Driving test candidates will be asked two questions, one “show me" and one "tell me". One or both questions answered incorrectly will result in one driving fault being recorded.

Question 1

Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Answer 1

Identify dipstick and describe checking of oil level against the minimum / maximum markers.

Question 2

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

Answer 2

If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a 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.

Question 3

Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check the engine has the correct level.

Answer 3

Identify max / min level markings on header tank.

Question 4

Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.

Answer 4

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

Question 5

Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level

Answer 5

Identify reservoir and explain that you need to top it up regularly.

Question 6

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

Answer 6

Press the horn button.

Question 7

Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid

Answer 7

Identify reservoir, check level against min / max marks.

Question 8

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

Answer 8

Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and checking functioning of all indicators by walking around the car.

Question 9

Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car

Answer 9

Operate brake pedal, make use of reflection in windows, garage doors etc. or ask someone to help.

Question 10

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

Answer 10

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

Question 11

Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working.

Answer 11

Explain that you would turn on the ignition, turn on headlight switch, walk round vehicle checking all are operating correctly.

Question 12

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

Answer 12

No cuts and bulges. 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3⁄4 of the breath of the tyre and around the entire outer circumferences.

Question 13

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

Answer 13

Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don't forget the spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.

Question 14

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

Answer 14

Wash the windscreen (turn ignition on first).

Question 15

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

Answer 15

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

Question 16

Show me how you would switch on the rear fog

light and explain when you would use it. (No need to exit vehicle).

Answer 16

Turn on the ignition, turn on headlights, pull headlight switch towards you. Check warning light on dashboard is on. Explain you would use them if visibility is 100m or less.

Question 17

Show me how you switch your headlight from

dipped to main beam and explain how you would

know the main beam is on whilst inside the car.

Answer 17

Turn on the ignition, turn on headlights, pull indicator lever towards you, check warning light on dashboard is on.

Question 18

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

Answer 18

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. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable.

Question 19

Tell me how you would know if there was a

problem with your anti lock braking system.

Answer 19

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