Tell Me Questions

Question 1

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 1

Identify the dipstick, pull it out and check the oil level against the min/max markings

Question 2

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

Answer 2

Identify high/low level markings on coolant tank; check the coolant level against the min/max markings

Question 3

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

Answer 3

Identify reservoir and explain how to check level. Reservoir level should be topped

Question 4

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

Answer 4

Identify reservoir, check level against min/max markings on the side

Question 5

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

Answer 5

Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors etc, or ask someone to help

Question 6

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

Answer 6

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

Question 7

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

Answer 7

You would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures on the manufacturer’s guides. To check tyre pressures use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, check all tyres including spare

Question 8

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

Answer 8

No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference

Question 9

Tell me how you would make sure head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the protection in the event of a crash

Answer 9

The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid (middle) part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and close to the back of the head as is comfortable

Question 10

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

Answer 10

Warning light on the dash board should illuminate if there is a fault with the ABS