I’ve Failed My BIT Inspection, What Do I Do Next?

Failing a Basic Inspection of Terminals (BIT) can feel overwhelming, but it’s not the end of the road. This mandatory inspection, conducted every 90 days, ensures your fleet complies with safety regulations set by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). If you’ve failed, don’t panic—follow these steps to address the issues and get back on the road quickly and safely.

Step 1: Understand Why You Failed

The first thing to do is review the inspection report provided by the CHP. This document will outline the violations or deficiencies that led to the failure. Common reasons include:

• Brake System Issues: Air leaks, worn brake pads, or malfunctioning components.
• Lighting Problems: Faulty or missing lights and reflectors.
• Tire Conditions: Bald tires, improper inflation, or mismatched sizes.
• Documentation Errors: Missing or incomplete maintenance records.
• Oil Leaks and Fluid Levels: Visible leaks or insufficient fluid levels.

Thoroughly understanding the report will help you prioritize repairs and ensure compliance.

Step 2: Address Immediate Safety Concerns

If the inspection revealed critical safety violations, resolve them immediately to prevent further penalties or unsafe driving conditions. For example:

• Brake Repairs: Replace worn brake shoes, repair air leaks, or adjust slack adjusters.
• Tire Replacement: Install properly rated and sized tires to meet safety standards.
• Lighting Repairs: Fix or replace malfunctioning lights and install missing reflectors.

For urgent repairs, mobile services like A Plus Mobile Maintenance in Brea, CA, can come to you, minimizing downtime and keeping your fleet operational.

Step 3: Gather and Update Documentation

One of the most overlooked reasons for BIT failures is incomplete or missing documentation. Ensure you have the following:

• Inspection Records: Proof of previous 90-day inspections.
• Maintenance Logs: Detailed records of repairs and services performed.
• Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs): Daily pre- and post-trip inspection reports.
• Training Certifications: Documentation showing drivers and mechanics are properly trained.

Having well-organized and up-to-date records is not just a compliance requirement—it also demonstrates your commitment to safety.

Step 4: Conduct a Comprehensive Reinspection

Before re-submitting for a BIT inspection, ensure all deficiencies have been addressed by conducting a mock inspection. Check the following areas:

1. Brakes and Suspension: Look for leaks, worn components, or damaged parts.
2. Lights and Reflectors: Test all lighting systems and replace any missing reflectors.
3. Tires and Wheels: Verify proper inflation, tread depth, and wheel alignment.
4. Fluid Levels: Ensure oil, coolant, and other fluids are at proper levels with no visible leaks.
5. Documentation: Organize all inspection and maintenance records for easy access.

Step 5: Schedule Repairs with a Trusted Service

If you lack the in-house expertise to handle all repairs, partner with a trusted repair provider like A Plus Mobile Maintenance. Mobile services are especially useful for resolving issues quickly and conveniently. From brake repairs to lighting system checks, professional mechanics can ensure your fleet is ready to pass the BIT inspection.

Step 6: Reschedule Your BIT Inspection

Once repairs are complete and documentation is updated, contact the CHP to schedule a reinspection. Keep in mind that unresolved issues could result in additional penalties or suspension of operating privileges.

Step 7: Implement Preventive Maintenance Practices

Avoid future failures by establishing a robust preventive maintenance program:

• Regular Inspections: Conduct internal 90-day inspections to stay ahead of issues.
• Driver Training: Teach drivers to identify and report potential problems during daily inspections.
• Professional Partnerships: Work with reliable maintenance providers to address concerns proactively.
• Documentation Protocols: Keep a system in place to track inspections, repairs, and maintenance.

Benefits of Partnering with A Plus Mobile Maintenance

At A Plus Mobile Maintenance in Brea, CA, we specialize in helping fleets maintain compliance and avoid costly BIT failures. With mobile services tailored to your needs, we bring the shop to you, minimizing downtime while ensuring your fleet operates at peak safety standards. From emergency repairs to preventive maintenance, we’re here to help you navigate the BIT process with confidence.

Learn More

Failing a BIT inspection can be a stressful experience, but it’s also an opportunity to improve your fleet's safety and compliance practices. By addressing violations promptly, updating documentation, and partnering with experts like A Plus Mobile Maintenance in Brea, CA, you can get your fleet back on the road with minimal disruption. Need professional assistance to pass your next BIT inspection? Contact us today to schedule repairs or a mock inspection!