'Show Me, Tell Me' Questions and Answers

Below is a list of the questions which will be asked on the test. Answers are those suggested by us. - Download a copy

Tell me questions

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

Applying pressure to the brake pedal, it should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off, the vehicle should stop smoothly and efficiently and not pull to one side.

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

Pressures are found in the manufacturer’s guide (sometimes inside the door or fuel cap). Using a reliable pressure gauge, remove the valve caps, check the pressures when tyres are cold, remembering the spare tyre. Re-fit the valve caps.

NOTE: Remember that if the vehicle is fully loaded the tyres should be adjusted accordingly – refer to manufacturer's guide. Always inflate your spare tyre to the maximum pressure (It's a lot easier to release some than to add it at the road side!)

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

Ensure that there are no cuts and bulges. Tread depth should be 1.6mm across the central 3/4 (75%) of the entire outer circumference (If easier, 1.6mm across the tyres surface that is in contact with the road).

Tell me how you 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 level with your eyes and ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable. It is a restraint not a rest. It can save your life in the event of an accident!

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

Tell the examiner “Turn on the lights, then walk round vehicle.” (Note: this is a "Tell Me" question, there is no need to physically exit the vehicle to check the lights.)

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

An ABS warning light should illuminate if there is a fault. (NOTE: This can be seen when the ignition is first switched on, but should clear immediately)

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

Identify the dipstick, remove it. Clean the dipstick, replace it. Remove the dipstick and check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

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

Locate the reservoir (Look for the (O) brake symbol), check level against Max/Min markings

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

Locate the engine coolant. Check level using the gauge on the side.

Identify reservoir and explain how the washer fluid should be filled to a level between the min and max markers on the side of the reservoir. If there is no way to check the level then you should top it up regularly.

Remember: Winter weather requires a higher fluid concentration.

Show Me Questions

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

Apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel, wheel should be stiff. Maintain pressure while the engine is started, the wheel should become looser and easier to move.(Avoid dry steering)

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

Apply footbrake firmly, Demonstrate by applying parking brake so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and does not come to the end of it's working travel.

Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only)