Which of the following should be checked during an inspection of wheel rims?

The condition of wheel rims is critical for vehicle safety and performance, and one of the most crucial factors to assess is the presence of cracks or bends. Cracks can compromise the structural integrity of the rim, potentially leading to failure during operation, which poses a serious safety risk. Bends can also affect how the tire sits on the rim and how the vehicle handles, which could result in uneven tire wear or difficulties in steering.

While assessing the color and paint condition might provide insight into the overall maintenance of the vehicle, it does not directly impact the functionality and safety of the wheel rim. Similarly, the presence of dirt on the rim is more related to cleanliness rather than structural integrity. While alignment with the vehicle body is important for overall vehicle performance, it does not specifically indicate the condition of the wheel rim itself, which is primarily about its structural characteristics. Therefore, focusing on cracks and bends provides the most essential information for ensuring the rim's reliability and safety on the road.