Safety Checks
Safety Checks (show me tell me questions)
At the beginning of your practical test you will be asked some show me tell me safety check questions.
You will usually be asked 2 of the following questions.
Engine Oil Level
Q) Identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
A) Open the bonnet, Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.
Engine Coolant Level
Q) 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.
Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Q) 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.
Windscreen Washer Level
Q) 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.
Indicators
Q) Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
A) Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.(may need to switch ignition on)
Headlights & Tail Lights
Q) Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working.
A) Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), no need to get out as this is a tell me question.
Dipped Beam & Main Beam
Q) Show me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst you are in the car.
A) Turn the headlight switch to dipped beam position then operate main beam switch to on position (usually flick the indicator switch towards you or push away, check the main beam warning light is on on the dashboard (usually blue).
Fog Lights
Q)Show me how you would switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you would use them.
A) Turn on Ignition, Switch dipped beam headlights on, operate fog light switch and check warning light on dashboard is on for rear fog lights. Explain use (at times of reduced visibility, normally if visibility is less than 100 meters)
Brake Lights
Q)Show me how you would check the brake lights are working on this car
A) Operate the brake pedal make use of reflections in windows or garage doors or ask someone to help (may need to switch ignition on)
Tyres
Q) 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.
Q) 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 three quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Anti Lock Braking system
Q)Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system.
A) The warning light should illuminate on the dashboard if there is a problem.
Foot brake
Q) Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
A) Pump the Brake pedal, it should not feel spongy or slack, as you start the engine keep the pedal pressed and you should feel the pedal go down slightly, this shows the brake servo is working properly. Tap the Brake pedal as you set off to make sure they take effect. As you brake the vehicle should not pull to one side.
Handbrake
Q) Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.
A) Put your foot on the foot brake to keep the car still, release the Handbrake then re-apply. The Handbrake should, when when it is fully applied secure itself, and not be at the full extent of it's working travel.
Power Steering
Q) 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.
(i) 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.
(ii) Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.
Horn
Q) Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).
A) Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).
Windscreen Washers
Q) Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
A) Operate the control to wash and wipe the windscreen (may need to turn ignition on)
Demister Controls
Q) Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens.
A) For the front screen; Switch on the fan, and direct the airflow to the front screen using the relevant vent controls and perhaps directing the relevant vents themselves towards the windows. For the rear screen; Switch on the heated rear screen.
Head Restraint
Q) Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
A) To offer you the best protection against injury the head restraint should be adjusted so that the main part of your head at about ear or eye level would contact the main part of the head restraint (some are not adjustable) .