FMCSR 393.65 — Flat or Leaking Tires: Driver Q&A

Yes, it can. Across our 13 million inspection records, 393.65 citations result in an out-of-service order 40.7% of the time. That's higher than the all-FMCSR average of 31.4%, so inspectors take tire safety seriously. Whether you'll be placed OOS depends on the inspector's assessment of the flat or leak severity—some tires are repaired roadside, others ground the vehicle until fixed. If you're cited, ask the inspector for clarification on whether repair is required before moving or if you can limp to a shop.

This violation carries a CSA severity weight of 8. Your total CSA points depend on how the violation is recorded in your carrier's BASIC 5 category (Vehicle Maintenance). The severity weight is then multiplied by a factor that varies based on when the violation occurred within the 30-day window—more recent violations carry a higher multiplier. Over time, accumulating Vehicle Maintenance violations can push your BASIC 5 score higher, which affects your driver profile and your carrier's safety rating.

First: stop the vehicle safely and inspect all tires for leaks or flatness. Second: if the tire is audibly leaking, you cannot safely operate the vehicle—call roadside assistance. Third: if it's borderline, ask the inspector whether you can limp to a nearby shop with their permission. Fourth: get the tire repaired or replaced immediately. Fifth: document the repair receipt and the date. Our data shows 393.65 often appears alongside fuel system leaks (396.5B), maintenance deficiencies (396.3A1), and lamp issues (393.9), so conduct a full pre-trip inspection before continuing—don't assume only the tire is the problem.

Yes, relative to its peers. Across our database, 393.65 ranks #949 out of 3,036 FMCSR codes by overall citation volume (464 all-time), so it's not the most common violation. However, its 40.7% out-of-service rate sits well above codes like inoperable lamps (6.9% OOS) and windshield defects (0.3% OOS), indicating DOT inspectors view tire safety as non-negotiable. The violation directly affects vehicle safety in motion, which is why enforcement is stricter than for documentation or minor lamp issues.

Yes. The FMCSA's DataQs (Request for Data Review) process allows you or your carrier to contest any roadside inspection finding within 90 days of the citation. For 393.65, contestability depends on whether the citation was based on a clear equipment defect (the tire is flat or audibly leaking) versus inspector judgment about air pressure. If the inspector's measurement or observation was incorrect, or if you can prove the tire was repaired before the citation was recorded, DataQs is your path. Gather photos, repair receipts, and witness contact info immediately—don't wait.

Texas leads by far: across the last 180 days, our records show 59 citations in TX, though only 8.5% resulted in out-of-service orders. New Mexico is second with 2 citations (100% OOS rate), and Illinois third with 1. The heavy concentration in Texas reflects both the volume of commercial traffic on Texas routes and DOT inspection frequency there. If you operate in Texas, prioritize tire maintenance as part of your pre-trip routine—the data shows TX inspectors are actively citing this violation.

Urgent. In the last 90 days, we've recorded 36 citations for 393.65, with a noticeable spike in October 2025 (19 citations) and February 2026 (17 citations). Over the past 12 months, the violation is trending upward in inspector enforcement, particularly in winter months when tire pressure drops and punctures worsen. Don't delay repair—a flat or audibly leaking tire is a safety hazard and an OOS risk. If you're already cited, repair before your next inspection. If you haven't been cited, treat tire checks as non-negotiable during your pre-trip.

Both. Vehicle Maintenance violations (BASIC 5) are assigned to the specific unit inspected and also roll up into your carrier's BASIC 5 safety profile. A citation for a flat tire on your truck is recorded against your company's fleet safety rating and contributed to your individual driver record. If you're an owner-operator, the citation is tied to your USDOT number. For fleet managers: our data shows carriers like J.B. Hunt, Western Express, and others have received multiple 393.65 citations, indicating systemic tire maintenance gaps. Implement a tire pressure monitoring program and schedule preventive replacements to reduce violations.