Show Me Tell Me Question

What are Show Me, Tell Me questions?

These are questions an examiner will ask you at the start of your driving test. Having signed the declaration of insurance you will then walk towards your car and be asked to read a car number plate at 20.5 metres. You will then proceed to your own car and before entering it the examiner will ask you two questions about your car. Here is a list of the examiner's questions that can be asked:

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

Q. 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.Identify high/low level markings on header tank (where fitted) or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

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

Answer.Identify reservoir and explain how to check level. Check your car's manual to see how to do this.

Q. 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.Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings. Description of brake fluid reservoir including photograph.

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

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

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

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

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

Answer.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. Research latest recommendations for tyre condition.

Q. 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.No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. Latest tyre legislation and a fuller explanation of the terms used

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

Answer.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.

Q. Show me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.

Answer.Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.

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

Answer.Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and walking around the vehicle to check functioning of all indicators.

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

Answer.Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).

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

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

Q. Shown me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.

Answer. Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen. (You may need to switch the ignition on, but you should not start the engine.)

Q. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively. This should include both front and rear screens.

Answer.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 demonstration.Operate switch; turn on dipped headlights (and ignition, if necessary, but without starting the engine). Check warning lights is on. Explain when to use for lights.

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

Answer.The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as hight as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. NB: Some restraints might not be adjustable.

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

Answer.Warning light should be illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.

Theory Test Software and Theory and Hazard Perception Test Software.

Drive DVD
Drive is the ultimate driving lesson DVD for general driver training and those who wish to pass the driving test!

Brake Website
Brake - The road saftey charity.

RoSPA
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents website.

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Arrive Alive - Lots of advice to keep yourself and others safe on the road.

Drugs & Driving
A page about the dangers of driving and taking drugs

Road Safety
An organisation dedicated to driving safety for young drivers.