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Show Me Tell Me

Q1 – Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey. Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

Q2 – Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
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.

Q3 – Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
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.

Q4 – 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.
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.

Q5 – Tell me how you would check that the headlights & taillights are working. (No need to exit vehicle)
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.)

Q6 – Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.
Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system. (ABS light)

Q7 – Tell me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators
(may need to switch on ignition if necessary).
(As this is a “Tell Me” question, there is no need to physically check the lights.)

Q8 – Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car.
Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, or ask someone to help.
(may need to switch on ignition if necessary).

Q9 – Tell me 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, 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.

Q10 – 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)
Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use. (When visibility is reduced to 100 metres)

Q11 – 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.
Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light. (BLUE light)

Q12 – Tell me how you would check the engine has sufficient oil level.
Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

Q13 – Tell me how you would check the engine has sufficient coolant level.
Identify high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

Q14 – Tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

Q15 – Show me how you would wash and clear the rear windscreen.
Operate control to wash and wipe rear windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary).

Q16 – Show me how you would wash and clear the front windscreen.
Operate control to wash and wipe front windscreen. (turn ignition on if necessary)

Q17 – Show me how you would switch on your dipped headlights.
Operate switch and check dipped warning light. (GREEN light)

Q18 – Show me how you would set the rear demister.
Operate rear demister control.

Q19 – Show me how you would operate the horn.
Press the horn.

Q20 – Show me how you would demist the front windscreen.
Operate front windscreen demister control.

Q21 – Show me how you would open and close the side window.
Operate window control.

 

*Note:

FAILURE TO ANSWER ONE OR BOTH QUESTIONS IS ONE FAULT ONLY.