Show me, tell me questions

For the practical driving test you are required to answer two questions concerning the operation and maintenance of your vehicle, one explanatory and the other demonstrative.

This is known as "show me, tell me". The examiner will ask the questions after the eyesight test and before the driving part of the practical driving test.

Below are the questions you may be asked (along with correct answers) for you to familiarise yourself.

Show me questions:

Show me/explain how you would check that the power 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. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.

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 where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the min/max markers.

Demonstrate by applying parking brake without the button pressed in. Do so slowly, whilst counting how many clicks it takes until the brake is secure. If the parking brake comes up more than five clicks it is at the end of its working travel and needs adjustment.

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

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 the level against high/low markings.

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

Check is carried out by using the control.

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

Apply the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.

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

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), and walk around vehicle.

Tell me questions:

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

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

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.

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

Check the manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold. Don’t forget spare tyre, and remember to refit valve caps.

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.

Check there are no cuts, tears, rips or bulges, and that there is at least 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.