DOT Inspection Service Cost Estimates
Air Brake Inspection and Adjustment
Typical service time: 1-1.5 hours
Estimated cost: $125-$187.50
Note: Additional costs may apply if brake components need replacement
Lighting System Check and Repair
Typical service time: 0.5-1 hour
Estimated cost: $62.50-$125
Note: Parts (bulbs, wiring) are additional if needed
Tire Inspection and Pressure Check
Typical service time: 0.5-1 hour
Estimated cost: $62.50-$125
Note: Does not include tire replacement or repair costs
Steering Component Inspection
Typical service time: 1-2 hours
Estimated cost: $125-$250
Note: Additional costs for necessary repairs or replacements
Suspension System Check
Typical service time: 1-1.5 hours
Estimated cost: $125-$187.50
Note: Parts replacement costs are additional if required
Full DOT Inspection Package
Typical service time: 3-4 hours
Estimated cost: $375-$500
Note: Includes all above inspections; repairs and parts are additional
*All prices are based on our standard labor rate of $125/hour. Actual costs may vary depending on vehicle condition and necessary repairs. Additional parts and materials are not included in these estimates.
DOT Inspection Repair Procedures
Brake System Inspection & Repair
Common Steps:
- Measure brake pad thickness and rotor condition
- Inspect brake lines and hoses for leaks or damage
- Test brake fluid condition and level
- Check emergency brake functionality
Typical Repairs:
- Brake pad replacement
- Rotor resurfacing or replacement
- Brake fluid flush and replacement
- Brake line replacement if corroded
Tire Inspection & Repair
Common Steps:
- Measure tread depth at multiple points
- Check tire pressure
- Inspect for damage, bulges, or irregular wear
- Examine sidewall condition
Typical Repairs:
- Tire rotation
- Tire replacement if worn below 2/32"
- Wheel balancing
- Alignment adjustment if needed
Steering Components Inspection & Repair
Common Steps:
- Check power steering fluid level and condition
- Inspect tie rods and ball joints
- Test steering gear operation
- Check for excessive play in steering
Typical Repairs:
- Power steering fluid flush
- Tie rod end replacement
- Ball joint replacement
- Steering rack repair or replacement
Suspension System Inspection & Repair
Common Steps:
- Inspect shock absorbers and struts
- Check spring condition
- Test suspension bushings
- Examine control arms
Typical Repairs:
- Shock/strut replacement
- Control arm bushing replacement
- Spring replacement if cracked or sagged
- Sway bar link replacement
Lighting System Inspection & Repair
Common Steps:
- Test all exterior lights
- Check turn signals and hazards
- Inspect brake lights
- Verify headlight aim
Typical Repairs:
- Bulb replacement
- Wiring repair
- Socket replacement
- Headlight adjustment
Windshield & Wiper Inspection & Repair
Common Steps:
- Check windshield for cracks or chips
- Test wiper operation
- Inspect wiper blades
- Check washer fluid system
Typical Repairs:
- Windshield chip repair
- Windshield replacement
- Wiper blade replacement
- Washer pump replacement
Exhaust System Inspection & Repair
Common Steps:
- Check for exhaust leaks
- Inspect catalytic converter
- Test muffler condition
- Check exhaust hangers
Typical Repairs:
- Exhaust pipe replacement
- Catalytic converter replacement
- Muffler replacement
- Exhaust hanger replacement
Note: All repairs are performed according to manufacturer specifications and DOT requirements. Additional repairs may be necessary based on vehicle condition and specific state requirements.
Understanding DOT Inspections
Level I Inspection - North American Standard Inspection
What it is:The most comprehensive and thorough inspection level.
What it includes:This inspection involves a detailed examination of both the vehicle and the driver's documentation. The inspector will check:
- Driver's license and credentials
- Hours of Service logs
- Medical certificate
- Seat belt usage
- Alcohol and drug usage
- Complete vehicle inspection including brakes, lights, tires, frame, fuel system, and more
Level II Inspection - Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection
What it is:A walk-around inspection that includes items that can be checked without physically getting under the vehicle.
What it includes:Similar to Level I but without the physical examination of components under the vehicle. The inspector will verify:
- Driver documentation
- Visible vehicle components
- External brake components
- Lights and signals
- Tires and wheels
Level III Inspection - Driver-Only Inspection
What it is:A review of driver credentials and documentation only.
What it includes:This inspection focuses solely on the driver's paperwork and credentials:
- Commercial driver's license
- Medical certificate and waiver
- Record of duty status
- Vehicle inspection reports
- Hazmat requirements (if applicable)
Level IV Inspection - Special Inspection
What it is:A one-time examination of a particular item.
What it includes:This inspection is typically conducted to verify or refute a suspected trend, such as:
- Specific vehicle components
- Driver credentials
- Cargo securement
Level V Inspection - Vehicle-Only Inspection
What it is:A vehicle inspection without a driver present.
What it includes:This inspection includes all vehicle components that would be checked in a Level I inspection:
- Brake systems
- Cargo securement
- Coupling devices
- Exhaust system
- Frame and body
Level VI Inspection - Enhanced NAS Inspection for Radioactive Shipments
What it is:A specialized inspection for vehicles carrying highway route controlled quantities of radioactive materials.
What it includes:This is the most rigorous inspection, including:
- Enhanced out-of-service criteria
- Radiological requirements
- All Level I inspection points
- Additional hazardous materials requirements
Level VII Inspection - Jurisdictional Mandated Inspection
What it is:An inspection program specific to a particular state or jurisdiction.
What it includes:These inspections vary by location but may include:
- State-specific requirements
- Local safety concerns
- Special permit verifications
Note: Regular DOT inspections help ensure safety compliance and can prevent costly violations and delays. It's recommended to maintain proper documentation and keep vehicles well-maintained to pass these inspections successfully.
Common DOT Inspection Failure Symptoms: Warning Signs and Red Flags
DOT Inspection Points and Maintenance Guide
1. Brake System
Signs of Failure:
- Squealing or grinding noises
- Soft or spongy brake pedal
- Vehicle pulling to one side when braking
- Vibration in brake pedal
Service Schedule: Brake pads should be inspected every 12,000 miles or annually. Brake fluid should be changed every 2 years.
2. Steering Components
Signs of Failure:
- Loose or wandering steering
- Clicking noise when turning
- Steering wheel vibration
- Uneven tire wear
Service Schedule: Power steering fluid check every 6 months; full system inspection annually.
3. Lighting System
Signs of Failure:
- Dim or flickering lights
- Burnt-out bulbs
- Yellowed or cloudy lens covers
Service Schedule: Monthly visual inspection; replace bulbs as needed.
4. Tires and Wheels
Signs of Failure:
- Uneven tire wear
- Visible tread wear indicators
- Bulges or cracks in sidewalls
- Vibration while driving
Service Schedule: Tire rotation every 5,000-8,000 miles; alignment check annually.
5. Exhaust System
Signs of Failure:
- Loud or unusual noises
- Excessive smoke
- Rattling sounds
- Strong exhaust smell in cabin
Service Schedule: Visual inspection every 6 months; full system check annually.
6. Fuel System
Signs of Failure:
- Difficulty starting
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Engine sputtering
- Fuel smell
Service Schedule: Fuel filter replacement every 20,000-30,000 miles; system inspection annually.
7. Suspension System
Signs of Failure:
- Bouncy ride
- Nose-diving when braking
- Uneven tire wear
- Vehicle leaning to one side
Service Schedule: Shock/strut inspection every 12,000 miles; full system check annually.
8. Windshield and Wipers
Signs of Failure:
- Streaking or smearing
- Cracked or chipped windshield
- Squeaking wipers
- Poor visibility during operation
Service Schedule: Replace wiper blades every 6-12 months; inspect windshield regularly for damage.
9. Horn
Signs of Failure:
- Weak or intermittent sound
- No sound
- Unusual tone
Service Schedule: Test monthly; repair or replace as needed.
10. Seat Belts
Signs of Failure:
- Frayed or damaged webbing
- Slow or sticky retraction
- Loose mounting points
- Damaged buckles
Service Schedule: Monthly visual inspection; replace if any damage is found.
Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules and follow manufacturer recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
