Some example safety check questions
The Driving Test includes two questions designed to examine your knowledge of car safety checks. Some examples of the "Show me" questions where need to demonstrate how to do the check and "Tell Me" where you need to explain how to do the check are listed below:
"Show me" questions
- Show me how to check that the power steering is working
- Show me how to check the handbrake for too much wear.
- Demonstrate that the horn is working (not on road).
- Show me how to check the direction indicators operate correctly.
- Show me how to check the operation of the headlights & tail lights.
"Tell Me" questions
- Open the bonnet, and tell me how to check the engine oil level.
- Open the bonnet, and point to the engine coolant level reservoir. Explain how to check the right level
- Point to the windscreen washer reservoir, and explain how to check the windscreen washer level.
- Open the bonnet, point to the brake fluid reservoir, and tell me how to check that you have sufficient hydraulic brake fluid.
- Tell me how to check the brake lights are operating correctly.
- Tell me how to check that the brakes are working at the start of a journey.
- Tell me where to find tyre pressures for this car, and explain how tyre pressures should be checked.
- Explain how to check a tyre’s tread depth, and general safe condition.
Question: Show me how to check that the power steering is working.
Answer: Apply gentle pressure on the steering wheel, while starting the engine - slight movement of the wheel as the engine starts. Or turn the steering wheel just after moving off - should be easy to turn.
Question: Show me how to check the handbrake for too much wear.
Answer: Demonstrate by pulling the handbrake hard. Show it is secure, and is not at the end of it’s movement.
Question: Demonstrate that the horn is working (not on road).
Answer: Sound the horn (turn on ignition if required).
Question: Show me how to check the direction indicators operate correctly.
Answer: Operate the indicators or hazard warning lights, and walk round the car to check they all work.
Question: Show me how to check the operation of the headlights & tail lights.
Answer: Switch the lights on (turn on ignition if necessary), and walk round the car.
Question: Open the bonnet, and tell me how to check the engine oil level.
Answer: Point to the dipstick, and explain how to read the oil level against the max and min markers.
Question: Open the bonnet, and point to the engine coolant level reservoir. Explain how to check the right level.
Answer: Identify high/low level markings on the header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to the correct level.
Question: Point to the windscreen washer reservoir, and explain how to check the windscreen washer level.
Answer: Identify the reservoir, and explain how to check the washer level.
Question: Open the bonnet, point to the brake fluid reservoir, and tell me how to check that you have sufficient hydraulic brake fluid.
Answer: Identify the reservoir, and explain the high/low markings.
Question: Tell me how to check the brake lights are operating correctly.
Answer: Explain how to press the brake pedal, while watching reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or while asking someone else to watch.
Question: Tell me how to check that the brakes are working at the start of a journey.
Answer: Brake pedal should feel firm. Brakes should be tried as you move off. Vehicle should hold straight.
Question: Tell me where to find tyre pressures for this car, and explain how tyre pressures should be checked.
Answer: Car’s operating handbook. Use a reliable pressure gauge, check pressures when the tyres are cold, also spare tyre, and remember to put the valve caps back.
Question: Explain how to check a tyre’s tread depth, and general safe condition.
Answer: Tread depth at least 1.6 mm over the central three quarters, and all round the tyre. No sign of damage, such as cuts or bulges.