FMCSA Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Requirements 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Under FMCSA regulations, how often must a motor carrier inspect each commercial motor vehicle?
- Every 30 days
- Every 90 days
- At least once every 12 months (Correct answer)
- Every 6 months
Correct 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).
Question 2: What must a driver do if a vehicle defect is discovered during a pre-trip inspection?
- Continue driving if defect seems minor
- Report it on the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) (Correct answer)
- Fix it before submitting any paperwork
- Notify the DOT immediately
Correct 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.
Question 3: Which brake system component defect would place a CMV 'out of service' under FMCSA rules?
- Slightly worn brake pads
- Brake pushrod travel exceeding adjustment limits (Correct answer)
- A minor brake fluid leak inside the cab
- Brake lights flickering intermittently
Correct 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.
Question 4: Who is responsible for ensuring a CMV is in safe operating condition according to FMCSA?
- Only the driver
- Only the motor carrier
- Both the driver and the motor carrier (Correct answer)
- The vehicle manufacturer
Correct 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.
Question 5: How long must a motor carrier retain records of periodic vehicle inspections?
- 6 months
- 1 year
- 14 months (Correct answer)
- 3 years
Correct answer: 14 months
Periodic inspection records must be retained for 14 months from the inspection date under 49 CFR 396.21.
Question 6: What is the minimum tread depth required for front steering axle tires on a CMV under FMCSA regulations?
- 2/32 inch
- 4/32 inch (Correct answer)
- 6/32 inch
- 8/32 inch
Correct answer: 4/32 inch
FMCSA requires front steering axle tires to have a minimum tread depth of 4/32 inch (49 CFR 393.75).
FMCSA Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Requirements 1
Under FMCSA regulations, how often must a motor carrier inspect each commercial motor vehicle?