Which of the following indicates a vehicle is losing traction due to hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water on the road surface prevents the tires from making contact with the pavement, leading to a loss of traction. When a vehicle begins to hydroplane, it can feel as if it is 'floating' on the water, as the tires are no longer gripping the roadway effectively. This sensation is a critical indicator that traction is compromised.

In this scenario, the feeling of 'floating' signifies that the driver may not have control over the vehicle’s movement, which increases the risk of skidding and potential accidents. Recognizing this feeling is essential for drivers, as it prompts them to take appropriate corrective actions, such as easing off the accelerator and steering to regain control.

While factors like squealing tires, loss of steering, and wheel spin can indicate various issues with a vehicle’s traction or control, they do not specifically describe the sensation of hydroplaning as accurately as the feeling of floating. Therefore, recognizing that 'floating' implies a severe loss of connection between the tires and the road surface makes it the correct choice in identifying hydroplaning.