Show Me, Tell Me - U-Turn Driving School

Show Me Tell Me

Since 1st September 2003 there has been an additional part added to the driving test which involves you being asked to describe and also show your examiner how you would carry out a number of safety checks on your vehicle. You will need to answer two questions regarding the maintenance and operation of the vehicle. The format is simple, one question involves you having to DEMONSTRATE, and the other requires you to EXPLAIN. Below is the list of possible questions you could be asked. Important key words are highlighted.

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.

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

2. 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.

3. 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 header tank, and describe how to top up to correct level.

4. Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.

Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.

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

Identify reservoir and explain how it is tested by operating the windscreen washer.

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

Check is carried out by using the horn control.

7. 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.

8. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

Applying the hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicator bulbs.

9. Tell 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.

10. 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. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

11. Show me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working.

Operate switch, turn on ignition, walk round vehicle.

12. 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, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don't forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.

13. 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 bulges on the sidewall of the tyre, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

14. 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 at least at eye level.

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

Turn on the ignition. Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen by pulling the wiper switch towards you in most cars.

16. 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 and rear demister to clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration.

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

Yellow ABS Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.

18. Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car.

Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with blue main beam warning light. (This is operated by pulling the indicator switch.)

19. Show me how you would switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you would use it. (No need to exit vehicle).

Turn on dipped headlights, ignition and then operate the switch (twist forward twice). Check yellow warning light is on. Explain use.