Free Pre Trip Inspection Checklist PDF Form

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a crucial tool used by drivers to ensure their vehicles are safe and roadworthy before embarking on a journey. This checklist helps identify any potential issues that could compromise safety, allowing for timely repairs and maintenance. By following this form, drivers can take proactive steps to protect themselves and others on the road.

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Before embarking on any journey, especially in commercial transportation, ensuring that a vehicle is in optimal condition is paramount for safety and compliance. The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist serves as a vital tool in this process, guiding drivers through a systematic evaluation of their vehicle. This checklist typically encompasses several critical components, including an assessment of the engine, brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels, among others. Each section prompts the driver to examine specific aspects, ensuring that nothing is overlooked. By methodically addressing these elements, drivers can identify potential issues before they escalate, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and mechanical failures on the road. Additionally, completing this checklist not only promotes safety but also helps maintain regulatory compliance, which is essential for commercial drivers. The form serves as a record of diligence, demonstrating that proper care has been taken to ensure the vehicle's readiness for travel. In essence, the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is more than just a form; it embodies a commitment to safety and responsibility in transportation.

Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Sample

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

Documents used along the form

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a crucial document for ensuring vehicle safety and compliance before operation. However, several other forms and documents complement this checklist, providing a comprehensive approach to vehicle management and safety protocols.

Vehicle Maintenance Log: This document records all maintenance activities performed on a vehicle, including oil changes, tire rotations, and repairs. It helps track the vehicle's condition over time.
Driver's Daily Log: This log is used by drivers to document their hours of service, including driving time and rest breaks. It is essential for compliance with federal regulations regarding driving limits.
Accident Report Form: In the event of an accident, this form captures details such as the time, location, and circumstances of the incident. It is vital for insurance claims and legal purposes.
Notice to Quit Form - This essential document informs tenants of a landlord's intent to terminate tenancy, ensuring clarity in the eviction process. More information can be found at Illinois Templates PDF.
Fuel Purchase Receipt: This document provides proof of fuel purchases made for the vehicle. It is important for tracking fuel expenses and can assist in budgeting and cost analysis.
Vehicle Registration Document: This official document proves that a vehicle is registered with the state. It includes important information such as the vehicle identification number (VIN) and ownership details.
Insurance Policy Document: This document outlines the coverage provided by the vehicle's insurance policy. It includes details about liability limits, coverage types, and terms of service.

Utilizing these forms and documents in conjunction with the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist enhances safety and compliance. Together, they create a robust framework for vehicle management and accountability.

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Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return - Employers can e-file Form 941, making the submission process more efficient.

The Missouri Articles of Incorporation form is a vital step in establishing your business, and for more guidance on this process, you can find helpful resources at Missouri PDF Forms.

Lyft Help Center - Evaluate the vehicle's suspension system for any irregularities.

Progress Notes Medical Definition - Patient’s progress towards functional goals assessed.

Key takeaways

Filling out and utilizing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is essential for ensuring safety and compliance before hitting the road. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

Thoroughness is Key: Each section of the checklist should be completed with attention to detail. A comprehensive inspection can prevent potential issues during the trip.
Document Everything: Make sure to document all findings, whether they are positive or negative. This creates a record that can be useful for future reference and accountability.
Check for Compliance: Ensure that all aspects of the vehicle meet regulatory requirements. This includes lights, brakes, tires, and other critical systems.
Use a Consistent Approach: Follow the same process each time the checklist is completed. Consistency helps in identifying recurring issues and maintaining vehicle performance.
Involve the Driver: Encourage drivers to actively participate in the inspection. Their familiarity with the vehicle can provide insights that may be overlooked.
Address Issues Promptly: If any problems are identified, take immediate action to resolve them. Delaying repairs can lead to more significant issues and safety risks.
Train Staff: Provide training on how to properly fill out the checklist. Understanding the importance of each item can enhance the effectiveness of the inspection.
Review Regularly: Periodically review the completed checklists to identify trends or common issues. This can inform maintenance schedules and improve overall vehicle safety.

By following these guidelines, the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist can serve as a valuable tool for maintaining vehicle safety and compliance.

Form Overview

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is designed to ensure that all necessary vehicle components are checked before departure to promote safety on the road.
Components	The checklist typically includes items such as brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels, among others, to ensure vehicle readiness.
Frequency	Drivers are required to complete this inspection before each trip to comply with federal and state regulations.
Governing Laws	In the United States, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates the use of a Pre Trip Inspection Checklist under 49 CFR Part 396.
Documentation	Completed checklists must be retained for a specific period, typically 3 months, for regulatory compliance and safety audits.
Driver Accountability	The checklist holds drivers accountable for the condition of their vehicles, promoting a culture of safety within the transportation industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form?

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a document used by drivers to ensure that their vehicle is safe and ready for operation before hitting the road. This checklist helps identify any potential issues that could affect the vehicle's performance or safety. It typically includes various components of the vehicle that need to be inspected, such as brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels.

Why is a Pre Trip Inspection important?

A Pre Trip Inspection is crucial for several reasons:

Safety: Ensuring that the vehicle is in good working condition helps prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures.
Legal Compliance: Many states require drivers to perform and document these inspections to comply with transportation regulations.
Cost-Effective: Catching issues early can save money on repairs and avoid costly downtime.

Who is responsible for completing the Pre Trip Inspection?

The driver of the vehicle is primarily responsible for completing the Pre Trip Inspection. It is their duty to ensure that all necessary checks are performed. However, fleet managers or supervisors may also encourage or require drivers to fill out the checklist as part of company policy.

What should be included in the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?

A comprehensive Pre Trip Inspection Checklist typically includes the following items:

Brakes: Check for proper function and any unusual noises.
Lights: Ensure all headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are working.
Tires: Inspect for proper inflation and tread depth.
Fluid Levels: Check oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels.
Windshield Wipers: Ensure they are functioning and that the wiper fluid is filled.

How often should the Pre Trip Inspection be performed?

The Pre Trip Inspection should be performed every time the vehicle is used. This means that before each trip, drivers should take the time to complete the checklist. Regular inspections help maintain vehicle safety and ensure compliance with regulations.

Click for Pre Trip Inspection Checklist PDF

Misconceptions

Many individuals have misunderstandings about the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form. Here are six common misconceptions:

It is only for commercial drivers. While this checklist is often associated with commercial vehicles, it is beneficial for all drivers. Personal vehicles can also benefit from regular inspections to ensure safety.
It is optional. Some drivers believe that completing the checklist is not mandatory. In reality, it is a crucial part of vehicle safety and, in many jurisdictions, a legal requirement for commercial drivers.
It takes too much time. Many think that conducting a pre-trip inspection is time-consuming. However, with practice, it can be done efficiently and often takes less than 15 minutes.
Only mechanics need to perform inspections. This is a common belief. However, drivers should be familiar with the checklist and able to perform basic inspections themselves.
It covers only the exterior of the vehicle. Some people think the checklist only pertains to external components. In fact, it also includes checks on the interior, such as ensuring that all controls and safety equipment are functioning.
It's unnecessary if the vehicle looks fine. Just because a vehicle appears to be in good condition does not mean it is safe to drive. The checklist helps identify hidden issues that may not be immediately visible.

Understanding these misconceptions can lead to safer driving practices and better vehicle maintenance.