Using the AAMVA seven-step vehicle inspection method, which step comes immediately after inspecting the engine compartment?

AAMVA CDL Manual (nhcdm.pdf) Section 2.1.5, pp. 2-3 to 2-7; required under 49 CFR 396.13 and tested per 49 CFR 383.111(a)(17)

Following the seven steps in order, every time, is how drivers catch defects before they become roadside breakdowns or crashes. Skipping or reordering steps is the most common reason real-world pre-trip inspections miss a problem. The CDL skills test also grades inspections on completing the steps in the correct sequence, not just finding defects.