USGS Home Page

U.S. Geological Survey Manual

Appendix 16-2

Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection Checklist

At a minimum, safety inspections shall consist of the items set forth below. Deficiencies which impair safety of operations are corrected before returning the vehicle to an operational status.

Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection Checklist
Item Procedure
Brakes Test to determine if brakes are functioning properly.
Check brake pedal as required. Remove right front brake drum, inspect for wear orcracking, inspect lining for excessive wear, check wheel cylinder for leaks and deterioration. If excessive wear and/or malfunction is noted, the remaining drums will be removed and completed inspected.
Check all hydraulic brake lines for leaks and condition. Fill system with fluid. On air brake systems, inspect air brake diaphragms and all air lines and air tanks for leaks and deterioration; check air brake instrument controls, air valves, and trailer hoses. For disc brakes, inspect discs and pads in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.
Lights Check all lights, signals, and reflectors. Check condition of trailer jumper cable. Check headlights for proper alignment.
Instruments, Controls Check all instruments, gauges, and warning devices mirrors, switches, controls, horns, and warning devices for proper functioning.
Exhaust System Check muffler, exhaust, and tailpipes, and all connections for leaks.
Steering System Check all steering devices and linkage for wear, alignment, and damage.
Safety Belts Check all safety belts for wear and proper mounting.
Fifth Wheel, Trailer Check fifth wheel operation and king pin, and towing safety lock. Check trailer king pin attachment for wear damage. Check tow bars, tongue socket, attachments, and safety chain.
Tires Check all tires for damage and excess wear. Check wheel lug nuts for tightness.
Windshield Wipers Check for proper operation, wear, and washers damage, and deterioration, as appropriate.
Exhaust Emission Check exhaust emissions for controls compliance with local restrictions.
Exhaust Controls Check for the presence of, as well as damage or tampering. check the catalytic converter, fuel filter inlet restrictor, exhaust gas recirculation valve, air pump, air pump drive belt, and other pollution control devices which are readily visible. Check also for plugged or disconnected vacuum lines.
Window Glass Check for cracks.
License Plates Ensure they are firmly attached and that rear plate is illuminated.
Spare Tire Check for presence of tire and tool to change.


SM 445-2-H Table of Contents || Handbooks || Survey Manual Home Page
U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, VA, USA
URL: http://www.usgs.gov/usgs-manual/handbook/hb/445-2-h/app18.html
Contact: APS, Office of Policy and Analysis
Content Information Contact: wrmiller@usgs.gov
Last modification: 28-Aug-2002@17:03 (kk)