If a previous driver finds defects and notes them on a DVIR, what must you ensure before operating the vehicle again?

When a previous driver identifies defects and records them on a Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR), it is essential to ensure that all defective items are repaired before operating the vehicle again. This practice is critical for maintaining safety standards and ensuring the vehicle is in a safe operating condition. Any defects, regardless of how minor they may seem, can lead to a higher risk of accidents or malfunctions during operation. By addressing all noted defects, you are adhering to federal and state regulations that prioritize safety on the road, significantly reducing the possibility of trouble while driving.

The other choices, while they may pertain to vehicle operation, do not directly address the urgent safety concern raised by the DVIR. Cleaning the vehicle, ensuring an adequate fuel level, or checking vehicle registration are all important, but they do not take precedence over ensuring that the vehicle is free from defects that could compromise the safety of the driver and others on the road.