What is the inspector's responsibility regarding the vehicle's exterior mirror?

The inspector's responsibility concerning the vehicle's exterior mirror is to ensure that it provides a clear view of the surroundings. This is crucial for safety, as mirrors play an essential role in allowing drivers to see areas that are not directly visible through their windows. If the exterior mirrors are cracked, missing, or otherwise impaired, this can significantly hinder the driver's ability to monitor traffic and obstacles around the vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents.

While checking the mirror, the inspector will assess its integrity and ensure it is properly adjusted. This focus on visibility aligns with safety regulations that prioritize a driver's awareness of their surroundings. The other options do touch on aspects of vehicle maintenance or inspection procedures, but they do not address the core requirement of ensuring that the mirrors function correctly to enhance safety on the road.