show me / tell me The possible questions and answers are listed below to help you prepare for this section of the practical test Show me now you would check that the direction indicators are working Apply the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators. (you may need to switch ignition on - not start engine) Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey The brakes should not feel spongy or slack. The brakes should be tested as you set off. The vehicle should pull to one side Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level. Identify reservoir and explain hot to check level 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 do not start the engine) Operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (may need to switch ignition on, not to start engine) Show 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 Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked Check the manufacturer guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, do not forget spare tyre and remember to refit valve caps Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear , make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle. Apply the footbrake firmly. Then demonstrate by applying the parking brake (handbrake) so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of its working travel. Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level. Identify reservoir and explain how to check the level Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tele how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil Identify the dipstick/oil level indicators, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressure for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked. Manufacturers guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps 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 hot to top up correct level. Tell me how you would 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, as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable. 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 reservoirs, check level against High/Low markings. 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 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only). The check is carried out by using control ( turn on ignition if necessary) 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 tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. 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 vehicles should not pull to one side Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary) Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working (no need to exit the vehicle) Explanation: operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk around the vehicle. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens Set all relevant controls including fan temperature, air direction/source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. The engine does not have to be started for this demonstration. Show me how you would switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you would use it/them.(No need to exit the vehicle). Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning lights is on. Explain use. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system. Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system 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.) Operate the brake pedal, make use of all reflections in windows, garage doors etc etc ask someone to help (may need to switch on the ignition but do not start the engine) Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working. (No need to exit the vehicle) Explanation: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round the vehicle( as this is a Tell Me question, there is no need to physically check the lights). Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is working and on whilst inside of the car. Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system. Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.