CVSA Level V Inspection: The Complete 25-Step Vehicle-Only Guide
The CVSA Level V inspection is a comprehensive vehicle-only examination performed without a driver present. It covers 25 steps including the undercarriage, and is one of only two levels that can result in a CVSA decal. Here's exactly what inspectors check and how to prepare.
What Is a CVSA Level V Inspection?
A Level V inspection is a vehicle-only inspection defined by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). It is essentially a full Level I vehicle examination — including going under the vehicle — but performed without a driver present. No driver credentials, hours of service, or documentation are checked. Along with Level I, it is one of only two inspection levels that can result in a CVSA decal being issued.
Level V at a Glance
25
Total Steps
30-60
Minutes Average
Vehicle Only
CVSA Decal Eligible
How Level V Differs from Other Levels
Key Difference
Level V covers the same vehicle components as Level I — including the undercarriage — but without any driver inspection. No CDL, medical certificate, hours of service, or documentation checks. This is typically performed at a carrier's facility, terminal, or maintenance yard where the vehicle is parked without a driver at the controls.
CVSA Decal Eligible
Level V is one of only two inspection levels (along with Level I) that can result in a CVSA decal being issued. If the vehicle passes with no critical violations, the inspector will affix a decal valid for up to three consecutive months. This generally exempts the vehicle from re-inspection during that period.
Vehicle Inspection Diagram
The Level V inspection follows the same path around and under the vehicle as Level I, but without the driver credential steps. The diagram below shows the inspection flow.
Complete 25-Step Inspection Procedure
Jump to a Phase:
Phase 1: Cab & Engine Compartment Step 1
Step 1: Inspect Cab and Engine Compartment
- Inspect the driver's seat for secureness
- Check windshield wipers and washers for proper operation
- Check all required mirrors
- Check the function of the horn
- Check engine compartment for fluid leaks
- Inspect the exhaust system for leaks
Phase 2: Undercarriage Inspection Steps 2-5
Under-Vehicle Inspection
This is the phase that distinguishes Level V from Level II vehicle checks. The inspector physically goes under the vehicle to inspect steering, suspension, brake components, and frame that cannot be seen from the outside.
Step 2: Inspect Steering Axle(s)
- Enter the undercarriage at the front of the power unit
- Check both sides of the steering system
- Inspect front suspension components
- Inspect front brake components
- Check the front axle and frame components
- Mark pushrods on both sides (if applicable)
Step 3: Inspect Drive Axle(s)
- Check driveline/driveshaft
- Check frame components
- Check the suspension and brake components on both sides
- Identify the size and type of brake chambers
- Mark pushrods on both sides (if applicable)
Step 4: Inspect Trailer Axle(s)
Same procedure as Step 3 — check suspension, brake components, and frame on all trailer axles.
Step 5: Inspect Fifth Wheel and Coupling
- Check the lower, upper, and slider components of the fifth wheel assembly
- Check kingpin and locking mechanism
- Check air and electrical connections
Phase 3: Exterior Walk-Around Steps 6-18
Step 6: Inspect Front of Tractor
- Check headlamps, turn signals, and all other required lamps
- Check windshield wipers and washers
- Check the function of the horn
Step 7: Left Front Side
- Check front wheel, rim, hub, and tire
Step 8: Left Saddle Tank
- Check fuel tank area
- Check exhaust system
Step 9: Trailer Front
- Check air and electrical lines
- Check driveline/driveshaft
Step 10: Inspect Left Rear Tractor Area
Caution: Never place yourself between tires of tandem axles.
- Check wheels, rims, hubs, and tires
- Check the fifth wheel assembly (visible components)
- Check all required lamps
Step 11: Left Side of Trailer
- Check frame and body
- Check condition of hoses
- Check van and open-top trailer bodies
- Check cargo securement
Step 12: Left Rear Trailer Wheels
- Check wheels, rims, hubs, and tires
- Check sliding tandem
Step 13: Inspect Rear of Trailer
- Check tail, stop, turn signals, all other required lights
- Check external ABS malfunction lamp
- Check cargo securement
- Inspect the rear impact guard (if applicable)
Step 14: Inspect Double, Triple, and Full Trailers
- Check safety devices on full trailers/converter dollies
- Check safety devices (chains/wire rope) for improper repairs or missing components
- Inspect pintle hook, eye, and drawbar
Steps 15-18: Right-Side Mirror Inspection
Steps 15-18 mirror the left-side inspections. Perform the same checks on the right side of the vehicle:
Phase 4: Brake & Functional Checks Steps 19-24
Step 19: Check Brake Adjustment
- Ensure air pressure is 90-100 psi (620-690 kPa)
- Fully apply brakes and hold
- Measure and record the pushrod travel
- Ensure brake lining to drum contact
- Listen for air leaks
Step 20: Inspect Tractor Protection System
- Test both the tractor protection system and emergency brakes
- Ensure emergency brakes are released, then disconnect both brake lines
- Ensure the air stops leaking from the supply line
- Give a full brake application and listen for air leaks
- Reconnect the lines
Step 21: Inspect Brake System Warning Devices
- Inspect the dash panel for ABS malfunction lamp function (if applicable)
- Ensure the low air pressure warning device activates properly
- Inspect the brake pedal
Step 22: Test Air Loss Rate
- With engine running, spring brakes released, air pressure 80-90 psi
- Apply service brakes
- Air pressure should maintain or build
Step 23: Check Steering Wheel Lash
- With engine running, measure steering wheel lash
- Wheels must be straight during measurement
Step 24: Check Fifth Wheel Movement
- Caution: This method can result in serious damage if conducted improperly
- Remove chock blocks and apply spring brakes on the trailer
- Check for excessive movement
- Ensure spring brakes are operational on the trailer
Phase 5: Completion Step 25
Step 25: Complete the Inspection
- Complete documentation
- Follow correct and current out-of-service procedures (if applicable)
- Issue CVSA decal(s) (if applicable)
- Notify the carrier of results
What a Level V Does NOT Include
Level V inspects the vehicle only. The following driver-related items are not part of a Level V inspection:
No Driver Credential Checks
- No CDL or driver's license examination
- No Medical Examiner's Certificate check
- No hours of service review
- No driver interview or observation
No Documentation Review
- No shipping papers or bills of lading review
- No record of duty status check
- No daily vehicle inspection report review
- No hazmat documentation verification (driver-related)
Common Level V Violations
Since Level V is a thorough vehicle inspection including the undercarriage, common violations mirror those of Level I:
Brake System Violations
- Brake out of adjustment
- Inoperative or missing brake components
- Air leaks in brake system
- Worn or contaminated brake linings
- Low air pressure warning device malfunction
Other Common Violations
- Tire defects (worn tread, under-inflation, cuts)
- Inoperative lights
- Fluid leaks (fuel, oil, coolant)
- Frame cracks or damage
- Steering component wear or damage
- Suspension defects
How to Prepare for a Level V Inspection
Regular Maintenance
- Schedule regular brake adjustments and inspections
- Check and maintain tire condition and inflation
- Inspect all lights regularly and replace burned-out bulbs
- Monitor fluid levels and fix leaks immediately
- Inspect coupling devices and fifth wheel components
Pre-Inspection Readiness
- Perform thorough pre-trip inspections daily
- Check undercarriage components periodically
- Ensure ABS malfunction lamps function properly
- Verify steering wheel lash is within spec
- Confirm air brake system holds pressure
- Keep vehicle clean to allow visual inspections
All CVSA Inspection Levels
The CVSA defines eight inspection levels. Level V is a vehicle-only inspection eligible for a CVSA decal:
Level I: Full Inspection
The most comprehensive inspection — includes going under the vehicle. 37 steps.
Level II: Walk-Around Inspection
Driver and vehicle exterior inspection without going under the vehicle. 31 steps.
Level III: Driver/Credential Inspection
Driver-only inspection — no vehicle mechanical checks. 13 steps.
Level IV: Special Inspection
One-time examination of a particular item for studies or trends.
Level VI: Radioactive Materials
Enhanced inspection for transuranic waste and radioactive material.
Level VII: Jurisdictional Inspection
Jurisdiction-specific programs for school buses, limos, taxis, etc.
Level VIII: Electronic Inspection
Conducted electronically while the vehicle is in motion.
Keep Your Fleet Inspection-Ready
Wayne Truck & Trailer helps Ohio fleets stay CVSA-compliant with professional inspections, brake adjustments, and preventive maintenance. Earn your CVSA decal with confidence — schedule your vehicle inspection today.