Frequently Asked Questions
Tell Me Questions
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 tasted as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
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.
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.
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, I .6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.
Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working (no need to exit vehicle)
Explain you’d operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle. As this is a ‘tell me’ question, there’s no need to physically check the lights.
Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system
Warming light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system
Tell me how you'd check the direction indicators are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.
Explain you’d operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle. As this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights.
Tell me how you would check the brake lights are working on this car
Explain you’d operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help.
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.
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.
Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on
Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil
Identify dipstick I oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum and maximum markers
Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant
Identify the high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level
Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid
Identify reservoir, check level against high and low markings
Show Me Questions
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
Operate control to wash and wipe rear windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary)
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
Operate control to wash and wipe front windscreen (tum ignition on if necessary)
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd switch on your dipped headlights?
Select relevant control (turn on ignition if necessary).
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd set the rear demister?
Select relevant control and switch on (turn on ignition if necessary)
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd operate the horn?
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd demist the front windscreen?
set all relevant controls including fan, temperature and air direction (heated screen if available) to clear front windscreen (turn on ignition if necessary)
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd open and close the side window?
Select the correct window button and push (turn on ignition if necessary), or use the window winder if fitted.