Tire Inspection
Post-Trip Tire Inspection
The post-trip inspection is when the evidence of the run is still on the tires. Heat damage, new sidewall cuts, and pressure changes are easier to catch immediately after a trip than the next morning.
Federal regulations (49 CFR Part 396) require drivers to prepare a Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) at the end of each day. Tires are part of that inspection. This page covers the tire-specific checks in practical detail.
Why the post-trip catches what the pre-trip misses
The pre-trip inspection is done cold. The post-trip inspection is done after the vehicle has been loaded, driven at speed, and worked its brakes. A tire that held pressure at the start of the run may have developed a slow leak or sidewall crack under those conditions. Heat-related problems — separation starting, sidewall bulging, or valve stem deterioration — are more visible in the minutes after stopping than hours later.
Post-trip tire check sequence
| Check item | What to look for | When to flag |
|---|---|---|
| Visual tire condition | Cuts, scrapes, embedded objects, sidewall damage | Any new damage not present at departure |
| Sidewall temperature feel (use back of hand) | Unusual heat at one tire vs others | One tire dramatically hotter than its axle mates — possible underinflation or brake issue |
| Visual pressure check | Obvious low or flat tire | Any tire visibly lower than departure — measure before next trip |
| Valve stems and caps | Missing caps, bent stems, hissing | Replace missing caps; investigate hissing valves |
| Tread condition | New cuts or damage, embedded nails or debris | Any debris embedded in tread — note position for removal before next trip |
| Drive behavior report | Any vibration, pulling, noise, or handling change during the run | Anything unusual felt during the drive — flag for pre-trip review |
What goes on the DVIR
- Note any tire defect observed, including its location by position (left-front steer, right-rear tandem outer, etc.).
- If no defects are found, record that the vehicle was inspected and found in satisfactory condition.
- Tire defects that affect safety should be noted even if you are uncertain of severity — let maintenance make the call.
- The DVIR must be reviewed by the next driver before operating the vehicle.
What does not need a post-trip measurement
Tread depth measurement at every post-trip is not typically required or practical. Pressure measurement at post-trip is also less useful because tires are hot and readings differ from cold. Use the post-trip for visual checks, heat checks, and documenting new damage — save pressure and tread measurement for the next pre-trip or scheduled maintenance.
Step-by-Step Checklist
- Walk around every tire — do not check from inside the cab.
- Use the back of the hand to check for unusual heat on any tire.
- Check all valves and caps.
- Report any new damage, unusual heat, or driving complaint on the DVIR.
- Flag any tire needing attention before the next pre-trip inspection.
FAQ
Is a post-trip tire inspection legally required?
Federal regulations under 49 CFR Part 396 require commercial motor vehicle drivers to prepare a Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) at the completion of each day's work, covering specified vehicle components including tires. The DVIR must be signed, retained, and reviewed by the next driver. Carriers must maintain these records. The specific inspection requirements for your operation may vary by vehicle type and applicable regulations — confirm with your carrier's compliance procedures.
What should I do if I find a new tire problem at post-trip?
Record the defect on the DVIR with the tire position and a brief description of what was found. If the defect is serious enough to affect safe operation (flat tire, visible cord, severe bulge), note it clearly so the vehicle is not dispatched again before the defect is corrected. If uncertain, note the observation and let maintenance assess — the DVIR is not the place to decide whether a defect is minor or major. Give maintenance accurate information so they can make that call.
Does checking tire temperature after a run tell me anything useful?
A rough temperature check using the back of the hand can identify a tire that is dramatically hotter than its axle mates — which may indicate a slow-leak tire that was running underinflated during the trip, a brake issue heating one wheel, or a dual with a significantly low inside tire. This is not a precise measurement and should not replace actual pressure measurement. Use it as a screening step: if one tire feels much hotter than the others, put it on a list for closer inspection before the next trip.
Source Notes
- Government 49 CFR Part 396 - Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance
- Government 49 CFR 393.75 - Tires
- Government TireWise Tire Safety
- Site note TruckTireGuide.com editorial notes