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✅ Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

DOT-compliant checklist — work through every section before you roll. Your progress saves automatically in this browser session.

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Engine oil level — on dipstick, no leaks below
Coolant level — full, no leaks or discoloration
Power steering fluid — full, no leaks
Windshield washer fluid — full
Belts and hoses — no cracks, fraying, or excessive wear
Battery — secure, no corrosion on terminals
Alternator — properly mounted, wiring intact

Mirrors — clean, properly adjusted, no cracks
Windshield — no obstructions or cracks in driver's line of sight
Wipers — operational, blades in good condition
Horn — sounds properly
Heater/defroster — operational
Warning lights — no active fault codes (ABS, engine, etc.)
Gauges — oil pressure, water temp, voltmeter, fuel all normal
Seat belt — functional latch, no fraying
Emergency triangles / flares — present and accessible
Fire extinguisher — charged, properly mounted
Required documents — CDL, registration, insurance, IFTA

Headlights — low and high beam operational
Tail lights — both sides operational
Brake lights — all three (left, right, center) operational
Turn signals — front and rear, both sides
Hazard flashers — operational
Marker lights — amber front, red rear, all operational
Clearance lights — top and sides operational
Reflectors — present and clean
Trailer electrical connection — secure, no damage

Air pressure — builds to governor cutoff (~120–125 PSI), holds
Low air warning — activates at ~60 PSI
Spring brakes — activate at ~20–40 PSI
Brake pedal — no more than 1 inch play, no sponginess
Parking brake — holds truck on grade
Trailer brake hand valve — operational
Slack adjusters — not more than 1 inch travel (auto-adjusters)
Brake drums/rotors — no cracks, excessive heat marks
Brake hoses — no chafing, leaks, or kinks
Steering wheel — no more than 10° free play
Steering linkage — tight, no loose or missing parts

Tire pressure — correct PSI (check placard), properly inflated
Tread depth — at least 4/32" steers, 2/32" drives
Tire sidewalls — no bulges, cuts, or exposed cord
Lug nuts — all present, properly torqued, no rust streaks
Wheel rims — no cracks, bends, or damage
Valve stems — caps present, stems not bent
No flat or underinflated tires

Fuel level — sufficient for trip or first leg
Fuel tank caps — secure, no leaks
DEF (if applicable) — adequate level
No visible fuel leaks under vehicle
No visible oil or coolant leaks

Fifth wheel — properly coupled, safety latch engaged, no gap
Trailer air lines — properly connected, no air leaks
Landing gear — fully raised and secured
Cargo — properly loaded, secured, and not overweight
Cargo doors — securely latched/locked
Trailer lights — all operational (see Lights section)
Mud flaps — present and secure
Trailer tires — see Tires section

This checklist is for reference purposes. Always follow your carrier's specific pre-trip procedures and applicable FMCSA regulations.

🚛 How I Survived Becoming a Truck Driver

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