Tell Me Questions

Question 1

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

Answer 1

Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings

Question 2

Identify windscreen washer level and tell me how you would check the level

Answer 2

Identify reservoir and explain how to check level (has a blue top), just top up, no levels

Question 3

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 3

Identify high/low markings on header where fitted or radiator cap and describe how to top up to the correct level, must be up to maximum line

Question 4

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

Answer 4

Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, oil must be up to the maximum mark

Question 5

Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog light and when they should be used

Answer 5

Turn on dipped headlights. Check warning light is on. Use fog lights when visibility is low and less than 100 metres (e.g. foggy)

Question 6

Tell me how you would check that the power steering is working

Answer 6

You would start the engine and gently rock steering, it should feel easy and not heavy

Question 7

Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car

Answer 7

You would use the brake pedal and use reflections in windows/garages or ask a friend for help

Question 8

Tell me how you would check the direction indicators are working

Answer 8

Apply the indicators/hazards and ask a friend to check they are functioning or check yourself

Question 9

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

Answer 9

Warning light will illuminate if there is a problem with the ABS system

Question 10

Tell me how you would check that the headlights/tail lights are working

Answer 10

Turn the lights to dipped beam and walk around the car checking they are all working

Question 11

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

Answer 11

No cuts/bulges and a minimum of 1.6mm tread depth across the central three quarters and around the circumference

Question 12

Tell me how you would make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted

Answer 12

Should be adjusted so that the middle part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye/top of the ears

Question 13

Tell me how you would switch your headlights from dipped to main beam

Answer 13

Operate switch check with blue main beam. Warning light will come on

Question 14

Tell me where you would find the information for the tyre pressure and how it should be checked

Answer 14

Manufacturer’s guide, reliable pressure gauge, check/adjust when cold, always have spare tyre, refit valve caps

Question 15

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

Answer 15

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