Which can lead to an out-of-service order being issued for a vehicle?

The issuance of an out-of-service order for a vehicle is a serious action that indicates the vehicle is not safe for operation on public roads. Critical safety deficiencies identified during inspection are the key factor in this determination. Such deficiencies might include issues with brakes, tires, lights, steering, or other essential components that affect the vehicle's safe operation.

The safety inspection process is designed to ensure that vehicles meet specific safety standards, and if any critical component is found to be defective or failing, it poses a significant risk not only to the driver but also to other road users. The objective of an out-of-service order is to prevent potentially dangerous vehicles from being operated until the necessary repairs have been made.

In contrast, minor aesthetic damage or failing to carry an extra tire does not typically compromise the vehicle's core operational safety and thus would not warrant an out-of-service status. Additionally, while inadequate driver training documents are important for compliance and operational safety, they do not directly affect the physical condition of the vehicle itself, which is the primary concern during safety inspections. Therefore, only significant safety deficiencies can lead to an out-of-service order.