You’ll be asked a ‘show me’ and a ‘tell me’ question. One or both questions answered incorrectly will result in one driving fault being recorded before you have started the Driving Test proper.
Typical Show Me Tell Me combination questions are:
Q1. “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.”
Your response: Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe how you would check the oil level against the minimum / maximum markers.
Q2. “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 coolant level.”
Your response: Identify high / low level markings on header tank (where fitted) or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
Q3. “Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.”
Your response: Identify reservoir and check level.
Q4. “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.”
Your response: Identify reservoir, check level against high / low markings.
Q5. “Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car.”
Your response: Operate brake pedal, make use of any reflections in windows, garage doors etc, or ask someone to help.
Q6. “Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.”
Your response: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you move off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
Q7. “Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.”
Your response: Tyre pressures are in the manufacturer’s manual. Use a reliable pressure gauge, check tyre pressures when cold, (once a week) don’t forget the spare tyre – and remember to refit dust caps.
Q8. “Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and their general condition is safe to use on the road.”
Your response: No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire circumference.
Q9. “Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.”
Your response: If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, two checks can be made. With the wheel turned slightly, and maintained while the engine is started, you notice a slight movement in the wheel as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an instant indication the power steering is functioning ok.
Q10. “Show me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.”
Your response: Turn on ignition (if necessary), and operate switch for lights. Walk round the vehicle.
Q11. “Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.”
Your response: Apply indicators or hazard warning lights and check all indicators.
Q12. “Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).”
Your response: Turn on ignition (if necessary) Operate horn.
Q13. “Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.”
Your response: Demonstrate by applying the handbrake and when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.
Get practicing on these questions with your instructor at least two weeks before your driving test – and print these questions so that you can also practice in your own time!
