'Tell me' Question
Your test begins with one Tell Me question. These relate to the maintenance and operation of your car and failure to answer this correctly will result in a driver fault – remember you are only allowed 15 in total on your test report. Below are the questions you could be asked. |
Tell me how you would check that the direction indicators are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.
Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey. Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. Tell me how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked. 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. 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. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash. 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. 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. Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working (no need to exit vehicle). Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle). Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system. Tell 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. |
Explain you would 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).
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Test the brakes as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side when pressing brake pedal. Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (May need to switch ignition on, do not start engine). If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be make. 1. 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. 2. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning. 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. Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers. Identify high/low level markings on coolant tank and describe how and where to top up to correct level. The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part (middle) of the head restraint is in line with your eyes 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. Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings. No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. Explanation: 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). Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use. Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system. Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light. |
'Show me' questions - Where you show how you'd carry out a safety task while you're driving. (You will only be asked to carry out 1 task).
1. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
2. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
3. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you would switch on your dipped headlights?
4. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you would set the rear demister?
5. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you would operate the horn?
6. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you would demist the front windscreen?
7. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you would open and close the side window?
1. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
2. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
3. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you would switch on your dipped headlights?
4. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you would set the rear demister?
5. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you would operate the horn?
6. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you would demist the front windscreen?
7. When its safe to do so, can you show me how you would open and close the side window?