Getting Ahead of the Inspection
We’ve all had that moment, hearing that a DOT inspection is around the corner and suddenly wondering if everything is in order. No matter how well we maintain our fleet, the pressure of an upcoming inspection can still catch us off guard. That’s why we believe in taking a proactive approach. With our experience in Woodland fleet service, we know what inspectors tend to look for and more importantly, what issues are easy to overlook.
Brake Systems Are Always a Priority
One of the first places inspectors focus on is the braking system. It’s also one of the easiest systems to wear down quietly over time. We regularly check for worn brake pads, cracked hoses, and air leaks. Don’t wait until inspection day to find out the brakes aren’t holding pressure properly or that a hose is dangerously close to failing.
We’ve seen plenty of brake violations that could have been avoided with a 15-minute check.
Pay Attention to Tires and Wheels
Tires are another hot spot during DOT inspections. Balding treads, improper inflation, or uneven wear patterns can lead to citations. Inspectors will also take a close look at rims and lug nuts. If any are loose or cracked, they’ll mark it down. As part of our Woodland fleet service routine, we make tire checks part of every pre-trip and post-trip inspection.
Lighting and Reflectors Are Simple Fixes That Get Missed
Lighting issues are one of the top reasons for DOT violations and they’re also one of the easiest to fix ahead of time. We run a full check of every light on the vehicle: headlights, brake lights, turn signals, clearance lights, and reflectors. A single burned-out bulb can be enough to get flagged. Replacing it takes five minutes. Skipping it could cost you a lot more.
Underrated Checks That Go a Long Way
Some inspection points don’t get as much attention, but they can still lead to violations if missed. Here’s a checklist we follow before every DOT inspection:
- Windshield wipers in good working order and no streaking
- Properly mounted fire extinguisher (charged and accessible)
- Current registration, insurance, and permits onboard
- Seatbelts functioning and free of cuts or frays
- Horn and dashboard indicators working properly
Each of these may seem small on its own, but together they show an inspector that the vehicle is
Don’t Forget the Paperwork
A clean, well-maintained vehicle can still get citations if the paperwork isn’t in order. That includes:
- Driver’s logs (if required)
- Inspection reports
- Proof of repairs from past inspections
When we perform Woodland fleet service checks, we review every piece of documentation. Missing a single report could lead to trouble during an inspection.
Using Our Woodland Fleet Service to Stay Ready
What we’ve learned over time is that staying inspection ready all year long, not just right before inspection day, is the best approach. Our team’s experience with Woodland fleet service has shown that a consistent maintenance schedule helps catch problems before they become citations.
We look at every truck like it’s going in for an inspection tomorrow. That way, nothing gets skipped, and no one’s rushing at the last minute. Most importantly, it means safer vehicles on the road.
We’ve had customers come in days before their DOT inspections feeling nervous, and they leave with confidence after we go through everything with them. When you focus on the basics, inspections become less about luck and more about preparation.
Woodland Fleet Service by Bigler Boyz: Hire the Experts to Keep Your Fleet Moving!
DOT inspections are a part of the job, but they don’t have to be a source of stress. By staying on top of issues with routine checks and trusting the Woodland fleet service experts, you can reduce your chances of surprises during inspection day.
Bigler Boyz Truck & Trailer Repair has been helping operators stay inspection-ready for years. Our experienced team handles everything from preventive maintenance to emergency repairs, all with the goal of keeping your fleet on the road. When you work with us, you’re working with people who know trucks and care about your business.
Let’s keep those trucks moving and those violations off your record.
