Show Me/Tell Me

As part of your practical test you will be asked two show me/tell me questions which are designed to test your knowledge about the safety and maintenance checks on your vehicle. If you were to answer one or both of the questions incorrectly this would count as one driving fault.

Below is a list of the typical questions which you may be asked to answer, you will be asked one 'show me' and one 'tell me' question:

Question 1: 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.
Answer: Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

Question 2: Show me/explain how you would check that the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
Answer: 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.

Question 3: 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.
Answer: Identify high/low level markings on header tank (where fitted) or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

Question 4: Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear, make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle.
Answer: Apply footbrake firmly. Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.

Question 5: Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
Answer: Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.

Question 6: Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off-road only).
Answer: Check is carried out by using the control (turn on ignition if necessary).

Question 7: 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.
Answer: Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

Question 8: Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
Answer: Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and walking around the vehicle to check functioning of all indicators.

Question 9: Show me how you would check that the brake light are working on this car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don't start the engine).
Answer: Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors etc., or ask someone to help. (Don't start the engine).

Question 10: Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
Answer: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

Question 11: Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working. (No need to exit vehicle).
Answer: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle. (No need to physically check the lights).

Question 12: Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Answer: 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.

Question 13: 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.
Answer: No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

Question 14: Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
Answer: Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary).

Question 15: Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens.
Answer: Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration.

Question 16: Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle).
Answer: Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.

Question 17: Show 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.
Answer: Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.

Question 18: Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
Answer: 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. (Some restraints might not be adjustable).

Question 19: Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.
Answer: Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system