"Tell Me" Questions
You answer these questions before you start driving, usually while standing outside the car or sitting in the driver's seat with the engine off.
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.
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. Note: Some restraints might not be adjustable.
Ensure there are no cuts or bulges in the sidewall.
There must be 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre, and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.
Explain you’d operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).
Warning light should illuminate on the dashboard if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.
Explain you’d operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), and then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).
Explain you’d operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help stand behind the car.
If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, 2 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.
Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use (visibility reduced to less than 100 metres).
Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light (usually a blue symbol on dashboard).
Under The Bonnet
For these questions, you will have to open the bonnet and physically point to the correct items.
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Point out the dipstick or oil level indicator.
Explain that you would remove the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth, reinsert it fully, remove it again, and check the oil level is between the minimum and maximum markers.
Identify the coolant header tank (usually a clear plastic container with pink, blue or green liquid).
Point out the "High/Max" and "Low/Min" markings on the side of the tank and explain the level should be between them. Only top up when the engine is cold.
Identify the brake fluid reservoir.
Check the fluid level against the high and low markings on the side of the translucent container.
"Show Me" Questions
Demonstrate using the rear wash/wipe control (often on the wiper stalk). Keep your eyes on the road and cancel/return controls afterwards.
Demonstrate using the front screen wash/wipe control (often pull the wiper stalk towards you). Use it briefly and return to normal driving.
Turn on dipped headlights using the headlight control (usually a dial to the right of the wheel, or on the indicator stalk).
Point out the green dipped headlight icon that illuminates on the dashboard.
Press the rear demister/heated rear window button (usually a rectangular icon with squiggly lines) and confirm the indicator light turns on.
Briefly press the horn pad/button (usually on the center of the steering wheel). Ensure it is safe and appropriate to do so (e.g., not frightening pedestrians).
Set airflow directed to the windscreen (front demist setting icon), increase fan speed to maximum, and turn on Air Conditioning (A/C) if available to dry the air. Keep attention on the road.
Operate the electric window switch on the driver's door to open and then close the window, maintaining full control of the steering.