To test the vehicle shocks, what should the inspector do?

To test the vehicle shocks effectively, the inspector should press down on each corner of the vehicle. This method allows for an assessment of the shock absorbers' performance. When the inspector pushes down on a corner and then releases, the shock should rebound and the vehicle should return to its normal ride height without excessive bouncing. An effective shock absorber will dampen the movement, providing a stable ride. If the vehicle continues to bounce significantly after being pushed down, this indicates that the shocks may be worn or ineffective, thereby potentially compromising vehicle safety and handling.

Other methods, although relevant to vehicle inspection, do not specifically evaluate the shock absorbers' functionality in the same hands-on way. For instance, checking tire pressure is essential for overall vehicle safety but does not assess shocks directly. Inspecting visible damage can provide insights into general vehicle condition but won't measure shock performance. Measuring shock length could help assess whether shocks are of appropriate specifications but does not directly test their operational effectiveness.