Car Test Questions: Tell me - Show me.

In my experience if you read other websites or driving manuals far too much emphasis is placed on this section of the practical test. They pair up two various questions and give lengthy over- complicated answers. This results in pupils worrying unnecessarily about a section of the test which if answered incorrectly will only result in 1 driving fault. This part of the test takes place following the eyesight check.

You will be asked 2 questions - usually 1 under bonnet and another either tell me or show me. In reality, especially in bad weather, you will be asked to jump in the car and asked your questions in the dry. Quite often one is usually how to test the horn. Simple really. The examiners are not looking for lengthy explanations - you are not garage mechanics. Just so long as you know that you dont put the engine oil in the windscreen washer reservoir!

You will notice that I haven't listed the questions in full - just the bullet points. As soon as the examiner asks the question you will understand what he wants to know. Similarly with the answers. Just use the answer I have given, maybe putting it in your own words just so that it doesn't sound as if you are quoting from a manual. Simple is best.

The answers given are for the new style Ford Fiesta. Other cars may vary on the 'show me' section.

Tell me:

Legal tyres:  1.6mm minimum tread across 3/4 width of tyre and all around the circumference. There should be no cuts or bulges on the side walls.

Tyre pressures:  Use airline at garage. Adjust according to handbook. Remember to check the spare wheel in the boot!

Check head and tail lights:  Turn on ignition and headlights. Walk around car and check.

Check brakes:  As the car moves gently forward apply footbrake. The car should stop immediately without pulling to one side. The pedal should feel firm. If not get checked immediately.

Anti-lock brake problem:  A warning light illuminates on the dash panel if there is a problem with the system.

Check power steering:  Engine off - wheel feels stiff.  Engine running - wheel feels loose.

Head restraint:  Adjust height so that the centre of the restraint is level with eyes / top of ears.

Show me:

Check brake lights:  Turn on ignition. Press down on footbrake. Ask someone to check behind or look for a reflection. 

Check indicators:  Push on hazard warning button on dashboard. Walk around car and check. If a bulb is fused the lights and clicker will go twice as fast. (You do not need to turn on the ignition for hazard lights).

Dipped/Main beam headlights:  Turn on ignition. Turn on headlights - 2 clicks to right. Pull indicator stalk towards you. If the lights are on main beam a blue light is illuminated on the dash. If the lights are in dipped mode there is no light.

Rear fog lights:  Turn on ignition. Turn on headlights - 2 clicks to right. Press in fog light switch to the right of headlight switch. A warning light will illuminate on the dashboard.  Only use rear fog lights in poor visibility of 100 metres or less. It is an offence to drive with them on in good conditions.

Check handbrake:  Apply footbrake. Release handbrake and pull up lever without holding in button. Count the clicks. If more than usual get checked and adjusted.

Clean windscreen:  Turn on ignition. Push and hold in button on right stalk. Wipers will sweep 3 times to clear screen. To clean rear window pull and hold stalk towards you.

Demister controls:  Windscreen - set to demist and set fan to 1,2,or 3. Point out that heat may be required. Rear Window - press demist button.

Test horn:  Press boss on steering wheel. Just a toot will do!

Under bonnet checks:

Engine coolant:  Check level is between min and max and top up if low.

Power steering fluid:  Ditto. (Does not apply to current car)

Brake clutch fluid:  Ditto.

Windscreen washers:  Check filler pot and top up before journey.

Engine oil:  Remove dipstick and wipe clean. Replace and then remove again to check oil level between marks. If low remove filler cap on top of engine and top up with fresh oil. Recheck level on dipstick. Ideally this should be done on level ground when the engine is cold.

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