Show Me – Tell Me

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.

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

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 engine cooling system header tank, and describe how to top up to correct level.

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

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

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 level against high/low markings.

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

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.

Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.

Check there are no cuts and bulges and 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.

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 how you would check that the head lights and tail lights are working. (No need to exit vehicle).

Operate light switch (turn on ignition if necessary). As this is a tell me question there is no need to physically check the lights.

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

Explain you’d operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help etc.

Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your antilock braking system.

A warning light on the dash board should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.

Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when to use it / them.

Operate switch (turn on dipped head lights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain when you would use fog lights.

Tell me how you would switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on when inside the car.

Operate Switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.

Tell me/explain how you would check that the power-assisted 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.

Tell me how you would check that your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.

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 may not be adjustable.