Get the Right Truck Inspection for Your Maryland Heavy-Duty Rig
Almost all vehicles in Maryland require an annual truck inspection. These will not only prevent you from incurring fines if you’re pulled over by the Department of Transportation — they also help keep you (and others) safe on the road. They also help with catching potential issues with your truck before they really become a headache! Below, we’ve outlined everything you need to know about getting the right truck inspection for your heavy-duty truck in Maryland.
Know What Class Your Vehicle Falls In To
Different vehicles fall into different classes, and some shops can only inspect certain ones. Below is a list of what type of vehicle falls into each class, according to the Motor Vehicle Association (MVA):
- Class A – Passenger vehicles, autocycles, limousines, multipurpose passenger vehicles, recreational motor homes and trucks 10,000 pounds and under Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), and trailers not equipped with air brakes.
- Class B – Any trailer, including those equipped with air brakes.
- Class C – Trucks, truck tractors, buses, recreational motor homes, converted buses, and limousines over 10,000 pounds GVWR.
- Class M – Motorcycles, 3-wheeled motorcycles, and trailers that are not equipped with air brakes.
- Class T – Any trailer not equipped with air brakes.
- Class R – Recreational motor homes and converted buses.
M&L is proud to offer inspection services for all classes of vehicles except Class M.
View a Truck Inspection Checklist
Knowing what the inspection will entail can help you pass your truck inspection without issue. The Maryland DOT requires inspection of battery, braking systems, exhaust systems, the frame, lighting, steering mechanisms, suspension, tires, wheels and rims, and even windshield wipers. A complete DOT truck inspection checklist should be reviewed beforehand to understand what to expect.
Determine If Your Trailer Also Needs Inspection
Trailers also require inspections annually. We offer inspections on those, as well as the following trailer services:
- Alignment
- Brake Work
- Floor Maintenance
- Lift Gate Service
- Tire Care
- Body Repairs
- Welding
- And More!
We can also inspect your heavy-duty rig and the trailer during the same appointment for added convenience!
Choose a Qualified Inspector
The most important thing to consider when thinking about your truck’s inspections is to choose a reputable, qualified inspector. M&L has been completing these services since 2009, and we are qualified to perform both Maryland state and DOT inspections.
Schedule your inspection appointment with us today:
Meet M&L Heavy-Duty Truck Mechanic, Ben Johnson
Heavy-duty mechanic Ben Johnson is one of our younger techs who has learned and excelled with us here at M&L. His first car was a 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer and his favorite tool is the 1/2″ cordless impact gun.