For 72-hours the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will be performing their annual road check. The 2019 CVSA Inspection Blitz will be taking place June 4-6 throughout North America, with steering and suspension systems being the primary focus. CVSA president, Jay Thompson says “steering and suspension are safety-critical systems for any commercial motor vehicle”.

Since the beginning of the CVSA International Roadcheck, it is recorded that an average of 17 trucks and buses are inspected, each minute in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Inspectors will be performing a 37-step procedure. During this inspection will include checking the following:

• Brake systems
• Cargo securement
• Coupling devices*
• Driveline/driveshaft
• Driver’s seat
• Exhaust systems*
• Frames*
• Fuel systems
• Lighting devices*
• Steering mechanisms*
• Suspensions*
• Tires*
• Van/ open-top trailer bodies
• Rims/hubs
• Windshield wipers

*Find tips on this topic that can save you from being in violation, below

Just last year the 2018 CVSA Roadcheck placed 21.6% of vehicles inspected out of service (OOS). You can avoid being in this number by following our Express CVSA Roadcheck Guide.

Now that you know what will be inspected here is how you can ace it with flying colors:

Express CVSA Roadcheck Guide

Steering And Suspension Systems

With this being the main focus of this years check it is important that you make sure our steering lash is within the proper lash distance. Also, check for any damages and loose parts in your suspension.

Fuel And Exhaust Systems

Be aware of leaks, improper mounting, and excess carbon around seams and clamps.

Coupling Devices

Check the strength of any chains, wires, and ropes you use

Lighting Devices

Look for discoloration, improper mounting, non-functioning parts, and block visibility in all devices.

Frames

Check for corrosion fatigue on all frames, missing, loose, or cracked cross-members.

Tires

Make sure all tires are properly inflated, free of bulges, cuts and excessive tread wear.


The CVSA International Roadcheck is the largest inspection blitz. Last year there were over 67,000 inspections performed. Most of the inspections are level I inspections. A level I inspection consists of an examination of the motor carrier’s and driver’s credentials, record of duty status, mechanical condition of the vehicle, any hazardous materials or dangerous goods present during the inspection.

It is important to have your vehicle up to par for the inspection blitz, but it is also important to make sure that you are also within code. Driver’s operating without proper credentials, in violation of hours of services (HOS), or in possession of alcohol or narcotics may be placed out of service.

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