Which safety feature must be present and operational during a vehicle inspection?

Seat belts are crucial safety features that must be present and operational during a vehicle inspection for several reasons. They are essential components of a vehicle's passive safety system, designed to secure occupants in their seats and minimize the risk of injury during a collision. The presence and functionality of seat belts are vital for ensuring the safety of both the driver and passengers, as they help prevent ejection from the vehicle and reduce the impact of a crash.

In a vehicle inspection, a failure to have working seat belts may lead to a rejection of the inspection, as it compromises the vehicle's safety standards mandated by laws. This underscores the importance of having all necessary safety features, like seat belts, not only installed but also functioning correctly to protect occupants on the road. Other features such as sunroofs, aftermarket stereos, and leather seats, while they may add to the comfort and aesthetic appeal of the vehicle, do not have an essential role in ensuring safety during operation and are not required to pass an inspection.