Learning Aids

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

Apply the indicators or hazard warning light switch and then walk around the vehicle, checking that all indicators are working. You may need to switch the ignition on, but you do not need to start the engine.

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

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack when pressed. Test the brakes as you set off: the vehicle should not pull to one side when you apply them.

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

Identify the washer fluid reservoir under the bonnet and explain that you would check the level against the markings on the side, topping up as necessary.

4. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car.

Press the brake pedal and use reflections in windows, garage doors or other surfaces to check the lights, or ask someone to help. You may need to switch the ignition on, but you do not need to start the engine.

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

If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, two simple checks can be made:

• Apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel while starting the engine. You should feel 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.

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

Tyre pressure information can usually be found in the manufacturer’s guide, and often on a sticker inside the driver’s door or fuel cap. Use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when the tyres are cold, and do not forget the spare tyre. Always refit the valve caps after checking.

7. Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear.

With the footbrake applied firmly, demonstrate by applying the parking brake so that when it is fully applied it secures the vehicle and is not at the end of its working travel.

8. 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.

Identify the dipstick or oil level indicator. Explain that you would remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert and remove again to check the oil level is between the minimum and maximum markers.

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

Identify the header tank or radiator filler cap area and the high/low level markings. Explain that you would check the coolant is between these marks and only top up when the engine is cool.

10. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted for the best protection.

The rigid part of the head restraint should be at least as high as the top of your ears or eyes, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. Note that some head restraints may not be adjustable.

11. 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.

Identify the brake fluid reservoir and check the fluid level against the high and low markings on the side.

12. Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and are safe to use on the road.

There should be no cuts or bulges on the tyres. The tread depth must be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

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

Use the horn control to check it is working. You may need to turn on the ignition, but you should carry out this check off the road so you do not startle other road users.

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

Operate the windscreen washer and wiper controls to wash and wipe the screen. You may need to turn on the ignition, but you do not need to start the engine.

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

Operate the lights switch (turning on the ignition if necessary), then walk around the vehicle to check that the headlights and tail lights are on. As this is a “Tell Me” question, you only need to explain what you would do.

16. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively.

Set the relevant controls including the fan, temperature and air direction to the windscreen and windows, and use the heated front and rear screens where fitted. The engine does not need to be started.

17. Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use them.

Operate the rear fog light switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary), then check the fog light warning symbol is illuminated. Explain that fog lights are used when visibility is seriously reduced, generally to less than 100 metres.

18. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system (ABS).

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

19. Show me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on.

Operate the headlight and main beam control (with ignition or engine on if necessary) and check that the main beam warning light (usually blue) is showing on the dashboard.