Complete state safety inspection procedure for 2014 Ram 2500 with 6.7L Cummins Diesel, including all required checks for lights, brakes, steering, suspension, exhaust, and emissions systems per state inspection requirements.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface in well-lit inspection area
2. Set parking brake and place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Ensure engine is cold enough to safely touch exhaust components
4. Verify vehicle registration and VIN match inspection documents
5. Start engine and allow to reach operating temperature for emissions check

Procedure

1. 1

   Perform exterior lighting inspection
   Check all exterior lights for proper operation. Test headlights (low and high beam), turn signals (front and rear), brake lights, reverse lights, license plate light, and side marker lights. Check for proper headlight aim using alignment tool or screen at 25 feet. Verify all lenses are intact without cracks and securely mounted. Check hazard lights operate all four corners simultaneously.
2. 2

   Inspect windshield and wipers
   Examine windshield for cracks or chips larger than 3/4 inch in driver's view area or any damage extending to edge. Test windshield wipers on all speeds and verify proper blade contact across entire sweep. Check washer fluid operation and verify fluid level is adequate. Inspect wiper blades for tears, separation, or hardening.
3. 3

   Check horn and interior controls
   Test horn for proper operation and adequate volume. Verify all dashboard warning lights illuminate with key on/engine off, then extinguish after engine start (except for active warning conditions). Check that check engine light, ABS light, airbag light, and diesel particulate filter (DPF) light function properly. Verify emergency brake warning light operates when parking brake is engaged.
4. 4

   Inspect tires and wheels
   Check all four tires plus spare for minimum tread depth of 2/32 inch using tread depth gauge (measure at three points across each tire). Inspect for uneven wear patterns, sidewall damage, bulges, or exposed cords. Verify tire size matches all four corners and is appropriate for vehicle. Check wheel lug nuts for proper tightness and verify no damaged or missing studs. Inspect for proper tire inflation using TPMS reading or manual gauge against door placard specification.
5. 5

   Test brake system operation
   With engine running, pump brake pedal several times and verify firm pedal with no excessive travel. Apply and hold brake pedal with 50-75 lbs force for 30 seconds to check for pedal fade or sinking. Test parking brake by attempting to move vehicle with parking brake engaged in both forward and reverse. Check brake fluid level in master cylinder reservoir and verify fluid is clear, not dark or contaminated. Listen for unusual noises during brake application.
6. 6

   Perform OBD-II emissions system check
   Connect OBD-II scan tool to diagnostic port under driver side dash. With ignition on and engine running, check for presence of any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Verify all emissions monitors are in 'ready' status (some monitors may not be ready if recently cleared). For 2014 6.7L Cummins, verify DPF system status shows no active regeneration faults. Check that Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL/Check Engine Light) is not illuminated with engine running. Document any pending codes even if MIL is not illuminated.
7. 7

   Raise vehicle for undercarriage inspection
   Raise vehicle using floor jack at manufacturer-specified front and rear lift points. Support securely on jack stands rated for vehicle weight (minimum 6000 lbs capacity per stand). Shake vehicle to verify stability before working underneath. Remove front wheels for brake and steering inspection if required by state regulations.
8. 8

   Inspect steering and suspension components
   Check all steering linkage components for excessive wear or damage: tie rod ends, drag link, steering stabilizer, and Pitman arm. Use pry bar to check for play in ball joints and tie rod ends (should have no detectable movement). Inspect control arm bushings for cracking or separation. Check shock absorbers for leaks or damage. Examine leaf springs for broken leaves, loose U-bolts, or damaged shackles. Verify steering gear box has no external leaks and mounting bolts are secure.
9. 9

   Inspect brake components
   Examine front brake rotors for minimum thickness, excessive scoring, or heat cracks. Check brake pads for minimum thickness of 3/32 inch lining material above backing plate. Inspect brake calipers for leaks, damaged boots, or seized slide pins. Check brake hoses for cracks, bulges, or chafing. Inspect brake lines for corrosion, damage, or leaks at all connection points. For rear drum or disc brakes (depending on configuration), verify adequate lining material and no fluid leaks. Check parking brake cables for fraying or binding.
10. 10

    Examine exhaust system
    Inspect entire exhaust system from turbocharger outlet to tailpipe exit. Check for holes, severe rust-through, or loose connections. Verify all hangers are intact and exhaust has proper clearance from fuel lines, brake lines, and body components. Examine diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system for physical damage. Check for exhaust leaks at manifold, turbo connections, and all clamp joints. Verify tailpipe extends past body and does not discharge under vehicle.
11. 11

    Inspect fuel system and tank
    Examine diesel fuel tank for damage, rust-through, or leaks. Check fuel filler cap for proper seal and verify cap is present and secured. Inspect visible fuel lines under vehicle for damage, chafing, or leaks. Verify fuel tank straps are secure and not severely corroded. Check for fuel odor indicating potential leak.
12. 12

    Check drivetrain and differential components
    Inspect front and rear driveshafts for damaged or missing U-joint straps, excessive play in U-joints, or damaged CV boots on front axle. Check transfer case for external leaks or damage. Examine front and rear differential housings for leaks at pinion seal, axle seals, and cover gaskets. Verify differential cover bolts are secure. Check 4WD engagement mechanism for damage if accessible.
13. 13

    Inspect frame and body structure
    Examine frame rails for cracks, severe rust, or damage that compromises structural integrity. Check for evidence of collision damage or improper repairs. Verify all body panels and doors open and close properly and are securely attached. Check that hood latch operates correctly and hood does not have excessive play when closed. Inspect bed mounting and verify bed is properly secured to frame.
14. 14

    Lower vehicle and perform road test
    Lower vehicle from jack stands and reinstall wheels if removed. Torque wheel lug nuts in star pattern. Perform road test to verify proper brake operation at various speeds without pulling or vibration. Test steering for proper operation without excessive play or binding. Accelerate and verify transmission shifts smoothly through all gears. Listen for abnormal noises from drivetrain or suspension. Verify speedometer operates accurately.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any components removed during inspection
2. Verify all wheels are properly torqued if removed
3. Clean inspection area and dispose of any waste materials properly

Verification

• Review all inspection items against state-specific checklist and verify compliance or document failures
• Ensure all lighting and electrical systems function as tested
• Verify OBD-II system shows no active fault codes and monitors are ready
• Confirm brake system operation meets safety standards with no leaks or excessive wear
• Document any items requiring repair before vehicle can pass inspection
• Complete inspection certificate or rejection notice per state requirements

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