Show Me, Tell Me

Question 1

Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check the engine had sufficient oil.

Answer 1

Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe the check of oil against the minimum/maximum markers

Question 2

Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check the engine has the correct level.

Answer 2

Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to fill up to the correct level when the engine is cold

Question 3

Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you had a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

Answer 3

Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings

Question 4

Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

Answer 4

Open the bonnet and identify reservoir and explain how to check level

Question 5

Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressure for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked

Answer 5

Manufacturers guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to fit valve caps

Question 6

Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road

Answer 6

Check that there are no cuts or bulges and there is at least 1.6mm of tread depth across central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the outer circumference

Question 7

Tell me how you would check the brakes are working before starting a journey

Answer 7

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side

Question 8

Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working (no need to exit vehicle)

Answer 8

Operate the light switch (turn on ignition if necessary). (No need to physically check the lights)

Question 9

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

Answer 9

The head restraint should be adjusted so that the centre of 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 (NB some head restraints might not be adjustable)

Question 10

Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system

Answer 10

Warning light on the dashboard should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system

Question 11

Show me/explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey

Answer 11

If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, 2 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 12

Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. If you need to switch the ignition on, please don’t start the engine

Answer 12

Operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors etc, or ask someone to help. As this is now a show me question, the examiner may check the brake lights for you. You may need to switch the ignition on, however you should not start the engine

Question 13

Show me how you check that the directional indicators are working

Answer 13

Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators. You may need to switch the ignition on, however you should not start the engine

Question 14

Show me how you would check that the horn is working.

Answer 14

Check is carried out using control. You may need to switch the ignition on, however don’t start the engine

Question 15

Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear. Make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle

Answer 15

Apply the foot brake firmly. Demonstrate by applying parking brake (handbrake) so that it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel

Question 16

Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers

Answer 16

Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen. You may need to switch ignition on, however you should not start the engine

Question 17

Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear the windows effectively. This should include both front and rear screens

Answer 17

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 18

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. Don’t start engine)

Answer 18

Operate switch to turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary. Check warning light is on. Explain when you would use fog lights

Question 19

Show me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst in the car

Answer 19

Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning lights