How should wheel bearings be evaluated during an inspection?

During a vehicle inspection, evaluating wheel bearings is crucial because they play a vital role in the performance and safety of the vehicle. The correct answer emphasizes that wheel bearings must permit smooth rotation without excessive play. This means when you spin a wheel, it should rotate freely and quietly, indicating that the bearings are functioning properly. Excessive play or roughness might suggest wear or damage, potentially leading to failure, which could compromise vehicle safety.

In contrast, the presence of rust indicates deterioration and could compromise the integrity of the bearings, which is undesirable. While complete sealing of wheel bearings is ideal, it doesn't reflect their operational status. Additionally, stating that wheel bearings should not be inspected contradicts the need for regular maintenance checks to ensure safe vehicle operation. Therefore, ensuring that wheel bearings allow smooth rotation with no excessive play is the key criterion for a proper evaluation during an inspection.