CDL Pre-Trip Inspection

Question 1

When is a CDL driver required to perform a pre-trip inspection?

Accepted Answer

Before each trip

Answer

Once a week before long trips

Answer

Only after repairs have been made

Answer

Every 500 miles during a trip

Question 2

During a pre-trip inspection of the engine compartment, which items must be checked?

Accepted Answer

Oil level, coolant level, and condition of belts and hoses

Answer

Fuel level only

Answer

Only the battery terminals

Answer

Just the air filter housing

Question 3

What is the acceptable oil level when checking a commercial vehicle's dipstick during a pre-trip inspection?

Accepted Answer

Within the normal operating range marked on the dipstick

Answer

Just above empty is acceptable for short trips

Answer

Any level above halfway is safe

Answer

Oil is only checked at scheduled service intervals

Question 4

What should you inspect when checking the steering mechanism during a pre-trip inspection?

Accepted Answer

Excessive play, loose or missing nuts, and bent or damaged components

Answer

Only confirm the steering wheel is attached

Answer

Only that the wheel turns left and right

Answer

Steering is only inspected after a collision

Question 5

What is the correct method to check for fluid leaks during a pre-trip inspection?

Accepted Answer

Look for puddles under the vehicle and check hoses, tanks, and connections for wet spots

Answer

Only check if you can smell fuel from the cab

Answer

Inspect only the fuel tank cap area

Answer

Leaks can be noted and checked at the end of your route

Question 6

What must a CDL driver do if safety-affecting defects are found during a pre-trip inspection?

Accepted Answer

Have defects repaired before operating the vehicle

Answer

Note them in the trip log and continue driving

Answer

Report them only at the end of the trip

Answer

Defects only need to be reported to a supervisor monthly

Question 7

When checking the horn during a pre-trip inspection, what must be verified?

Accepted Answer

That it works and is loud enough to serve as an effective warning device

Answer

That it produces a pleasant sound

Answer

That it matches the vehicle manufacturer's specifications exactly

Answer

Only air horns need to be checked on commercial vehicles