Which of the following is NOT a requirement for wipers during the pre-trip inspection?

Wipers must be in good condition to ensure visibility and safety while driving, and each requirement plays a role in their functionality. The correct response indicates that wipers do not necessarily need to touch the windshield in a functional state during the pre-trip inspection.

While wipers are designed to make contact with the windshield to effectively clear water and debris, during a pre-trip inspection, the main focus is on the condition and secure attachment of the wipers and the proper operation of the washer system. The wipers must be rubber without tears to prevent streaks and damage to the windshield. They must also be securely mounted to the wiper arm to avoid them coming loose during operation. Additionally, the washer system needs to spray properly to aid in clearing the windshield when needed.

The choice regarding whether wipers touch the windshield is not a requirement, as wipers can still function correctly even if they are not currently in contact with the surface when at rest. Thus, while touching the windshield is an operational characteristic, it is not a criterion that must be evaluated during the pre-trip inspection process.