Peterbilt 579 Safety and Compliance Inspection Checklist

Comprehensive inspection procedures to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and roadside inspection readiness for Peterbilt 579 trucks.

Peterbilt 579 Safety and Compliance Overview

The Peterbilt 579 is a premium Class 8 truck designed with advanced safety features and systems that require proper inspection and maintenance to ensure regulatory compliance. Regular safety inspections are crucial for maintaining DOT compliance, passing roadside inspections, and ensuring operational safety. This checklist provides fleet managers, safety directors, and drivers with comprehensive inspection procedures specific to the Peterbilt 579 model, covering required documentation, vehicle safety systems, electronic logging devices, emissions systems, and other critical components. Following these procedures helps minimize CSA violations, reduce the risk of being placed out-of-service, and maintain a strong safety record.

DOT Documentation and Compliance

Verify these essential documents and records to ensure regulatory compliance.

Required Documentation

  • Verify current vehicle registration
  • Confirm valid insurance documentation (form MCS-90)
  • Check annual inspection documentation (within 12 months)
  • Verify IFTA credentials and stickers
  • Confirm UCR registration for current year
  • Check for valid HVUT (Form 2290) proof of payment
  • Verify proper operating authority documentation
  • Ensure lease agreements are present (if applicable)

Driver Qualification

  • Verify current CDL with proper endorsements
  • Check medical examiner's certificate (valid and unexpired)
  • Confirm driver has valid HAZMAT endorsement (if applicable)
  • Verify driver qualification file is complete and current
  • Confirm driver has required training certifications
  • Check skill performance evaluation certificate (if required)
  • Verify entry-level driver training documentation
  • Confirm driver is not subject to out-of-service orders

Electronic Logging Device

  • Verify ELD is registered with FMCSA
  • Confirm ELD is properly mounted and accessible
  • Check ELD connection to engine control module
  • Verify ELD display is functioning properly
  • Confirm driver has ELD user manual
  • Check ELD data transfer capability (email and web)
  • Verify 8 days of blank DVIR forms are available
  • Ensure ELD malfunctions can be properly reported

Hours of Service Compliance

  • Verify current and previous 7 days logs are available
  • Check for proper duty status changes
  • Verify all required information is entered correctly
  • Confirm appropriate use of personal conveyance
  • Check for violations of 11-hour, 14-hour, or 70-hour rules
  • Verify 30-minute breaks are properly documented
  • Confirm any unassigned driving time is addressed
  • Check that all supporting documents are retained

579 Safety Systems Inspection

Verify these critical safety systems specific to the Peterbilt 579 model.

Collision Mitigation System

  • Verify forward radar sensor is clean and unobstructed
  • Check camera system lens for clarity
  • Test collision warning alert functionality
  • Verify system self-calibration on startup
  • Check for active fault codes in system
  • Confirm automatic emergency braking is enabled
  • Verify proper following distance settings
  • Test driver alert notification system

Lane Departure System

  • Check windshield-mounted camera is clean and aligned
  • Verify system activates after reaching 37 mph
  • Test lane departure warning functionality
  • Confirm audible and visual alerts are working
  • Check lane keeping assist function (if equipped)
  • Verify system deactivates below 37 mph
  • Test driver override capability
  • Check for any active fault codes

Electronic Stability Control

  • Verify ESC indicator illuminates during startup
  • Check for active ESC fault codes
  • Confirm yaw rate sensor functionality
  • Test lateral acceleration sensor
  • Verify wheel speed sensor operation
  • Check steering angle sensor calibration
  • Confirm ESC integration with ABS system
  • Verify roll stability control function

Adaptive Cruise Control

  • Verify radar sensor is clean and properly aligned
  • Test all cruise control switches and functions
  • Check system's ability to maintain following distance
  • Verify system automatically adjusts to traffic speed
  • Test override function when braking
  • Confirm resume function works properly
  • Check integration with collision mitigation system
  • Verify distance settings can be properly adjusted

Brake System Safety

  • Perform complete air brake check (7-step method)
  • Verify ABS function and indicator light cycle
  • Check brake stroke measurement at all positions
  • Verify automatic slack adjusters are functioning
  • Confirm air system build-up time (85-100 PSI in 2 min)
  • Check air loss rate (less than 2 PSI/minute)
  • Test parking and emergency brake application
  • Verify brake balance between tractor and trailer

Visibility Systems

  • Check all mirrors for proper adjustment and integrity
  • Verify all exterior lighting functions
  • Test windshield wipers and washer system
  • Check defrosting and defogging systems
  • Verify backup camera operation (if equipped)
  • Test blind spot monitoring system (if equipped)
  • Check side radar sensors for damage
  • Verify turn signal self-cancellation

Cab Safety Features

  • Check all seat belts for proper function and wear
  • Verify driver and passenger airbag indicators
  • Test all exits for proper operation
  • Check cab suspension and mounting integrity
  • Verify sleeper access and emergency exits
  • Test all safety-related warning indicators
  • Check fire suppression system (if equipped)
  • Verify proper function of all dash warning lights

Steering & Suspension

  • Check steering wheel for excessive free play (≤10°)
  • Verify steering gear box mounting bolts
  • Inspect steering shaft and U-joints
  • Check power steering fluid level and condition
  • Inspect all steering linkage components
  • Verify air suspension system operation and height
  • Check for air leaks in suspension system
  • Inspect shock absorbers for leaks or damage

Emissions and Environmental Compliance

Verify these emissions systems to ensure environmental compliance.

DEF System Compliance

  • Verify adequate DEF fluid level (minimum 1/8 tank)
  • Check DEF quality indicator reading
  • Inspect DEF tank cap for proper sealing
  • Verify DEF fluid quality (32.5% concentration)
  • Check DEF lines for crystallization or leaks
  • Verify DEF dosing valve operation
  • Test DEF tank heater function (if in cold weather)
  • Confirm no active DEF-related fault codes

DPF System Inspection

  • Check DPF restriction indicator status
  • Verify DPF is not due for cleaning/replacement
  • Confirm no active regeneration fault codes
  • Inspect DPF external condition and mounting
  • Check exhaust system for leaks before DPF
  • Verify DPF differential pressure sensor
  • Test manual regeneration function if needed
  • Check DPF-related warning lights on dash

EGR System Compliance

  • Check EGR valve for proper operation
  • Inspect EGR cooler for leaks or damage
  • Verify EGR temperature sensors
  • Check for EGR-related fault codes
  • Inspect EGR piping for cracks or leaks
  • Verify EGR flow is within specifications
  • Check EGR cooler bypass valve (if equipped)
  • Inspect EGR system for excessive soot buildup

Emissions Certification

  • Verify emissions label is present and legible
  • Check for unauthorized modifications to emissions system
  • Verify emission control warranty information
  • Confirm no tampering with emissions components
  • Check smoke opacity compliance
  • Verify SCR catalyst efficiency
  • Check engine control module for emissions calibration
  • Confirm compliance with applicable state emissions requirements

Roadside Inspection Preparation

Critical inspection points to ensure successful roadside inspections.

Level 1 Inspection Readiness

  • Verify current DVIR is completed and signed
  • Check for visible fluid leaks under vehicle
  • Inspect all tires for proper inflation and tread depth
  • Verify all wheel fasteners are secure
  • Check all lights, reflectors, and markers
  • Inspect windshield for cracks in driver's view
  • Verify all emergency equipment is present
  • Check seat belt usage and operation

Critical Violation Prevention

  • Check brake adjustment on all axles
  • Verify no air leaks in brake system
  • Inspect brake linings/pads for adequate thickness
  • Check for frame cracks or damage
  • Verify fifth wheel is properly secured
  • Inspect suspension components for defects
  • Check steering components for excessive wear
  • Verify tire sidewalls have no cuts or bulges

HAZMAT Compliance (If Applicable)

  • Verify proper shipping papers are accessible
  • Check hazmat placards are correct and visible
  • Confirm emergency response information is available
  • Verify proper package markings and labels
  • Check for leaks or spills of hazardous materials
  • Verify separation of incompatible materials
  • Confirm HAZMAT endorsement on driver's CDL
  • Check proper blocking and bracing of HAZMAT cargo

CSA Score Protection

  • Verify no fluid leaks that could drip on roadway
  • Check all lights are functioning (over 95% required)
  • Inspect conspicuity tape for damage or visibility
  • Verify tire tread depth exceeds minimum requirements
  • Check load securement meets or exceeds requirements
  • Verify brake adjustment is well within limits
  • Check all required markings and identification
  • Verify hours of service compliance before inspection

Safety Equipment and Emergency Preparedness

Verify these safety items to ensure emergency preparedness and compliance.

Required Safety Equipment

  • Verify fire extinguisher is charged and accessible
  • Check for three DOT-approved warning triangles
  • Verify spare fuses of appropriate amperage
  • Confirm wheel chocks are present (if required)
  • Check high-visibility safety vest availability
  • Verify first aid kit is complete (if carried)
  • Check flashlight with working batteries
  • Inspect emergency contact information

Emergency Systems

  • Verify emergency brake function
  • Test horn operation (air and electric)
  • Check emergency exits and operation
  • Verify hazard warning light function
  • Test engine shutdown capability
  • Check emergency battery disconnect
  • Verify SOS post-crash alert system
  • Inspect emergency window breaker tool (if equipped)

Communication & Alerting

  • Verify in-cab emergency call system
  • Check satellite or cellular communication device
  • Test CB radio operation (if equipped)
  • Verify emergency contact list is current
  • Check fleet management communication system
  • Verify emergency procedure documents are available
  • Test panic button function (if equipped)
  • Check emergency notification protocol documents

Spill Response Equipment

  • Verify spill kit is complete and accessible
  • Check absorbent materials for oil/fuel spills
  • Verify containment equipment is available
  • Check disposal bags for contaminated materials
  • Verify spill response procedure documentation
  • Check for appropriate PPE for spill cleanup
  • Verify drain covers for storm drain protection
  • Check contact information for environmental agencies

579 Model-Specific Safety Technology

Verify these advanced safety technologies unique to the Peterbilt 579.

PACCAR Driver Performance Assistant

  • Verify system activation and function
  • Check driver performance scoring display
  • Test coasting and braking efficiency feedback
  • Verify idle time monitoring function
  • Check predictive cruise control integration
  • Verify driver attention monitoring
  • Test driver coaching notifications
  • Check performance data recording function

SmartLINQ Remote Diagnostics

  • Verify connectivity to cellular network
  • Check system's ability to transmit fault codes
  • Test remote diagnostic capabilities
  • Verify dealer connection for service alerts
  • Check critical fault notification system
  • Verify location tracking function
  • Test over-the-air parameter updates (if equipped)
  • Check service scheduling automation

Digital Vision System (If Equipped)

  • Check camera clarity and positioning
  • Verify display screen function and brightness
  • Test camera view switching capability
  • Verify night vision enhancement
  • Check wide-angle view function
  • Test glare reduction capability
  • Verify recording function (if equipped)
  • Check system integration with safety alerts

Fatigue Management System

  • Verify driver-facing camera operation (if equipped)
  • Test eyelid monitoring system function
  • Check head position tracking capability
  • Verify drowsiness alert system
  • Test distraction detection function
  • Verify audible and haptic alert operation
  • Check system sensitivity settings
  • Verify reporting and data collection function

Cargo and Load Securement

Verify these cargo securement components for compliance with FMCSA regulations.

General Cargo Securement

  • Verify adequate number of tie-downs for cargo weight
  • Check working load limit meets cargo requirements
  • Inspect tie-downs for damage or wear
  • Verify proper blocking and bracing
  • Check cargo distribution and weight balance
  • Verify cargo is fully contained or secured
  • Check securement devices are properly tensioned
  • Verify cargo height and width within legal limits

Securement Equipment

  • Inspect chains for stretching, bending or damage
  • Check straps for cuts, tears, or abrasions
  • Verify wire rope integrity and end connections
  • Check binders and tensioning devices
  • Inspect anchor points for damage or weakness
  • Verify dunnage material is in good condition
  • Check edge protection where needed
  • Inspect headache rack or front-end structure

Specialized Cargo Requirements

  • Verify commodity-specific securement requirements
  • Check metal coil securement (if applicable)
  • Verify paper roll securement (if applicable)
  • Check concrete pipe securement (if applicable)
  • Verify proper securement of vehicles as cargo
  • Check lumber or building materials securement
  • Verify containerized load securement
  • Check intermodal container securement

Cargo Documentation

  • Verify bill of lading is accurate and complete
  • Check cargo manifest matches actual load
  • Verify weight tickets for accuracy
  • Check for required hazmat documentation (if applicable)
  • Verify customs documentation (if crossing borders)
  • Check special permits for oversize/overweight loads
  • Verify load plan documentation (if required)
  • Check cargo insurance coverage documentation
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