 1-2-Learn
LEARNER DRIVERS –
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.
The purpose of this is to ensure that every new driver has
a basic level of knowledge regarding vehicle safety and maintenance.
It is important that you are well prepared
for this as currently failing to answer one or both of the
questions correctly will result in one driving fault.
Show
Me
Q Show me /
explain how you would check that the power assisted steering
is working before starting a journey.
A 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 the parking brake for excessive wear.
A 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 Show me how
you would check that the horn is working (off road only).
A Check is carried
out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).
Q Show me how
you would check that the direction indicators are working.
A Applying the
indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning
of all indicators.
Q Show me how
you would check that the brake lights are working on this
car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition
on, please don't start the engine)
A Operate brake
pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc,
or ask someone to help. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt
not to start engine)
Q Show me how
you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer
and wipers
A Operate control
to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary)
Q Show me how
you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows
effectively, this should include both front and rear screens
A 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
Q Show me how
you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when
you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle)
A Operate switch
(turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check
warning light is on. Explain use.
Q 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
A Operate switch
(with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main
beam warning light
Tell
Me
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.
A Identify dipstick
/ oil level indicator, describe check the 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.
A 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 washer level.
A Identify reservoir
and visually check level.
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.
A Identify reservoir,
check level against high/low markings
Q Tell me how
you would check that the brakes are working before starting
a journey.
A 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.
A 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.
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
A The head restraint should be
adjusted so 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. N.B. Some restraints might
not be adjustable
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.
A No cuts and
bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of
the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference
Q Tell me how
you would check that the headlights & tail lights are
working. (No need to exit vehicle)
A Operate switch
(turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle.
(As this is a “Tell Me" question, there is no need
to physically check the lights.)
Q Tell me how
you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock
braking system
A Warning light
should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking
system
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