Your Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

A consistent pre-trip inspection is one of the best ways to catch small issues before they become roadside breakdowns or violations. Here's a simple walk-around routine.

• Engine compartment: check oil, coolant and power steering fluid levels, belts and hoses.
• Cab: test gauges, horn, wipers, mirrors and the parking brake.
• Lights and reflectors: confirm headlights, markers, turn signals and brake lights all work.
• Brakes: check air pressure build-up, listen for leaks, and inspect slack adjusters and lines.
• Tires and wheels: look for proper inflation, tread depth, cuts and loose lug nuts.
• Coupling: verify the fifth wheel is locked and the kingpin is secure.

Keep a printed checklist in every cab. If anything doesn't look right, our service department offers same-day diagnostics to get you back on the road quickly.