Show Me, Tell Me

On your practical driving test, you will be asked two ‘show and tell’ questions about safety and maintenance checks on your car. Getting one or both of them wrong will count as a driving fault on your practical driving test.

‘Tell me’ questions

Q1: 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.

A:  You Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

Q2: 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.

A: Identify high/low level markings on header tank (where fitted) or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

Q3: Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is, and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

A: Identify reservoir and explain how to check level. Check your car’s manual to see how to do this.

Q4: 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.

A: Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

Q5: Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car.

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

Q6: Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

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

Q7: Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

A: 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.

Q8: 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.

A: 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.

‘Show me’ questions

Q9: Show me/explain how you would check that the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

A: 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.

Q10: Show me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.

A: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.

Q11: Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

A: Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and walking around the vehicle to check functioning of all indicators.

Q12: Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off-road only).

A: Check is carried out by using the control (turn on ignition if necessary).

Q13: Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.

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

What questions can you expect on your test?

Your examiner will ask you one ‘show me’ and one ‘tell me’ question, usually in the following combinations: