What should you not assume during the steering box portion of the vehicle inspection test?

During the steering box portion of the vehicle inspection test, it is critical not to assume that all cotter keys are present. Cotter keys are essential components that secure various parts of the steering system, and their absence can lead to serious issues, including steering failure. The inspection process requires a thorough and hands-on approach to ensure that everything is properly secured.

Making assumptions about the presence of cotter keys can lead to overlooking a potentially dangerous defect. Each component of the steering system should be physically checked to confirm its status instead of relying on assumptions. Ensuring the integrity of these components is vital for safe vehicle operation, as any failure in the steering system can result in loss of control.

In contrast, the other choices focus more on systems or components that need to be validated through inspection procedures rather than specific assumptions tied to the presence of parts. While confirming that lights are functioning, brakes are operational, or tires are properly inflated is also necessary, they do not carry the same level of criticality associated with ensuring that specific smaller parts, like cotter keys, are present and secure.