Which statement about wheel bearing play is true?

The statement that 1/8 inch play is excessive is accurate because proper wheel bearings should have minimal play to ensure safe operation of the vehicle. If there is too much play in the wheel bearings, it can lead to increased wear and tear, heat generation, and ultimately failure of the bearing, which compromises vehicle safety.

An excess of play suggests that the bearings may be worn out or not properly adjusted, and this condition could result in poor handling and instability while driving. Safe vehicle operation requires that wheel bearings maintain a very small tolerance, often much less than an eighth of an inch, to prevent any undesirable effects on steering and tire wear.

Understanding the proper specifications for wheel bearing play is essential for vehicle safety inspections, as it directly affects the handling and stability of the vehicle on the road.