147. What items should be checked for safety on the steering column?
Detailed Explanation
The correct answer is "Steering arms should not have missing nut, bolts or cotter keys.". This question tests pre-trip inspection and identifying a defect before it creates an on-road emergency. For a differently worded version of this question, identify the hazard first and then choose the answer that preserves control, visibility, or legal compliance.
Correct Answer: Steering arms should not have missing nut, bolts or cotter keys.
Why This Matters on the CDL Test
Use this as part of your General Knowledge review. The real CDL knowledge test rewards drivers who understand the reason behind each rule, not only the answer letter, so read the explanation and then try a few related questions.
How to Remember It
Say the rule in your own words, then explain why the wrong answers are unsafe or incomplete. That habit makes similar General Knowledge questions easier when the exam changes the wording.
Answer Review
Choose "Steering arms should not have missing nut, bolts or cotter keys." because this answer matches the safe CDL action for general knowledge knowledge. On the knowledge test, the safest answer is usually the one that protects space, control, visibility, legal compliance, or inspection accuracy before the vehicle is put at risk.
Why the other answers are weaker
- Up to 1/4 of the steering parts may be broken."Up to 1/4 of the steering parts may be broken." does not best answer this general knowledge knowledge question. When you see a similar option on the CDL permit test, compare it against the exact safety rule and choose the answer that prevents the most immediate risk.
- Steering arms should not have mismatched, bent or cracked lug nuts."Steering arms should not have mismatched, bent or cracked lug nuts." does not best answer this general knowledge knowledge question. When you see a similar option on the CDL permit test, compare it against the exact safety rule and choose the answer that prevents the most immediate risk.
Test-Day Checklist
- Read the question once for the topic, then read it again for the exact CDL action being tested in General Knowledge.
- Eliminate answers that sound convenient but skip an inspection, warning sign, or safety step.
- Say the correct rule out loud before moving on so you can recognize it when the exam changes the wording.
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258. Which of these items is NOT checked on a pre-trip inspection?
79. Which of these items is checked in a pre-trip inspection?
If a vehicle is equipped with power steering, the hoses should be checked:
109. During a pre-trip inspection you discover an exhaust leak or power steering leak, you should:
127. Prior to driving, what are some of the items you should check the interior of the bus for?
Keep Studying General Knowledge
Question pages help you review one rule at a time. To build test-day speed, move back into the full General Knowledge practice test and answer a mixed set without looking at the explanation first.
State CDL Practice Paths
After you understand this answer, use a state practice path to connect the federal CDL rule with the DMV test pages drivers search for most.