DOT Inspection Checklist: Get Your Kenworth T880 Ready for the Road

Few things are more frustrating than getting sidelined at a DOT inspection station for an issue that could have been easily avoided. Whether it’s a worn-out brake drum, a faulty turn signal, or missing paperwork, failing an inspection can lead to delays, fines, or even being placed out of service. For Kenworth T880 drivers, routine pre-trip inspections and preventive maintenance are essential to staying compliant and road-ready. Understanding what inspectors look for and preparing ahead of time will help you pass your next DOT inspection with confidence.

What Is a DOT Inspection?

A DOT inspection is a federal safety check performed by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to ensure that commercial trucks meet federal and state safety standards. These inspections take place at weigh stations, roadside checks, and fleet audits. The most common type is the Level 1 North American Standard Inspection, which is a thorough check of both the truck and the driver’s qualifications.

Failing a DOT inspection can result in fines, increased CSA scores, and downtime. Worse, if inspectors find serious safety violations, your Kenworth T880 could be placed out of service, meaning you won’t be able to drive until repairs are made. To avoid costly violations, truckers should perform a detailed pre-trip inspection before every haul.

What Inspectors Focus on Most

• Driver documentation, including CDL, medical card, and HOS logs
• The braking system, including brake drums, S-cams, air lines, and slack adjusters
• Tires, wheels, and rims for tread depth, inflation, and damage
• Lighting system, including brake lights, headlights, and signals
• Suspension, steering, and fuel systems for leaks or loose components

Driver Credentials and Paperwork

Before checking your truck, inspectors will review your driver’s credentials. If any documents are missing or expired, you could face penalties before they even begin the vehicle inspection. Your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) must be valid and free of suspensions. Additionally, all drivers must carry a valid DOT medical examiner’s certificate to prove they are medically fit to operate a commercial vehicle.

Your electronic logging device (ELD) must be fully functional and compliant with FMCSA regulations to track Hours of Service (HOS). Any malfunctions or missing logs can result in violations. Inspectors will also check for current registration, insurance documents, and a valid annual DOT inspection report. Keeping these records organized and readily accessible can help speed up the inspection process.

Brakes and Air System

Brake-related violations are one of the most common reasons trucks fail DOT inspections. Inspectors will check for worn-out brake shoes, cracked or warped brake drums, and any signs of air leaks in the braking system. If you operate a truck with air brakes, the inspector will also test the low-air warning system and verify that the air compressor and slack adjusters are functioning correctly.

A Kenworth T880 has a powerful air brake system, but it requires regular maintenance to stay compliant. Before an inspection, listen for hissing sounds near the air lines and brake chambers, as these could indicate leaks. Conducting a brake pressure test before hitting the road can help identify potential failures before an inspector does.

Tires, Wheels, and Rims

DOT inspectors pay close attention to the condition of tires, wheels, and rims. A tire with low tread depth, improper inflation, or visible damage could get flagged as a safety hazard. Federal regulations require a minimum tread depth of 4/32 of an inch on steer tires and 2/32 of an inch on all other tires. Any bulges, cuts, or exposed cords will result in an automatic failure.

Wheel lug nuts should be tight and secure, and rims should be free of cracks or corrosion. If your truck’s hub oil seals are leaking, they must be repaired before hitting the road. Tire pressure should also be checked regularly, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reduce fuel efficiency, and are more prone to blowouts.

Lights and Electrical System

Lighting violations are among the easiest to avoid, yet they account for a large number of inspection failures. DOT inspectors will check that all exterior lights are functioning, including headlights, turn signals, brake lights, clearance lights, and reflectors. A burned-out bulb or damaged lens cover could result in a citation.

Wiring issues can also lead to problems. Inspect the electrical harnesses for frayed or loose wires that could cause flickering or intermittent failures. Test the lights before an inspection and carry spare bulbs to replace any that might fail while on the road.

Suspension and Steering System

A Kenworth T880 is built for heavy-duty hauling, but even the best trucks require suspension and steering maintenance. Inspectors will look for loose or worn-out steering linkages, broken leaf springs, damaged airbags, and worn-out shock absorbers. Any looseness in the steering system could be a red flag, as it affects the truck’s handling and stability.

To ensure compliance, check for leaking fluid around power steering components and verify that the kingpins, tie rods, and drag links are properly secured. If you notice excessive play in the steering wheel, it could indicate a problem with the steering gearbox or other components.

Fuel and Exhaust System

Fuel and exhaust leaks are serious safety concerns and will immediately result in a failed DOT inspection. Inspectors will check the fuel tanks, fuel lines, and exhaust pipes for leaks, rust, or loose connections. Diesel-powered trucks, including the Kenworth T880, must also have a properly functioning Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system if equipped.

A leaking exhaust system can increase emissions and pose a fire hazard, so it’s essential to repair cracks, holes, or missing clamps before heading to an inspection site. Keep an eye on fuel cap seals, as missing or damaged caps can also result in a violation.

Windshield, Mirrors, and Wipers

Visibility is critical for safe driving, and DOT inspectors will check for cracked windshields, broken mirrors, and faulty wipers. A small chip or crack in the driver’s line of sight could lead to a failed inspection, so it’s important to address any windshield damage immediately.

Mirrors should be secure and properly adjusted, and windshield wipers must be fully functional to ensure proper visibility during adverse weather conditions. Replacing old or brittle wiper blades before an inspection is a simple step that can prevent unnecessary violations.

Cargo Securement and Trailer Inspection

If you’re hauling a load, proper cargo securement is one of the most critical areas of a DOT inspection. Inspectors will check that all straps, chains, and binders are in good condition and properly tightened. Any loose cargo or improperly secured freight can result in serious fines and safety risks.

Trailer components, including fifth wheels, kingpins, and locking mechanisms, must also be in good working order. If the trailer’s mud flaps are missing or not secured, they must be replaced before passing an inspection. Ensuring that load distribution is balanced can also prevent issues with trailer stability and handling.

Stay DOT Compliant and Road-Ready

A Kenworth T880 is designed for performance and durability, but passing a DOT inspection requires ongoing maintenance and preparation. By following this inspection checklist, you can avoid unnecessary violations, prevent costly downtime, and ensure your truck is road-ready for North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Southeast Fleet Services has the expertise to keep your truck running smoothly. Schedule an inspection today and drive with confidence. For more information, read our article on truck preventive maintenance.