Section 396.5 covers lubrication of CMVs and inspection during lubrication. Active leaks of oil, fuel, or coolant are commonly cited under this section as evidence of inadequate maintenance.
Common findings
- Engine oil leak from the valve cover or pan.
- Transmission fluid leak at the rear seal.
- Coolant leak at a hose or radiator.
- Power steering fluid leak.
- Excess grease accumulation that prevents inspection of components.
OOS implications
A fuel leak is treated more seriously than oil — fuel leaks are out-of-service conditions. Other fluid leaks are typically not OOS unless severe.
How to prevent it
- Pre-trip walk-around with a quick under-vehicle look — fresh drips on the ground are the easiest tell.
- Address slow leaks during scheduled maintenance, not when they become heavy leaks.
- Clean the engine and chassis periodically so a new leak is visible.
- Document every repair on the maintenance log.
How Roadworthy HQ helps
DVIR exceptions for fluid leaks generate maintenance work items and feed the vehicle's repair history. Repeated leak findings on the same component surface as patterns.