As part of the Practical Driving Test candidates have to demonstrate a knowledge of safety aspects. Candidate must show they are able to carry out routine maintenance checks.
The 'show and tell' questions require candidates to explain to examiners where and how to check tyres, brakes, fluid levels, lights, direction indicators and horns.
Candidates will be asked two questions, one 'show me' and one 'tell me' question. One or both questions answered incorrectly will result in one driving fault being recorded. (A list of the combinations can be found at the bottom of the page)
Q1: 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.
Q2: 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.
Q3: 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.
Q4: 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
Q5: 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
Q6: 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
Q7: 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.
Q8: 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 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference
Q9: 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
Q10: 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.
Q11: 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
Q12: Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).
A: Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).
Q13: 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.
Combinations of Questions
- Combination 1 – Questions 1 and 9
- Combination 2 – Questions 2 and 13
- Combination 3 – Questions 3 and 12
- Combination 4 – Questions 4 and 11
- Combination 5 – Questions 5 and 13
- Combination 6 – Questions 6 and 10
- Combination 7 – Questions 7 and 11
- Combination 8 – Questions 8 and 10
- Combination 9 – Questions 8 and 12
- Combination 10 – Questions 4 and 9
- Combination 11 – Questions 1 and 10
- Combination 12 – Questions 2 and 10
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