If the hydrostatic release mechanism for an inflatable liferaft is not periodically serviced and becomes inoperative, it will NOT __________.

Correct Answer: Option D — free the liferaft from a sinking vessel

Failure to service a hydrostatic release unit allows internal components like the spring mechanism or blade assembly to corrode or jam. Under 46 CFR regulations, an inoperative unit cannot sever the strap or release the painter line, failing to free the liferaft from a sinking vessel.