Which of the following is NOT a recommended condition to check during a visual vehicle examination?

In a visual vehicle examination, certain conditions are prioritized for assessment to ensure safety and functionality. Engine noise, while significant for diagnosing mechanical issues, cannot be assessed through a visual inspection alone. It requires either listening to the engine while it runs or performing tests that involve sound assessment. In contrast, the other conditions listed—scratched paint, missing or broken light covers, and fluid leaks—can be easily identified visually. Scratched paint might indicate cosmetic damage, while missing or broken light covers can compromise the vehicle's visibility and safety. Fluid leaks can point to potential mechanical failures that are visible beneath the vehicle or along its components. Thus, emphasizing visual checks helps in identifying immediate concerns that could affect safety and performance, making aural assessments like engine noise not applicable in this context.