Practice Test GeeksFMCSA - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Practice Test
← All FMCSA Flashcard Decks

Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Requirements Flashcards

6 cards from real FMCSA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Requirements flashcards as text

  1. Under FMCSA regulations, how often must a motor carrier inspect each commercial motor vehicle?

    Answer: At least once every 12 months

    FMCSA requires that every CMV be systematically inspected at least once every 12 months (49 CFR 396.17).

  2. What must a driver do if a vehicle defect is discovered during a pre-trip inspection?

    Answer: Report it on the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR)

    Drivers must document any defects on the DVIR so the carrier can address repairs before the vehicle returns to service.

  3. Which brake system component defect would place a CMV 'out of service' under FMCSA rules?

    Answer: Brake pushrod travel exceeding adjustment limits

    Brakes with pushrod travel beyond the adjustment limit are considered out-of-adjustment and are a Federal Out-of-Service criterion.

  4. Who is responsible for ensuring a CMV is in safe operating condition according to FMCSA?

    Answer: Both the driver and the motor carrier

    49 CFR 396.7 holds both the driver and the motor carrier jointly responsible for maintaining a CMV in safe operating condition.

  5. How long must a motor carrier retain records of periodic vehicle inspections?

    Answer: 14 months

    Periodic inspection records must be retained for 14 months from the inspection date under 49 CFR 396.21.

  6. What is the minimum tread depth required for front steering axle tires on a CMV under FMCSA regulations?

    Answer: 4/32 inch

    FMCSA requires front steering axle tires to have a minimum tread depth of 4/32 inch (49 CFR 393.75).