5 Things That Fail a Truck Inspection (And How to Avoid Them)
semi-truck tire and safety check routine
For drivers, few things are more stressful than a roadside inspection. You never know when you’ll get pulled over, and you never know how long it will take. A clean pass means you’re back on the road quickly. A failed inspection? That can mean tickets, fines, downtime, missed loads — and in some cases, being put out of service.
The good news? Most inspection failures happen for small, preventable reasons. At Sounders Transport, we believe the best way to protect yourself is to build strong inspection habits and use simple tools that keep you organized.
That’s why we created a Pre-Trip Inspection Table that drivers can fill out before every trip. It helps ensure you’re driving safely and reduces your chances of getting hit with poor DOT violations.
Here are the five most common reasons trucks fail inspections — and how you can avoid them.
1. Brakes That Aren’t Up to Standard
Why They Fail:
Brakes are the #1 reason trucks get put out of service. Inspectors look for worn pads, leaks, and air pressure issues.
Common Issues:
Thin or worn brake pads
Air leaks in hoses or chambers
Out-of-adjustment brakes
Missing pins, clamps, or small components
How to Avoid It:
Check for hissing sounds and leaks during your pre-trip.
Make sure your air pressure builds correctly.
Log your findings in your Pre-Trip Table — it proves you’re paying attention.
2. Tires and Wheels
Why They Fail:
Tires are easy to spot — and easy to ticket. Low tread depth, damaged sidewalls, or missing lug nuts are quick violations.
Common Issues:
Tread depth below legal limit (4/32” steer, 2/32” other tires)
Sidewall bulges, cuts, or exposed cords
Under-inflated tires
Missing or loose lug nuts
How to Avoid It:
Use a digital gauge during your pre-trip, not just a kick.
Check for uneven wear — it often points to suspension issues.
Record tire pressure and tread condition in your Pre-Trip Table.
3. Lights and Signals
Why They Fail:
Lights may seem simple, but they’re one of the most common reasons for violations.
Common Issues:
Non-functioning turn signals or brake lights
Cracked or missing lenses
Damaged or exposed wiring
How to Avoid It:
Do a walk-around light check before every trip.
Keep spare bulbs and fuses in your cab.
Use the Pre-Trip Table checklist to confirm every light works.
4. Fluid Leaks
Why They Fail:
Inspectors look for drips or stains under your truck. Even small leaks are violations.
Common Issues:
Oil spots under the engine
Coolant leaking around hoses or radiator
Fuel seepage from tanks or lines
How to Avoid It:
Look under your truck during your pre-trip for fresh puddles.
Check your fluid levels daily.
Document in your Pre-Trip Table — proof you checked before rolling.
5. Paperwork and Logs
Why They Fail:
Even a truck in perfect condition can fail if your records aren’t in order.
Common Issues:
Incomplete ELD logs
Expired medical card
Missing or outdated permits
How to Avoid It:
Review your logs daily.
Keep paperwork organized in a single binder.
Use the Pre-Trip Table to confirm documents are current.
Why Our Pre-Trip Inspection Table Works
Inspections don’t have to be stressful — they just require consistency. Our Pre-Trip Inspection Table was designed to make this easy:
✔️ Helps drivers spot issues before they become violations
✔️ Acts as written proof that you checked your truck before hitting the road
✔️ Saves time during DOT inspections by showing you’re organized
✔️ Reduces fines, downtime, and stress
Think of it as a simple daily habit that protects your paycheck, your safety, and your reputation as a professional driver.
Download the Pre-Trip Inspection Table here
Final Thoughts
Truck inspections are part of the job — but failing them doesn’t have to be. By focusing on five key areas (brakes, tires, lights, fluids, and paperwork) and using tools like the Pre-Trip Inspection Table, drivers can stay safe, compliant, and confident on the road.
At Sounders Transport, we’re committed to supporting drivers with resources that make life on the road easier. Because when you win, we all win.