Heavy vehicle pre-trip inspection guide
Use this learning sequence to understand the purpose of common checks. Follow the current assessment sheet, the vehicle manual and your instructor’s exact safe method.
Create a safe inspection area
- Approach from a position where you can see traffic, people and obstacles.
- Confirm the vehicle is parked securely on suitable ground.
- Wear required PPE and keep clear of moving vehicles.
- Do not crawl under, reach into moving parts or touch hot components.
- Know who is controlling the keys and whether anyone could move the vehicle.
Use a consistent direction so nothing is missed
Leaks and vehicle stance
Look for fresh fluid or air leaks, damage, leaning, insecure panels and anything unusual before starting.
Tyres and wheels
Condition, inflation appearance, tread, cuts, bulges, wheel security, visible nuts and signs of movement or damage.
Lights and visibility
Clean, secure and working lights, reflectors, lenses, mirrors, glass, plates and markings.
Body, doors and load
Doors, steps, guards, mudflaps, body equipment and any load or restraint must be secure and suitable.
Suspension and brakes
Observe accessible components for obvious damage, leaks, displaced parts or unsafe wear. Do not touch hot brakes.
Trailer and coupling
For HC/MC, check the coupling is locked and secured, landing legs are raised, lines are connected and no clearance risk is visible.
Check only when safe and according to the vehicle procedure
- Engine oil, coolant, windscreen washer and other required fluid levels.
- Hoses, belts, wiring, terminals and visible mounts for condition and security.
- No loose tools, rags or foreign objects.
- Bonnet, access panels and catches secured before movement.
Never open a hot cooling system or improvise around unfamiliar components. Ask the instructor to demonstrate the vehicle-specific method.
Confirm controls, warnings and braking systems
Driver setup
Seat, seat belt, mirrors, steering, pedals, controls, windows, horn, wipers, demister and emergency equipment.
Warning systems
Observe the instrument self-check, warning lights, gauges and audible warnings. Investigate warnings before moving.
Air system
Build and monitor pressure as instructed. Demonstrate the current approved leak and warning checks for that vehicle.
Brake checks
Complete the provider’s safe park-brake, service-brake and trailer-brake checks in a controlled area before entering traffic.
A check is incomplete if a serious fault is ignored
For each item, be ready to state whether you would correct it, report it, isolate the vehicle or stop the journey. Do not present yourself as authorised to repair systems you are not qualified to repair.
Check current Transport WA learner-driver resources
This is a general learning guide, not an exhaustive statutory or assessment checklist. Vehicle systems and provider assessment wording differ.