How should you test the horn during the pre-trip inspection?

During a pre-trip inspection, it is essential to ensure that all safety-related components of the vehicle, including the horn, are in proper working condition. Pressing the horn once to check its functionality allows the driver to quickly determine whether the horn is operational. This method is efficient and straightforward, confirming that the horn emits sound, which is crucial for alerting pedestrians and other drivers to the vehicle's presence.

The correct approach focuses on the effectiveness and operational status of the horn rather than its duration of use or volume level. Continuous sounding for an extended period or solely checking volume might not accurately reflect whether the horn can function when needed in a critical driving situation. Thus, pressing it once establishes that it works without unnecessary prolongation or distraction during the inspection process.