Show Me / Tell Me Questions (Vehicle Check Questions)
Q: 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.
A: Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against
the minimum/maximum markers.
Q: 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.
A: Identify high/low level markings on header tank (where fitted) or
radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
Q: Open the bonnet identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is,
and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
A: Identify reservoir and explain how to check level. Check your car’s
manual to see how to do this.
Q: 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.
A: Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.
Q: Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this
car.
A: Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors
etc, or ask someone to help.
Q: Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before
starting a journey.
A: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set
off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
Q: Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended
tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
A: 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.
Q: 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.
A: No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the
breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Q: Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted
so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash
A: 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
Q: 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
Q: Show me/explain how you would check that the power-assisted
steering is working before starting a journey.
A: 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.
Q: Show me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are
working.
A: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.
Q: Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are
working.
A: Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and walking around the
vehicle to check functioning of all indicators.
Q: Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off-road
only).
A: Check is carried out by using the control (turn on ignition if necessary).
Q: Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.
A: Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it is fully applied it
secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel
Q : Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen
washer and wiper
A: Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if
necessary.
Q: Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the
windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens
A: 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
Q: 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)
A: Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary).
Check warning light is on. Explain use
Q: Show 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)
A: Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors,
etc, or ask someone to help. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to
start engine)
Q: 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
A: Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main
beam warning light