What must be true for the steering rack and pinion to not fail an inspection?

For the steering rack and pinion to not fail an inspection, it must not be leaking badly. The integrity of the steering system is crucial for safe vehicle operation, as any significant leakage can lead to a loss of steering control, which poses a serious safety risk. A properly functioning steering rack should be able to maintain hydraulic pressure and fluid levels necessary for smooth steering performance. If there are leaks that are bad enough to affect the operation of the steering components, it would be flagged during the inspection.

Other considerations, such as rust, length, and the presence of a protective cover, are important for overall vehicle maintenance and safety but are not as critical as addressing leaks. Rust may affect structural integrity over time, but a small amount may not lead to immediate failure, and the length is typically standardized and not a direct factor in passing an inspection. While a protective cover can help prevent debris from entering the steering mechanism, its absence may not lead to failure unless there's visible damage resulting from exposure to the elements. Hence, the absence of significant leaking is the primary concern during an inspection of the steering rack and pinion system.