When is a tire required to be removed during a safety inspection?

A tire is required to be removed during a safety inspection when there is a problem severe enough to potentially compromise the safety and performance of the vehicle. The option regarding hearing metal on metal noise signifies a critical level of damage or wear that requires immediate attention. Such noise typically indicates that parts of the brake system are grinding against one another due to worn components, which could compromise braking performance.

Addressing issues that lead to this type of noise is critical for maintaining vehicle safety. If the brake pads are excessively worn, they can cause irreversible damage to the rotors and significantly lessen the effectiveness of the braking system, posing a serious safety risk.

In contrast, other options describe conditions that may be concerning but do not inherently require tire removal. For example, visible tread wear could indicate a need for replacement, but unless it's severe enough to create a hazard, the tire might not need to be removed immediately. Similarly, low tire pressure is often a routine maintenance issue rather than a condition that necessitates removal, and a tire with a puncture may be repairable depending on its location and severity.