining
 LININGS

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts o Not less than ¼ inch in thickness

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

HOSES AND LINES o Mounted securely o Not leaking

o Not cracked or frayed

CHAMBER

o Mounted securely

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

SLACK ADJUSTER

oNo more than 1 inch of free play at the push rod with the brakes released.

oNot bent, broken, loose, or missing parts

DRUMS

oNot cracked, broken or dented

oNo oil leaking from inner oil seal, free of debris

LININGS

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts

oNot less than ¼ inch in thickness

FRONT BRAKES CON’T

Service Brake

Chamber

Push Rod

Clevis Pin &

Cotter Pin

Slack Adjuster

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Line

Air Hose

Shock Absorber

U-Bolt

Spring

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

FRONT WHEEL

TIRES

oProper inflation – company or manufacturer specification

o No bulges, cuts, or retreads

o Minimum tread depth of 4/32”

RIMS

oNot bent, cracked, No welding repairs.

LUG NUTS

oNone are missing

oTight – no shinny threads, or rust trails

OUTER HUB OIL SEALS

oNot leaking, no missing bolts o Proper oil level

	Tire	Wheel
	Hub Oil	Lug Nut
	Reservior	Lug Nut
	Reservior
	Outer Hub	Valve Cap
	Oil Seal

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

DRIVER FUEL AREA

DRIVER’S DOOR

oDoor opens and closes properly

oSeal is in good condition

DRIVER’S MIRRORS

oClean and free of obstruction

oNot cracked, broken, or damaged

oMounted securely

FUEL TANK

oMounted securely

o Not leaking

o Seal in cap OK

Mirror

Storage

Compartment

Door

Cap & Seal

Battery Box &

Cover

Saddle Mounts	Leaks
Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items	Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

AIR LINES & ELECTRIC LINE o Not cracked, frayed, cut, or kinked o Mounted securely at the glad hands o Not leaking

BEHIND THE CAB

BATTERY BOX & BATTERIES o Box is mounted properly

o Batteries are secure in the box o Lid secure

o Connections not corroded

CATWALK

o Mounted properly

oNot, missing, or damaged

oFree of obstructions

DRIVE SHAFT

oNot bent, or damaged

oCoupling, U-joints appear secure

EXHAUST SYSTEM

oSecurely mounted

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

FRAME

oNot cracked, or damaged

oNo missing bolts

oNo illegal welds

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS

oClean and working

Lights &
Reflectors
Electrical Line	Exhaust
Glad Hand
Service &
Emergency
Airlines	Drive Shaft
	Drive Shaft
Battery Box &
Batteries
Frame	Catwalk

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

FRONT OF TRAILER

HEADER BOARD

oNo holes or missing rivets

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS

oNone broken, cracked, or missing

oWorking and proper color of amber

Lights

Header Board

Height Sticker

Electric Hookup

Air Line

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION

CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely

o Not bent, broken or damaged

CONTROLARM

oMounted securely – front, back, and

U-bolts

o Not cracked, or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

o Mounted Securely

oNot bent, dented or leaking

TORSION BAR

oMounted Securely

oNot bent, broken or damaged

AIR BAGS

oMounted Securely

o Not leaking

Spring Brake	Torsion Bar
Spring Brake
Chamber	Control Arm
	Control Arm
Spring Brake
Chamber	Air Bag
	Air Bag
	Control Arm
	Mount
Control Arm

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION CON’T & FIFTH WHEEL

CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely

o Not bent, broken or damaged

CONTROLARM

oMounted securely – front, back, and

U-bolts

o Not cracked, or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

o Mounted Securely

oNot bent, dented or leaking

TORSION BAR

oMounted Securely

oNot bent, broken or damaged

AIR BAGS

oMounted Securely

o Not leaking

Skid Plate
	Shock Absorber
Mounting
Bolts
Locking	Spring
Locking
Pins
Control Arm	Air Bag
Control Arm
Mount
	Tire
Control Arm
	Space

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

HOSES AND LINES o Mounted securely o Not leaking

o Not cracked or frayed

CHAMBER

o Mounted securely

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

SLACK ADJUSTER

oNo more than 1 inch of free play at the push rod with the brakes released.

oNo bent, broken, loose, or missing parts

DRUMS

oNot cracked, broken or dented

oNo oil leaking from inner oil seal, free of debris

LININGS

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts

oNot less than ¼ inch in thickness

DRIVE BRAKES & DRIVE SHAFT

Drive Shaft

Universal Joint

Differential

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Line

Service Brake Chamber

Frame

Brake Chamber Mount

Slack Adjuster

TIRES

oProper inflation - company or manufacturer specification.

o No bulges or cuts, can have retreads o Minimum tread depth of 2/32”

RIMS

oNot bent or cracked

oNo welding repairs

LUG NUTS

oNone missing

oTight – no shinny threads, or rust trails

OUTER AXLE SEAL

oNot leaking, no missing bolts

SPACE OR SPACER

oCheck for objects between wheels

oCheck for proper spacing

Lug Nuts

Outer Axle Seal

DRIVE WHEELS

Tire

Bud Rim

Dayton Rim	Spacer
Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items	Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

REAR OF TRACTOR

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS o Not cracked, or broken

o Working and proper color

SPLASH GUARDS

oNot missing or torn and properly mounted

Locking Jaws
	Reflectors
	Lights
Splash Guard	Air Bags

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

MOUNTING BOLTS

oNone missing or broken

RELEASE ARM

oNot bent, broken, or damaged

oEngaged in the lock position

LOCKING PINS

oNo missing or broken parts

oEngaged and locked

PLATFORM

oSecurely holds skid plate

oNot cracked, or broken

SKID PLATE

oMounted properly on the platform

oProperly greased

oTilting freely

Mounting Bolts

Slide Stops (all 4 corners)

COUPLING SYSTEM

Skid Plate

Pivot Pin

Release Arm

Platform

 KING PIN

Welds

oNot broken, bent, or damaged

APRON

oNo bends or damage to visible portions

GAP

oCheck that the trailer apron is lying flat on the fifth wheel skid plate

Frame

Slide Locking Pin

Spring Mount

 JAWS	Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items	Reference Items
 JAWS
o Check that the locking jaws are fully
closed around the shank of the king pin	10

Similar forms

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is an essential tool used primarily by drivers and operators of vehicles, especially in commercial transportation. Its purpose is to ensure that all necessary safety checks are conducted before a vehicle is used. There are several other documents that share similarities with this checklist in terms of purpose, structure, and function. Here are six such documents:

Vehicle Maintenance Log: This document tracks regular maintenance and repairs performed on a vehicle. Like the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, it helps ensure that a vehicle remains in safe operating condition by documenting checks and services over time.
Prenuptial Agreement Form: This legal document is created by couples before marriage to outline asset division and responsibilities, ensuring clarity and reducing potential conflicts similar to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist's focus on safety and preparedness. For more information, visit Ohio PDF Forms.
Daily Vehicle Inspection Report: This report is completed at the end of each day to summarize any issues found during inspections. It serves a similar function to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist by ensuring that any problems are noted and addressed promptly.
Safety Inspection Report: Conducted by authorized personnel, this report assesses a vehicle's compliance with safety standards. Both documents aim to identify potential hazards and ensure safety before operation.
Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR): Required by federal regulations, this report is completed by drivers to document any defects or deficiencies found during inspections. It parallels the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist in its focus on vehicle safety and condition.
Incident Report Form: Used to document accidents or safety incidents involving a vehicle, this form can be compared to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist in that it aims to promote safety and accountability in vehicle operation.
Equipment Inspection Checklist: This checklist is used for various types of equipment, ensuring they are safe for use. Similar to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, it focuses on identifying potential issues before operation.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form can lead to misunderstandings about its importance and use. Here are nine common misconceptions:

It’s optional for drivers. Many believe that completing the checklist is not mandatory. However, it is a legal requirement for commercial drivers to perform a pre-trip inspection to ensure safety on the road.
It only applies to large trucks. Some think the checklist is only for big rigs. In reality, any commercial vehicle, regardless of size, should undergo a pre-trip inspection.
It’s a quick process that can be skipped. While some may view the inspection as a mere formality, it is crucial to take the time to thoroughly check the vehicle to prevent accidents.
Only mechanics need to complete the checklist. A common belief is that only trained mechanics can perform these inspections. In fact, drivers are trained to conduct these checks themselves.
It covers only the engine and tires. Many people think the checklist focuses solely on the engine and tires. However, it includes a comprehensive review of all vehicle systems, including lights, brakes, and safety equipment.
It’s the same every time. Some assume the checklist is static and doesn’t change. In truth, conditions can vary, and drivers should adapt their inspections based on the specific vehicle and any recent repairs.
It doesn’t need to be documented. There’s a misconception that verbal inspections are sufficient. Documentation is essential to provide proof that an inspection was conducted and to track any issues.
It’s only for long hauls. Some believe that only drivers on long trips need to perform a pre-trip inspection. However, every trip, regardless of length, requires this important safety check.
It’s a waste of time. Many think that the inspection is unnecessary and slows them down. In reality, it saves time and lives by identifying potential issues before they become serious problems.

Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure that all drivers prioritize safety and compliance through proper pre-trip inspections.

File Attributes

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is designed to ensure that commercial vehicles are safe and roadworthy before they begin operation.
Components	This checklist typically includes sections for inspecting brakes, lights, tires, and other critical vehicle systems.
Frequency	Drivers are required to complete this checklist before every trip, as mandated by federal regulations.
Governing Law	In the United States, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the regulations governing the use of the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist.