Light Duty Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection

Pre-trip inspection template for light-duty vehicles covering fluids, tires, lights, signals, belts, horn, and walk-around checks.

Inspection Instructions

• Vehicle is parked safely and secured for inspection
  Perform the inspection before the vehicle is driven. Park on level ground when possible, set the parking brake, and ensure the area is safe to walk around.
• Inspector confirms vehicle type and pre-trip scope
  Confirm this is a light-duty vehicle pre-trip inspection for a sedan, SUV, pickup, or van.

Under-Hood Fluids and Visible Leaks

• Engine oil level within acceptable range
  Check dipstick or electronic indicator. Oil level must be within the manufacturer’s acceptable range and not show contamination or a low-oil warning.
• Coolant level within acceptable range and no visible leaks
  Coolant reservoir level is within range when checked per manufacturer guidance. No visible leaks, puddles, or residue under the vehicle.
• Brake fluid level within acceptable range
  Brake fluid reservoir is at or above the minimum mark and no warning indicators are illuminated.
• Windshield washer fluid available
  Reservoir has sufficient washer fluid for safe operation and windshield cleaning.
• No visible fluid leaks under vehicle or in engine compartment
  Inspect ground beneath the vehicle and visible engine bay areas for oil, coolant, fuel, brake fluid, or other leaks.

Tires and Wheels

• All tires inflated and free of visible damage
  Check for underinflation, cuts, bulges, embedded objects, exposed cords, or sidewall damage on all tires.
• Tread depth appears adequate and wear is even
  Tires show no obvious bald spots, severe uneven wear, or tread separation.
• Lug nuts, wheel covers, and visible wheel components secure
  No missing, loose, or damaged lug nuts, wheel covers, or visible wheel components.
• Spare tire and jack present if required by fleet policy
  Verify spare tire, jack, and required tools are present if the vehicle is equipped or policy requires them.

Lights, Signals, Horn, and Belts

• Headlights, parking lights, and taillights operate correctly
  Verify all required exterior lights illuminate properly and lenses are intact and clean enough for safe visibility.
• Brake lights and turn signals operate correctly
  Check brake lights, left and right turn signals, and hazard flashers for proper operation.
• Horn operates when pressed
  Horn sounds clearly when activated from the driver position.
• Seat belts present, undamaged, and latch properly
  Driver and visible passenger seat belts are present, retract properly, and latch/unlatch without damage or fraying.

Cabin and Driver Controls

• Windshield and mirrors are clean and free of major damage
  Windshield is free of cracks or chips that impair visibility; mirrors are intact, adjusted, and clean.
• Dashboard warning lights do not indicate a safety-critical fault
  No active warning indicators are present for brakes, airbag, engine, battery, tire pressure, or other safety-critical systems that would make the vehicle unsafe to operate.
• Steering and brake feel normal during start-up check
  With the vehicle stationary, steering wheel and brake pedal feel normal and no unusual resistance, vibration, or warning signs are present.

Exterior Walk-Around

• Body panels, bumpers, and doors show no unsafe damage
  Inspect for damage that could affect safe operation, including loose panels, hanging parts, sharp edges, or doors that do not close securely.
• No obstructions, leaks, or hazards around vehicle
  Walk around the vehicle and confirm the area is clear of obstacles, fluid spills, debris, and other hazards before departure.
• License plate, registration, and required markings visible
  If required by company policy or local law, plates and required vehicle markings are visible and unobstructed.