Which of the following is true regarding tire conditions for passing inspection?

Tires must have adequate tread depth and be free from damage to pass inspection because proper tread depth is essential for maintaining traction on the road, particularly in wet or slippery conditions. Insufficient tread can lead to hydroplaning or reduced grip, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, tires that are damaged—such as those with sidewall bulges, cuts, or punctures—can compromise safety and vehicle performance.

While all-season tires may be a practical choice for many drivers, the inspection standards focus primarily on tread depth and damage rather than the type of tire. Inflating tires to maximum pressure is also important for tire health, but the inspection does not require them to be inflated to that level; the ideal is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Finally, tires are not required to match the manufacturer's specifications exactly, provided they meet safety criteria. Hence, emphasis on tread depth and absence of damage aligns with the core purpose of the inspection process, which is ensuring vehicles are safe to operate.