257. You are checking your steering and exhaust systems in your pre-trip inspection. Which of these problems should be fixed before the vehicle is driven?
Detailed Explanation
The correct answer is "Steering play- more than 10% (2 inches on a 20 inch wheel).". 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 play- more than 10% (2 inches on a 20 inch wheel).
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 play- more than 10% (2 inches on a 20 inch wheel)." because this answer matches the safe CDL action for pre-trip inspection procedure. 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
- Oil on the tie rod."Oil on the tie rod." does not best answer this pre-trip inspection procedure 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.
- Grey smoke from the exhaust pipe."Grey smoke from the exhaust pipe." does not best answer this pre-trip inspection procedure 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.
Ready to practice for real?
Take our free, full-length General Knowledge practice test. Simulates the actual DMV exam with timed questions.
Start Practice TestRelated Questions
321. Which of these problems, if discovered while checking your steering exhaust system, must be fixed before driving the vehicle?
109. During a pre-trip inspection you discover an exhaust leak or power steering leak, you should:
130. You are checking your brakes and suspension system for a pre-trip inspection. Which of these statements is true?
18. You are checking your tires for a pre-trip inspection. Which of these statements is true?
20. An en route inspection should include checking 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.