Free Pre Trip Inspection Checklist PDF Template Open Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Editor Here

Free Pre Trip Inspection Checklist PDF Template

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a crucial tool used by drivers to ensure their vehicle is safe and roadworthy before embarking on a trip. This checklist helps identify any potential issues that could lead to accidents or breakdowns, promoting safety for both the driver and other road users. Make sure to fill out the form accurately by clicking the button below.

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Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is crucial for ensuring vehicle safety and compliance. Here are key takeaways to consider:

  1. Complete the checklist before every trip to identify potential issues early.
  2. Inspect all major components, including brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels.
  3. Document any defects or issues found during the inspection clearly.
  4. Sign and date the checklist to confirm that the inspection was completed.
  5. Keep the checklist on file for record-keeping and compliance purposes.
  6. Use the checklist as a training tool for new drivers to promote safety awareness.
  7. Review the checklist regularly to ensure it meets current safety standards.
  8. Encourage drivers to report any issues that arise during their trip, even if they were not noted in the checklist.
  9. Utilize the checklist to foster a culture of accountability and responsibility among drivers.

Adhering to these points will enhance safety and operational efficiency.

Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Preview

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

Engine Air Duct Work

Oil Dip Stick

Oil Fill

 

Accessory Drive

 

Belts

 

Water Pump

Turbo Charger

Alternator

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

1

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

 

Steering Gear

 

Box

 

Pitman Arm

 

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T

 

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

Box

 

 

o Mounted properly

 

 

 

o No missing parts, nuts or bolts

 

 

 

o Lines and hoses not leaking or

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

2

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

3

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

4

Spring Mount

Air Dryer

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

 HOSES AND LINES

 

FRONT BRAKES

 

 

o Mounted securely

Service Brake

 

o

Not leaking

 

o

Not cracked or frayed

Chamber

 

 

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

 

 

 

parts

Steering

 

 

 

Knuckle

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

5

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

 

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

6

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

 

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

7

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

 

Chamber

Control Arm

 

Spring Brake

 

Chamber

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

 

Pins

 

Control Arm

Air Bag

 

Mount

 

 

Tire

Control Arm

 

 

Space

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

8

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

9

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

 

 

o Check that the locking jaws are fully

 

 

closed around the shank of the king pin

10

 

Similar forms

The Vehicle Inspection Report is similar to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist in that both documents serve to ensure the safety and functionality of a vehicle before it is operated. This report typically includes details about the condition of various vehicle components, such as brakes, lights, and tires. By documenting any issues, drivers can address potential safety hazards before hitting the road, which ultimately promotes safer driving practices.

The Daily Vehicle Inspection Log also shares similarities with the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. This log is used by drivers to record their observations and findings about the vehicle's condition on a daily basis. It emphasizes the importance of routine checks, allowing drivers to identify any changes or emerging problems that may arise from day-to-day use, thereby enhancing overall vehicle maintenance and safety.

The Maintenance Schedule is another document that complements the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. This schedule outlines regular service intervals for various vehicle components, such as oil changes and tire rotations. While the checklist focuses on immediate safety checks before a trip, the maintenance schedule ensures that vehicles receive timely upkeep, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and promoting longevity.

The Accident Report Form is a crucial document that, while serving a different purpose, relates to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist in terms of vehicle safety. This form is filled out after an accident occurs and includes details about the incident, vehicle conditions, and involved parties. Both documents emphasize the importance of vehicle safety and accountability, highlighting the need for proper inspection and maintenance to prevent accidents.

The Equipment Inspection Checklist is similar in that it is used to assess the condition of specific equipment before use. This checklist is often employed in various industries, including construction and transportation. Just like the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, it ensures that all equipment is functioning properly and meets safety standards, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents or malfunctions during operation.

The Driver's Daily Log is another document that complements the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. This log records a driver's hours of service, rest periods, and other essential information. While it does not directly assess vehicle condition, it plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with regulations that promote safe driving practices. Accurate logs help prevent fatigue-related incidents, thereby enhancing overall road safety.

In addition to vehicle safety checks, it's important to have a proper documentation process in place when buying or selling a vehicle. The Vehicle Bill of Sale form is essential for this transaction, providing a legal record that signifies the transfer of ownership. To obtain the necessary documentation, consider using the Vehicle Bill of Sale Forms, which streamline the process and ensure all legal requirements are met.

Lastly, the Safety Inspection Report is akin to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist as it provides a thorough evaluation of a vehicle's safety features and systems. This report is often required by regulatory agencies and includes detailed assessments of brakes, lights, and other critical components. Both documents aim to ensure that vehicles are safe for operation, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining high safety standards in transportation.

How to Use Pre Trip Inspection Checklist

Completing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is essential for ensuring safety and compliance before operating a vehicle. Follow these steps to accurately fill out the form, making sure to provide clear and precise information at each stage.

  1. Begin by entering the date of the inspection at the top of the form.
  2. Write down the vehicle identification number (VIN) for accurate record-keeping.
  3. List the make and model of the vehicle being inspected.
  4. Check off each item in the checklist, which typically includes brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels.
  5. For each item, note any issues or concerns. Use clear descriptions to explain any problems found.
  6. After completing the checklist, sign and date the form to confirm that the inspection has been conducted.
  7. Submit the completed form to the designated authority or keep it for your records, as required.

Documents used along the form

In addition to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form, several other documents are commonly utilized to ensure the safety and compliance of vehicles before they hit the road. Each of these forms serves a distinct purpose, contributing to a comprehensive safety protocol.

  • Driver's Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR): This report is completed by the driver after a trip. It documents any defects or issues found during the inspection of the vehicle. It ensures that all necessary repairs are communicated and addressed before the next trip.
  • Maintenance Log: This log records all maintenance activities performed on the vehicle, including routine checks and repairs. Keeping an accurate maintenance log helps track the vehicle's condition over time and ensures compliance with maintenance schedules.
  • Residential Contract: The Texas TREC Residential Contract form is essential for outlining the terms of sale in residential property transactions. To better understand the requirements and conditions, you can access the document here.
  • Fuel Purchase Receipt: This document records the details of fuel purchases made for the vehicle. It is essential for tracking fuel expenses and can assist in budgeting and financial reporting.
  • Accident Report Form: In the event of an accident, this form is used to document the incident. It includes details such as the time, location, and circumstances of the accident, along with any involved parties. This report is crucial for insurance claims and liability assessments.

Utilizing these documents in conjunction with the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form promotes a culture of safety and accountability. Together, they provide a comprehensive framework for vehicle management and driver responsibility.

Common mistakes

  1. Neglecting to check all required sections: Many individuals overlook specific areas of the checklist, such as the brakes, lights, and tires. Each section is crucial for ensuring safety on the road.

  2. Failing to document findings: Some people complete the checklist but do not write down any issues they encounter. Proper documentation is essential for addressing problems before departure.

  3. Rushing through the inspection: In an effort to save time, individuals may hurry through the checklist. This can lead to missed issues that could compromise safety.

  4. Using outdated forms: Using an old version of the checklist can result in missing new requirements or changes. Always ensure the most current form is being utilized.

  5. Ignoring minor issues: Some may dismiss small problems, thinking they are insignificant. However, minor issues can escalate into major safety concerns.

  6. Not verifying equipment functionality: Simply checking items off the list without testing their functionality can lead to surprises on the road. For example, lights should be tested to confirm they are operational.

  7. Overlooking the importance of a second pair of eyes: Conducting the inspection alone can lead to oversights. Having a colleague review the checklist can provide an additional layer of safety.

  8. Not signing and dating the checklist: Failing to sign and date the completed form can create confusion about when the inspection was performed. This step is important for accountability.

  9. Assuming everything is in order: Some individuals may believe that because the vehicle was recently inspected, it does not need another check. Regular inspections are necessary to ensure ongoing safety.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are some do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

  • Do read each section carefully before making any entries.
  • Do use clear and legible handwriting to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Do double-check your entries for accuracy after completing the form.
  • Do sign and date the form to confirm that the inspection was completed.
  • Don't rush through the checklist; take your time to ensure thoroughness.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; fill out all required fields.
  • Don't use abbreviations that may confuse others reviewing the form.
  • Don't ignore any issues found during the inspection; report them immediately.