What happens if one-fourth of a spring's leaves are broken or missing?

If one-fourth of a spring's leaves are broken or missing, it can significantly compromise the vehicle's suspension system, which is crucial for maintaining stability, handling, and comfort while driving. The integrity of the springs is essential for safely supporting the weight of the vehicle and allowing for proper handling under various driving conditions.

When a substantial portion of the spring is damaged, it usually indicates that the vehicle is no longer safe to operate, which is why it is considered illegal to drive the vehicle in such a condition. Operating a vehicle with a compromised suspension can lead to further damage or even accidents due to loss of control. Therefore, the correct response highlights the necessity of addressing this issue to ensure safety and compliance with vehicle regulations.