Common DOT Inspection Failures (and How to Avoid Them)

Common DOT Inspection Failures & How to Avoid Them

Every commercial truck driver knows that passing a DOT inspection is essential to staying on the road and avoiding costly fines or out-of-service orders. Yet, even experienced operators can get tripped up by overlooked maintenance issues or faulty components. At Tri State Truck & RV, we help drivers and fleet managers in the Chattanooga area stay compliant with DOT standards and keep their rigs running safely.

Let’s break down some of the most common reasons trucks fail DOT inspections and what you can do to avoid them.

1. Brake System Violations

The Problem: Worn brake pads, leaking air lines, low air pressure, or out-of-adjustment brake chambers are among the top reasons trucks are flagged during inspections.

How to Avoid It:

• Perform pre-trip brake checks daily.
• Schedule regular brake inspections and maintenance.
• Watch for signs like soft pedals, air leaks, or poor stopping power.
• Let Tri State inspect your entire brake system to ensure compliance with FMCSA standards.

2. Tire and Wheel Issues

The Problem: Bald tires, improper inflation, mismatched sizes, or damaged wheels are frequent red flags during inspections.

How to Avoid It:

• Check tire pressure and tread depth before every trip.
• Inspect for cuts, sidewall damage, or foreign objects.
• Rotate and balance tires regularly.
• Replace tires that are close to minimum tread limits to avoid surprise violations.

3. Lighting and Reflector Failures

The Problem: Burned-out lights, missing reflectors, or non-functioning turn signals are easy to miss but heavily enforced by DOT officers.

How to Avoid It:

• Walk around your truck before each haul and test all lights.
• Replace any broken or dim bulbs immediately.
• Check reflectors and reflective tape for visibility and cleanliness.

4. Suspension or Steering Deficiencies

The Problem: Cracked leaf springs, loose U-bolts, worn tie rods, and leaking shocks often go unnoticed until an inspection.

How to Avoid It:

• Include suspension and steering components in routine checks.
• If the truck pulls to one side, rides rough, or makes noise during turns, get it inspected.
• Let our techs at Tri State perform full undercarriage evaluations.

5. Leaking Fluids or Engine Defects

The Problem: Inspectors often cite vehicles for oil, coolant, or fuel leaks, as well as visible engine wear or corrosion.

How to Avoid It:

• Monitor all fluid levels regularly.
• Clean your engine bay so leaks can be easily spotted.
• Repair even minor leaks before they worsen.

6. Driver Paperwork and Logs

The Problem: Incomplete logbooks, expired medical cards, or missing inspection reports can trigger violations even if the truck itself passes.

How to Avoid It:

• Keep all paperwork current and neatly organized.
• Use electronic logging devices (ELDs) correctly.
• Ensure DVIRs (Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports) are completed and accessible.

7. Load Securement Problems

The Problem: Improperly secured cargo or worn tie-downs can result in failed inspections or worse, on-road accidents.

How to Avoid It:

• Use proper load straps, chains, and binders.
• Follow FMCSA load securement regulations for your specific cargo type.
• Re-check your load after the first 50 miles and periodically during long hauls.

Stay Ahead of DOT Inspections with Tri State Truck & RV

DOT inspections aren’t just about avoiding fines—they’re about safety for you and everyone on the road. At Tri State Truck & RV, we offer pre-DOT inspections, full-service repairs, and fleet maintenance to help keep your trucks compliant and reliable.

Visit us in Chattanooga or give us a call to schedule your inspection service today.