Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control
What the examiner expects
A pre-trip inspection is a systematic walk-around, not a spot check. Learn a fixed order (front, right side, rear, left side, then under the hood and into the cab) so you never skip a component. You must be able to name what you are checking and the failure condition that would put the bus out of service: cracked brake drums or worn linings, air loss beyond the allowable rate, low coolant or oil, frayed belts, cracked lenses, insecure battery hold-downs, damaged exhaust, and tire tread or sidewall defects.
Traps in questions
The classic trap is confusing a cosmetic defect with a safety defect. A scratched panel is not a reason to refuse the bus; a cracked brake line is. Another trap is the air-brake test sequence: questions often scramble the order of the static leak test, applied leak test, and low-pressure warning check. Remember the low-air warning must activate before pressure falls too far, and the spring brakes must apply automatically as pressure drops. Also know the difference between a leak-down rate limit and a build-up time requirement.
Basic control
Smooth steering, progressive braking, and correct mirror use are tested. School buses have large blind spots and a long wheelbase, so off-tracking on turns and tail swing are frequent question topics.
Rule of thumb
If a defect affects steering, braking, tires, lights, or the ability to see and be seen, treat it as out of service until corrected. Walk the bus the same way every time; consistency catches what memory misses.