What gets looked at
A federal annual inspection covers the systems listed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): brakes, coupling devices, exhaust, fuel system, lighting, safe loading, steering, suspension, frame, tires, wheels and rims, and windshield and wipers. Have the inspection report kept with the truck as the regulations require.
What most often fails
- Brakes out of adjustment or air leaks you can hear with the engine off
- Lights: a single dead marker light or turn signal is a failure
- Tires with low tread, cuts or mismatched duals
- Steering play from worn tie rod ends and kingpins
- Cracked windshields in the driver's view
Walk-around before you come in
Ten minutes the day before saves a second trip: walk the truck with the lights and flashers on, listen for air leaks with the brakes released, check tire tread and pressure, and look under for fresh leaks. If something fails during the inspection, it can be repaired in the same visit so the truck leaves legal.
Explore this service on our main site or request a written repair estimate.