Do rim protectors pass a vehicle inspection?
Does the federal check mention them?
No. 49 CFR 570.10 doesn't mention rim protectors.
It checks a tire rim for visible cracks, elongated bolt holes, and repair by welding. It says the lateral and radial runout of each rim bead area can't exceed one-eighth of an inch, and that the wheel nuts and bolts have to be in place and tight.
Does that rule say a protector passes?
No. The rule doesn't say a rim protector passes or fails an inspection.
What does Washington's wheel rule say?
Washington's RCW 46.37.369 doesn't mention rim protectors. It bars certain wheel nuts, hub caps, or wheel discs that stick out past the body, when viewed from above, if they have winged projections or are a hazard to people walking or cycling.
It also says a tire rim or wheel disc can't show visible cracks, elongated bolt holes, or repair by welding, and it uses the same one-eighth-inch runout limit.
Does every state use that federal text?
No. 49 CFR 570.3 says this part does not itself impose requirements on any person. It is written for states to use when they inspect vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less, except motorcycles and trailers.
This page doesn't say what your state checks, and it doesn't say a rim protector is allowed where you live.
Check your tire and wheel after hitting a curb · Alloy wheel or a rim protector? · Wheel and rim words · Guides