Tell Me Questions
Q1 – 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 ignition on, prompt not to start engine)
Q2 – Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don’t start the engine)
- Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (you may need to switch ignition on, but do not start engine)
Q3 – Tell me / explain 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 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.
Q4 – Tell me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear, make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle.
- Apply footbrake firmly. Demonstrate by applying parking brake (handbrake) so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.
Q5 – 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.
- Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.
Q6 – 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.
- Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
Q7 – 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.
- Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.
Q8 – 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.
Q9 – 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.
Q10 – Tell Me where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
- Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.
Q11 – 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.
Q12 – 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. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable.
Q13 – 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 3/4 (three quarters) of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Q14 – Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system.
- A warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.
Q15 – Tell me how you would check your headlights and tailights are working
- Explain you’d operate the 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).
Q16 – Tell me how you would switch your headlights from dipped beam to full beam and how you would tell they were on
- Operate switch and make sure main beam warning light is on
Show Me Questions
Q1 – When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
- Operate rear window washers
Q2 – When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
- Operate front window washers
Q3 – When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d switch on your dipped headlights?
- Operate headlight switch and turn to dipped beam position
Q4 -When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d set the rear demister?
- Press switch to switch on rear demister
Q5 – When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d operate the horn?
- Press the horn
Q6 – When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d demist the front windscreen?
- Operate the switch to demist the front windows
Q7 – When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d open and close the side window?
- Operate the switches to open and close the front windows