Show Me Tell Me Questions
DSA Show Me / Tell Me Questions
Show Me Tell Me Questions
When you go to take a practical driving test in the UK there are several questions you may be asked relating to vehicle safety and the checks you should make as a driver. These are listed below showing appropriate answers that you should give.
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 dipstick/oil-level indicator; describe check of oil level against the min/max markers.
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.
Identify high/low level markings on the header tank where fitted or radiator filler-cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
Identify where the windscreen-washer reservoir is, and tell me how you would check the windscreen-washer level.
Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.
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.
Identify reservoir check level against high/low markings.
Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car.
Operate brake pedal; make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc. or ask someone to help.
Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack.
Brakes should be tested as you set off.
The vehicle should not pull to one side.
Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off-road only).
The check is carried out by using the control (turn on ignition if necessary).
Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre-pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Manufacturer's guide
Check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold.
Use a reliable pressure gauge.
Don't forget spare tyre.
Remember to re-fit valve caps.
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.
No cuts and/or bulges; 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Show me/explain how you would check that the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
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.
Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail-lights are working.
Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary) and walk round vehicle.
Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
Apply the indicators - (turn on ignition if necessary) - or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.
Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.
Demonstrate by applying the parking brake so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.
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 that 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.
Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
Operate control to wash and wipe the windscreen.
Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens.
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 demo)
Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system.
Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.
Show me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car.
Operate switch (with ignition on if necessary) and check with main beam warning light.
Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them.
Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light and explain use.
