Vehicle Maintenance
Enhancing Vehicle Maintenance with RoadLink Recruiters
DOT-FMCSA Vehicle Maintenance Compliance
.Is your company currently operating with a 'conditional' or 'unsatisfactory' safety rating? Have you recently faced a DOT audit failure? If your answer is 'Yes' to either of these questions, RoadLink Recruiters is here to assist.
Part 396 mandates that every motor carrier systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) under its control. All individuals directly involved in the inspection and upkeep of these commercial vehicles must adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by the FMCSA and DOT in 49 CFR 396. It is imperative that all vehicle components are always maintained in a safe and proper operating condition.
Vehicle Maintenance falls under the category of one of the seven Behavioral Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories (BASICs) established by the FMCSA for motor carriers. This category focuses on issues such as brakes, lights, other mechanical defects, and load securement. Having a Vehicle Maintenance Program that aligns with FMCSA requirements is of utmost importance. Whether you are a carrier with a single truck or a large fleet, these regulations apply to all carriers and have sometimes posed challenges when setting up a maintenance program.
RoadLink Recruiters is your comprehensive solution for FMCSA-DOT inspections, reports, repairs, maintenance, and more. Whether you require a review of your current maintenance files and schedules or need assistance in creating new files, RoadLink Recruiters is here to help. Our Transportation Consultants can provide training for everyone involved, from the owners to the drivers, ensuring compliance with Part 396 requirements. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) stipulates the maintenance of vehicle maintenance records and specific documents, along with prescribing the manner in which they must be maintained and the associated recordkeeping requirements.
Who needs an FMCSA Vehicle Maintenance Program?
These regulations apply to any owned or leased vehicle (including trailers) that has been in operation for at least 30 days and meets one or more of the following criteria:
- Has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 10,001 pounds or more.
- Is capable of transporting 8 or more passengers.
- Belongs to Hazardous Materials (HM) carriers that require placarding.
Vehicle Maintenance Files (VMFs)
The FMCSA mandates the maintenance of individual files for all commercial vehicles (CMVs). Failing to properly maintain these files can have consequences in the event of an audit or review. These files can be extensive, including maintenance receipts, annual reports, roadside inspections, Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs), and more.
How long do these files have to be kept?
All vehicle maintenance records must be retained for a minimum of 12 months, with an exception for Annual Inspection Reports, which must be retained for 14 months.
How can RoadLink Recruiters help?
RoadLink Recruiters offers an all-in-one solution for your vehicle maintenance program. Allow our transportation safety consultants to organize and implement a compliant Vehicle Maintenance Program for you today. Call us 24/7 for a free consultation.
Get in Touch with Our Experts
Ready to take the next step towards ensuring DOT safety and compliance for your business? Contact our team of experts today. Fill out the form below and let us know how we can assist you. Whether you have questions, need detailed information, or want to schedule a consultation, we're here to help. Don't compromise on safety and regulatory compliance – reach out to us now and let's make your transportation operations safer and more efficient