What should be inspected regularly to ensure safe and proper vehicle handling?

Regular inspection of tire tread is crucial for ensuring safe and proper vehicle handling. Tires are the only contact point between the vehicle and the road, directly affecting traction, handling, and braking performance. Worn or inadequate tread depth can lead to reduced grip, particularly in adverse conditions such as rain or snow, which significantly raises the risk of accidents.

Adequate tread depth allows for effective water displacement, preventing hydroplaning and enhancing overall control of the vehicle. By regularly checking the tire tread, drivers can ensure their tires can perform optimally, contributing to overall vehicle safety and handling.

The other options, while important for vehicle maintenance, do not directly impact handling to the same extent. Windshield wipers primarily affect visibility, while transmission fluid is vital for transmission functionality but does not relate to handling. Headlights are essential for visibility at night and in poor conditions, but again, they do not directly influence how the vehicle responds to driver inputs regarding handling.