Which of the following could be a reason for a vehicle to fail an inspection?

A vehicle may fail an inspection for a variety of reasons that pertain to safety and compliance with state regulations. One significant reason for failure is the presence of broken headlights. Headlights are crucial for visibility during nighttime driving and in poor weather conditions, and they also play a vital role in ensuring that the driver can spot pedestrians and other vehicles on the road. If headlights are broken, it can severely compromise safety; thus, this issue must be addressed for a vehicle to pass inspection.

The other options do not typically cause a vehicle to fail an inspection. New tires, for example, are generally considered an improvement and would not be a reason for failure. Low tire pressure, while important for performance and safety, often results in an advisory rather than a failure if the tires are otherwise in good condition. A freshly washed exterior, while it may enhance appearance, does not have any impact on the vehicle’s ability to meet safety standards. Therefore, broken headlights are a critical safety concern that directly leads to failure during the inspection process.