Show Me & Tell Me Questions
Ok on the day of your test your examiner will ask you two questions relating to basic car maintenance, and these count towards passing your test. You will be asked one show and one tell getting one or both incorrect will result in a minor driving fault on your test sheet.
Under the bonnet
Q1. Open the bonet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
A1. Identify the dipstick: with the car on level ground and cold engine pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean, replace the dipstick and then pull it out again to check the oil is between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.
Q2. Open the bonnet and identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check the engine has the correct level.
A2. Identify the header tank minimum and maximum markings and then describe how to top up to the correct level.
Q3. Open the bonnet and identify the windscreen washer reservoir and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
A3. Identify the reservoir and explian how to check the level by looking in or putting water up on to the windscreen (remember you will have to turn the ignition on but not start the engine).
Q4. Open the bonnet and idnetify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
A4. Identify the reservoir and check the fluid is between the minimum and maximum markings.
Show me questions
Q1. show me and explian how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
A1. 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. Or alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is working correctly.
Q2. Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear, make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle.
A2. You apply the footbrake firmly. Then demonstrate by applying the parking brake so when it's fully applied it secures itself, but is not at the end of it's working travel.
Q3. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).
A3. Press the horn and listen for the beep (you may need to turn the ignition on do not start the engine).
Q4. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
A4. Apply the indicators or hazzard warning swicth walk around the vehicle and check all the indicators are working.
Q5. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can assist you if needed)
A5. Switch the ignition on (do not start the engine) press the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors or ask someone to help. (so if you could stand at the rear of the car for me please).
Q6. Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
A6. Operate control to wash and wipe the windscreen (you will need to turn the ignition on but do not start the engine)
Q7. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens.
A7. Set all relevant controls including, fan, temperature, air direction/source and heated screen to clear windsreen and windows. (the engine does not have to be started for this demonstration).
Q8. Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them (no need to exit the vehicle).
A8. Turn on the ignition (do not start the engine) switch headlight to dipped beam, the switch for light(s) on , check warning light is on and the explain when to use them.
Q9. Show me how you would switch your headlight from dipped beam to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car.
A9. Turn on the ignition (do not start the engine) switch the headlights to dipped beam then operate main beam switch and check for the warning light.
Tell me questions
Q1 Tell me how would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
A1 Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off, the vehicle shound not pull to one side.
Q2 Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. (there's no need ot exit the car)
A2 (turn the ignition on do not start the engine) Operate the light switch, then walk around the car. (this is a "tell me" question so you do not have to physically check the lights)
Q3 Tell me where you would the information for the recommened tyre pressure for this car and how the tyre pressures should be checked.
A3 Trye pressure will be found in the manufacturer's guide, use a reliable presure gauge, check and adjust the pressures when the tyres are cold, and don't forget the spare tyre and remember to refit the valve caps.
Q4 Tell me how oyu would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
A4 No cuts and bulges, there should be a minimun tread depth of 1.6mm across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Q5 Tell me how you make sure the head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
A5 The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is a least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. (some head restraints mifht not be adjustable)
Q6 Tell me how you know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.
A6 A warrning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.
Please feel free to print these off, and learn them ready for your test day. You may be able to get your dad or another family member to help you with this on your family car.
