CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Cab Check Engine Start

Last updated on September 27, 2022

The following is information that is required for your commercial driver’s license CDL pre-trip inspection cab check engine start.

CDL Pre Trip Inspection Cab Check Engine Start

Clutch/Gearshift

• Depress the clutch.
• Place the gearshift lever in neutral (or park, for automatic transmissions).
• Start the engine, then release the clutch slowly.

Oil Pressure Gauge

• Make sure the oil pressure gauge is working.
• Check that the pressure gauge shows increasing or normal oil pressure, or that the warning light goes off.
• If equipped, the oil temperature gauge should begin a gradual rise to the normal operating range.

Temperature Gauge

• Make sure the temperature gauge is working.
• The temperature should begin to climb to the normal operating range or the temperature light should be off.

Ammeter/Voltmeter

• Check that the gauges show the alternator and/or generator is charging or that the warning light is off.

Air/Vacuum Gauge

• Check for proper operation of, and acceptable readings on the air and/or vacuum gauge(s).

Speedometer

• The speedometer should be present, not obscured or obviously broken.

Mirrors and Windshield

• Mirrors should be clean and adjusted properly from the inside.
• Windshield should be clean with no illegal stickers, obstructions, or damage to the glass.

Emergency Equipment

• Check for spare electrical fuses.
• There must be three reflective triangles.
• Check for a properly charged and rated fire extinguisher.

Steering Play

• Non-power steering: Check for excessive play by turning the steering wheel back and forth. Play should not exceed 10 degrees (or about two inches on a 20-inch wheel).
• Power steering: With the engine running, check for excessive play by turning the steering wheel back and forth. Play should not exceed 10 degrees (or about two inches on a 20-inch wheel) before the front left wheel barely moves.

Wipers/Washers

• Check that wiper arms and blades are secure, not damaged, and operate smoothly.
• If equipped, windshield washers must operate correctly.

Lighting Indicators

Test that dash indicators work when the corresponding lights are turned on:

• Left turn signal.
• Right turn signal.
• 4-way emergency flashers.

Horn

• Check that air horn and/or electric horn work.

Heater/Defroster

• Test that the heater and defroster works.

Safety Belt

• Check that the safety belt is securely mounted, adjusts, and latches properly.

More information about the CDL pre-trip inspection cab check engine start can be found at 49CFR383.113