The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining Your Fleet Between CVIP Inspections

For fleet operators in Edmonton, AB, and beyond, staying CVIP (Commercial Vehicle Inspection Program) compliant is crucial for keeping vehicles roadworthy, avoiding fines, and ensuring safety. But passing a CVIP inspection isn’t just about showing up with your truck—it’s about consistent maintenance between inspections to prevent costly repairs and unexpected failures.

At Trucklife Fleet Services Ltd., we’ve seen firsthand how fleets prioritizing year-round maintenance have fewer breakdowns, lower operating costs, and better CVIP pass rates. Here’s how to keep your fleet in top condition between inspections.

Understanding the CVIP Inspection Requirements

Before diving into maintenance strategies, it’s essential to understand what a CVIP inspection covers. In Alberta, commercial vehicles over 4,500 kg (light trucks) or 11,794 kg (heavy trucks and buses) must pass a mandatory annual or semi-annual inspection to meet provincial safety standards.

CVIP Inspection Covers

• Brakes & Air Systems: Checking for proper adjustment, leaks, and wear.
• Suspension & Steering: Ensuring safe handling and shock absorption.
• Tires & Wheels: Looking for tread depth, damage, and proper inflation.
• Lights & Electrical: Confirming visibility and warning system functionality.
• Frame & Body Components: Ensuring no structural damage or rust issues.

Failing a CVIP can lead to immediate out-of-service orders, fines, and operational delays, making routine maintenance essential.

1. Implement a Preventative Maintenance Schedule

The best way to maintain fleet vehicles between inspections is to stay ahead of potential problems. A well-planned preventative maintenance (PM) schedule keeps trucks in shape and helps avoid costly CVIP failures.

Best Practices for Preventative Maintenance

• Follow OEM Service Intervals: Stick to manufacturer-recommended maintenance cycles.
• Schedule Regular Inspections: Check brakes, tires, suspension, and fluids monthly.
• Keep Detailed Maintenance Logs: Record all servicing, repairs, and parts replacements.
• Use Telematics & Fleet Software: Automate maintenance tracking to prevent missed service dates.

A strong PM program extends vehicle lifespan and prepares your fleet for CVIP inspections without last-minute stress.

2. Train Drivers on Daily Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Inspections

Fleet managers aren’t the only ones responsible for vehicle health—drivers play a crucial role in spotting issues early. A small, undetected problem can turn into a CVIP failure if ignored for too long.

Key Areas for Driver Inspections

• Brakes & Air Systems: Listen for leaks, check slack adjusters, and monitor air pressure.
• Lights & Signals: Ensure all bulbs, flashers, and indicators work properly.
• Tire Condition: Look for low tread, sidewall cracks, or uneven wear.
• Fluid Levels: Check oil, coolant, transmission, and DEF levels daily.
• Leaks & Underbody Checks: Spot fuel, coolant, or hydraulic fluid leaks before they worsen.

Encouraging drivers to report issues immediately leads to faster repairs and fewer last-minute CVIP failures.

3. Prioritize Brake System Maintenance

One of the most common CVIP failure points is the brake system. Air brake systems require precise adjustments and regular servicing to function correctly.

How to Keep Brakes CVIP-Ready

• Adjust Slack Adjusters: Ensure proper stroke length to meet CVIP standards.
• Inspect Brake Drums & Linings: Replace any worn or damaged components.
• Check for Air Leaks: Hissing sounds or pressure drops signal problems.
• Test Emergency & Parking Brakes: Ensure they engage entirely under load.

Brake failures are expensive and a major safety risk. Regular maintenance ensures your fleet stays compliant and safe.

4. Stay Ahead of Tire and Suspension Wear

CVIP inspections require tires, axles, and suspension components to be in good condition. Worn-out parts cause compliance failures and affect vehicle stability and fuel efficiency.

How to Extend Tire & Suspension Life

• Rotate Tires Every 10,000-15,000 km: Promotes even wear and better traction.
• Maintain Proper Tire Inflation: Reduces rolling resistance and increases fuel efficiency.
• Inspect Shocks & Bushings: Replace damaged or leaking suspension components.
• Check for Steering Play: Loose steering can lead to compliance issues and unsafe handling.

A well-maintained suspension and tire system helps trucks pass CVIP inspections and perform efficiently year-round.

5. Keep Up with Fluids and Filters

Fluids and filters might not seem like a big deal, but ignoring them can lead to engine damage, transmission failures, and DOT violations.

Critical Fluids to Monitor

• Engine Oil & Filters: Change at manufacturer-recommended intervals.
• Coolant & Radiator Levels: Prevent overheating and engine wear.
• Transmission & Differential Fluids: Ensure smooth gear shifting and drivetrain performance.
• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF): Required for emissions compliance; top off regularly.

Using high-quality lubricants and filters can improve engine efficiency, reduce wear, and help vehicles pass CVIP inspections easily.

6. Document Everything for Compliance

Having a clear record of maintenance isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for CVIP compliance. If an inspector sees incomplete records, they may assume maintenance is lacking.

What to Document

• Date and mileage of all inspections & repairs
• Parts replaced and service details
• Driver reports on mechanical issues
• Oil changes, fluid refills, and brake adjustments
• CVIP history and previous compliance notes

Using a fleet management system to track maintenance ensures nothing gets overlooked and provides proof of compliance if needed.

Final Thoughts

Waiting until a CVIP inspection to check your fleet’s condition is a costly mistake. The best way to pass without hassle is to maintain your trucks year-round, ensuring brakes, tires, fluids, and suspension are in peak condition.

At Trucklife Fleet Services Ltd. in Edmonton, AB, we specialize in CVIP inspections, fleet maintenance, and compliance support. Whether you need preventative servicing, emergency repairs, or fleet consultation, our expert team is here to help.