If one-fourth of the leaves in a leaf spring are missing during inspection, what will happen?

When one-fourth of the leaves in a leaf spring are missing during inspection, it indicates a significant issue with the vehicle's suspension system. Leaf springs are crucial for supporting the vehicle's weight, providing stability, and ensuring proper handling. Missing leaves can lead to uneven weight distribution, increased wear on other suspension components, and potential loss of control while driving. Due to the critical nature of the suspension's effectiveness for safe vehicle operation, a vehicle with such a deficiency is deemed unsafe. Therefore, it must be placed out-of-service until the necessary repairs are made to restore proper functionality. This step prioritizes safety on the road for both the driver and others.