Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control
What the exam tests
Vehicle Inspection and Basic Control tests whether you can identify unsafe equipment before moving and demonstrate a safe, deliberate start. The pre-trip is not a memorized chant; you must explain what you check, why it matters, and what defect would place the vehicle out of service.
Core inspection and control rules
- Use a consistent walk-around sequence: overview, engine compartment, cab and controls, lights and reflectors, tires and wheels, suspension and steering, brake system, coupling, emergency equipment, and load securement.
- Check fluid levels, belts, hoses, leaks, steering play, spring mounts, lug nuts, tread depth, sidewalls, and brake components. Federal minimum tread is 4/32 inch on front tires and 2/32 inch on other tires.
- Secure the cab: seat, mirrors, seat belt, gauges, parking brake. Start the engine, check warning lights, build air pressure, test the service brake and parking brake before moving.
- Signal, check mirrors and blind spots, release the parking brake only when ready, and move smoothly.
Worked example
A front steer tire measures 3/32 inch. It is above the 2/32 general minimum but below the 4/32 front-axle minimum, so it is out of service. A drive tire at 3/32 inch meets the 2/32 minimum but still needs inspection for cuts, bulges, and exposed cord.
Traps that cost marks
Skipping emergency equipment, failing to verbalize why a defect matters, forgetting the parking-brake test, and checking tires only for tread while ignoring sidewall damage. Do not move a vehicle with a low-air warning or an unresolved brake defect.