Show me/tell me questions

CAR TEST

♦ Show me/explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made.  Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, shuld result in slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate.  Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.  If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly.

♦ (Tell) Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has suffcient oil.

Identify dipstick/oil lever indicator, descried check of oil level against the min/max markers.

♦ (Tell) Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine collant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level.

Identify high/low level markings on the header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and descride how to top up to correct level.

♦ Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear.  Make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle.

Apply footbrake firmly.  Demonstrate by applying parking brake (handbrake) that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.

♦ (Tell) Open the bonnet, identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.

♦ (Tell) Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid is and tell me how you would check that you haave a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

Identify reservoir, check level against min/max markings.

♦ Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).

Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary.

♦ Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.

♦ Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tailights are working.  No need to exit vehicle).

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary) then walk round vehicle (as this is a "Tell Me" question there is no need to physically check the lights).

♦ Show me how you would check the brake lights are working on this car.  (I can assist you with this if you wish).  If you need to switch the ignition on, please don't start the engine.

Operate brake pedal, make use of reflectors in windows, garage doors etc or ask someone to help.  (The examiner is allowed to check for you).

♦ Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

With the engine running, brakes should not feel spongy of slack.  Brakes should be tested as you set off.  Vehicle should not pull to one side.

♦ Tell me where you find the information for the recommended tyre pressure for this car and how tyre pressure should be checked.

Manufacturers guide or owners manual, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressure when the tyres are cold, don't forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.

♦ Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.

No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

♦ Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washers and wipers.

Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen.  ( You may wneed to switch the ignition on but you should not start the engine.

♦ Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively.  This should include both front and rear screens.

Set all relevant controls, including fan, temperature, air direction/source and heated screen to clear cindscreen and windows.  Engine does not have to be started for this demostration.

♦ Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(S) and explain when you would use it/them.  (No need to exit the vehicle).

Operate switch turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary, check warning light is on.  Explain when to use fog lights.

♦ Show me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and expalin how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car.

Operate switch with ignition or engine on if necessary, check with main beam warning light.

♦ Tell me how to make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.

The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable.

♦ Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.

Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.