When inspecting the kingpin during pre-trip, look for:
Correct. A worn, cracked, or bent kingpin can fail under load. The locking jaws must close completely around the shank, not just the head.
CDL Practice Question #200
Category: Combination Vehicles
Why this question matters
This question is one of 55 in our Combination Vehicles bank. The reasoning above comes directly from the AAMVA CDL Manual, the source document used by every U.S. state DMV. Memorizing the underlying rule — not just the letter answer — is what separates passing on the first attempt from a return trip and another fee.