The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
recently highlighted the Top 5 Vehicle Inspection Violations of 2025, offering important insight for fleets and professional drivers focused on safety and compliance. According to FMCSA data, the most common violations include:
- Missing periodic inspection paperwork
- Brakes out of adjustment
- Required lights not working
- Tires leaking or underinflated
- Identification lights not working
These violations are largely preventable and often stem from overlooked pre-trip inspections or inconsistent maintenance routines. Addressing them proactively can significantly reduce out-of-service orders, CSA score impacts, and costly downtime.
Quick Tips to Prevent Common Inspection Violations
- Verify documentation daily. Ensure annual inspection reports and required paperwork are current and stored properly in the vehicle.
- Perform thorough brake checks. Regular brake inspections and scheduled maintenance prevent adjustment issues from escalating.
- Inspect all lighting systems. Check headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and identification lights before every trip.
- Monitor tire pressure and tread depth. Properly inflated tires improve safety, fuel efficiency, and compliance.
- Standardize pre-trip inspections. A consistent checklist helps drivers catch minor issues before they become violations.
Compliance is not just about avoiding fines. It is about protecting drivers, cargo, and everyone sharing the road. When vehicles meet FMCSA safety standards, drivers can focus on reaching their destination safely and efficiently without the stress of unexpected roadside inspections or delays.
Administrative compliance also plays a critical role in fleet operations. Tools like the Energie Fuel Card help streamline fuel transaction tracking and simplify reporting requirements. With real-time transaction data and detailed reporting, fleet managers gain better visibility into fuel purchases and driver activity. Additionally, the Energie Fuel Card supports easier IFTA-compliant reporting, reducing paperwork burdens and helping fleets maintain accurate fuel tax records across state lines.
Strong vehicle maintenance practices combined with accurate fuel and compliance reporting create a safer, more efficient fleet operation. By staying aware of the most common vehicle inspection violations and implementing preventative strategies, fleets can protect their drivers, control costs, and maintain regulatory compliance in 2026 and beyond.