FMCSR 393.86: Rear End Protection (ICC Bumper) Q&A

No. Across our inspection database, code 393.86 has resulted in zero out-of-service placements all-time, with a 0.0% OOS rate. While 393.86 is OOS-eligible under FMCSA rules, the data shows inspectors have not placed trucks out of service for this violation. That said, you still need to fix it—the defect itself violates federal requirements and can be re-cited on your next inspection until corrected.

Code 393.86 carries a CSA severity weight of 5 points. Your total monthly impact depends on how many violations you accumulate in the 30-day CSA window. If this is your only citation this month, 5 points will be applied to your Unsafe Driving or Maintenance BASIC. Multiple citations in 30 days compound the score. Work with your carrier or a compliance advisor to understand your full CSA profile.

Take these steps immediately:

1. Photograph the defect — document the missing or damaged ICC bumper from multiple angles with date and time.
2. Get a repair quote — contact a certified truck repair shop; ICC bumper replacement typically takes 1–3 days.
3. Notify your carrier/fleet manager — do not delay; they need to know for CSA tracking and insurance purposes.
4. Keep repair receipts — you may need proof of correction if cited again or during an audit.
5. Schedule repair within 48–72 hours if possible to minimize re-citation risk.

Do not operate the vehicle on public roads longer than necessary.

In context, 393.86 is relatively low-enforcement. Our records show zero citations for this code all-time, compared to 660,737 for inoperable required lamps (393.9(a), 15.4% OOS rate) and 180,363 for slack adjuster defects (393.47E, 0.0% OOS rate). While ICC bumper violations are rare in roadside enforcement, that does not mean you can ignore it—the regulation exists because rear impact guards protect other vehicles and are federally required.

Yes, you can request a DataQs Review through FMCSA within 60 days of citation. Since 393.86 is an equipment-condition violation, your challenge must show either: (1) the defect did not exist at the time of inspection (unlikely if photographed), or (2) the inspection method was improper. Gather photographs, maintenance records, and repair invoices as evidence. Submit your DataQs case through your carrier's FMCSA Safety Management System account or consult a compliance advocate for guidance.

Fix it within 48–72 hours. Although the 0.0% OOS rate means you are unlikely to be taken out of service, the violation will remain on record and you can be re-cited at the next inspection until corrected. The longer you delay, the higher your risk of a second citation, which compounds your CSA score. Most carriers require proof of repair within one business day of citation.

Our inspection database does not show state-level enforcement data for code 393.86 because all-time citations are zero. This means the violation is either not being cited during roadside inspections or is cited so rarely that it does not appear in the top-state distribution. If you were cited in a particular state, contact that state's DOT to understand local enforcement priorities for rear-end protection.

Both. CSA violations are attributed to both the driver and the motor carrier. For vehicle maintenance codes like 393.86, the citation typically reflects on the carrier's Maintenance BASIC, but it also appears on your driver record if you were driving at the time of inspection. Your carrier's compliance score affects their ability to operate and insurance costs. Review your own driver FMCSA profile and ensure your carrier is working to prevent future citations.