Malfunctions of ELD
Curious about the procedures to follow in the event of an ELD malfunction? Obtain step-by-step guidance from the FMCSA on how to address issues during an ELD malfunction.
What to do if ELD malfunctions ?
The FMCSA outlines a step-by-step procedure for addressing an ELD malfunction, as per CFR §395.34. If you encounter an ELD malfunction affecting your ability to accurately maintain Records of Duty Status (RODS), you should:
- Document the ELD malfunction and inform the motor carrier in writing within 24 hours.
- Reconstruct your logs for the current day and the preceding seven days, excluding days where records are already available or retrievable from the ELD.
- Resort to handwritten logs until the ELD is operational again. However, manual recording of Hours of Service (HOS) on paper logs should not exceed eight days following the malfunction.
Additionally, the FMCSA suggests drivers perform a basic reboot of the ELD to ensure it is ready to receive data when the Engine Control Module (ECM) connection sends it.
In the event that the carrier cannot repair, replace, or service the malfunctioning ELD within eight days, the carrier must submit an extension request within five days of becoming aware of the ELD malfunction.