Tire Condition and Pressure Audit Checklist [FREE PDF]

Tire integrity is a critical safety requirement under DOT FMCSA 49 CFR Part 396, which mandates systematic inspection of all tire components before and during commercial vehicle operation. Underinflated or damaged tires are a leading cause of commercial vehicle accidents and can result in out-of-service violations under 49 CFR 396.9. This checklist provides a structured audit process to verify tire pressure, tread depth, sidewall condition, and mounting integrity in accordance with federal and s

Industry: Commercial Trucking
Frequency: Daily
Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
Role: Vehicle Inspector
Total Items: 35
Compliance: DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.17 - Periodic Inspection Requirements, DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 393.75 - Tires, DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.9 - Inspection of Motor Vehicles in Operation, SAE J2047 - Tire Pressure Management Systems, State DOT Commercial Vehicle Inspection Regulations

Steer Axle Tires

Inspect both front steer axle tires for pressure, tread depth, and physical condition.

Is the left steer tire inflated to the manufacturer-specified cold inflation pressure?
Is the right steer tire inflated to the manufacturer-specified cold inflation pressure?
Does each steer tire have at least 4/32-inch tread depth in all major grooves?
Are steer tires free from cuts, cracks, or bulges that expose the ply or belt material?
Record the measured tread depth for left steer tire (in 32nds of an inch)?
Record the measured tread depth for right steer tire (in 32nds of an inch)?

Drive Axle Tires

Inspect all drive axle tires for pressure, tread, and condition compliance.

Are all drive axle tires inflated to within the manufacturer's specified pressure range?
Do all drive axle tires have at least 2/32-inch tread depth in all major grooves?
Are dual drive tires matched in size and type to prevent uneven loading?
Are drive axle tires free from sidewall damage, exposed cords, or tread separation?
Is adequate clearance maintained between dual tires to prevent contact under full load?

Trailer Axle Tires

Evaluate all trailer axle tires for pressure, tread condition, and mounting integrity.

Are all trailer axle tires inflated to the manufacturer's specified pressure?
Do all trailer tires meet the minimum 2/32-inch tread depth requirement?
Are trailer tires free from visible flat spots, irregular wear patterns, or cupping?
Are spare tires (if present) in serviceable condition and properly secured?
Have any tires been flagged for replacement or repair before next trip?

Wheel and Mounting Hardware

Inspect wheel condition, lug nuts, valve stems, and mounting integrity across all axles.

Are all lug nuts or wheel bolts present and properly torqued with no visible looseness?
Are all wheel rims free from cracks, bends, or damage that could affect tire seating?
Are all valve stems intact, capped, and free from leakage?
Are multi-piece rim assemblies inspected for component matching and proper assembly?
Are wheel hub seals free from oil leaks that could contaminate tire or brake components?

Tire Pressure Measurement Records

Record actual measured PSI values for each tire position to support documentation requirements.

Has a calibrated tire pressure gauge been used for all measurements?
Are all tire pressures measured cold (before driving more than 1 mile)?
Have all measured tire pressures been recorded in the vehicle inspection report?
Is the vehicle equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and is it functional?
Enter any notes on tires requiring immediate attention or follow-up service?

Environmental and Load Conditions

Evaluate load weight, environmental factors, and conditions affecting tire performance and compliance.

Is the vehicle loaded within the tire's maximum load rating?
Have temperature extremes been accounted for when adjusting tire pressure today?
Are tires appropriate for the road and weather conditions of today's route?
Has a photo of any damaged or defective tires been captured and attached?
Is the overall tire inspection status acceptable for vehicle to operate?

Corrective Actions and Sign-Off

Document any corrective actions taken and obtain required inspector certification.

Were any tires replaced or repaired during this inspection?
Has the vehicle inspection report been completed and signed by the inspector?
Have any out-of-service conditions been reported to fleet management immediately?
Provide any additional observations or recommendations for the fleet maintenance team?

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Why Use This Tire Condition and Pressure Audit Checklist [FREE PDF]?

This tire condition and pressure audit checklist [free pdf] helps commercial trucking teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for vehicle inspector professionals, this checklist covers 35 critical inspection points across 7 sections. Recommended frequency: daily.

Ensures compliance with DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.17 - Periodic Inspection Requirements, DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 393.75 - Tires, DOT FMCSA 49 CFR 396.9 - Inspection of Motor Vehicles in Operation, SAE J2047 - Tire Pressure Management Systems, State DOT Commercial Vehicle Inspection Regulations. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Tire Condition and Pressure Audit Checklist [FREE PDF] cover?

This checklist covers 35 inspection items across 7 sections: Steer Axle Tires, Drive Axle Tires, Trailer Axle Tires, Wheel and Mounting Hardware, Tire Pressure Measurement Records, Environmental and Load Conditions, Corrective Actions and Sign-Off. It is designed for commercial trucking operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed daily. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

Who should use this Tire Condition and Pressure Audit Checklist [FREE PDF]?

This checklist is designed for Vehicle Inspector professionals in the commercial trucking industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.