Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Operate the indicator switch and walk around the vehicle (or use reflections in windows/garage doors) to check all indicators flash. You may need to switch on the ignition first.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Operate the footbrake and ask someone to check the rear, or use a reflective surface. Alternatively, reverse towards a wall and check the red glow in your mirrors.

Question 3

Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.

Accepted Answer

Apply the parking brake — it should secure the vehicle with the lever not at the top of its travel. If it rises too high before holding, it may need adjustment.

Question 4

Show me how you would check that the horn is working.

Accepted Answer

Press the horn button (with the ignition on if required). The horn should sound clearly. This is best done away from residential areas.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Switch on the headlights and walk around the vehicle to check both headlights and tail lights are illuminated. You may need to switch on the ignition first.

Question 6

Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.

Accepted Answer

Switch on the ignition and operate the washer/wiper stalk. Ensure the washer fluid reservoir is topped up and the wipers clear the screen without smearing.

Question 7

Show me how you would set the rear demister.

Accepted Answer

Switch on the ignition and press the heated rear window button (usually marked with a symbol of a rear window with wavy lines). Check the warning light illuminates to confirm it is on.

Question 8

Show me how you would switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on.

Accepted Answer

With the headlights on, push the indicator/light stalk forward (or pull towards you, depending on the car). The blue main beam warning light on the dashboard will illuminate to confirm main beam is active.

Question 9

Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use them.

Accepted Answer

Switch on the headlights first, then press the rear fog light button. The amber warning light on the dashboard confirms it is on. Use rear fog lights when visibility drops below 100 metres.

Question 10

Show me how you would open and close the side window.

Accepted Answer

Operate the electric window switch (or wind the manual handle) to lower and raise the window fully. Ensure the window seals correctly when closed.

Question 11

Show me how you would demist the front windscreen.

Accepted Answer

Turn on the blower, select the windscreen demist setting, and switch on the air conditioning if available (it dehumidifies the air). Increase the temperature to warm air. The heated front windscreen button can also be used if fitted.

Question 12

Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

Accepted Answer

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Test them as you set off — the vehicle should not pull to one side. Check the brake fluid level is between the MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir under the bonnet.

Question 13

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

Accepted Answer

Tyre pressures are found in the vehicle handbook or on a sticker inside the fuel filler cap or driver's door jamb. Check pressures when the tyres are cold using a reliable pressure gauge. Don't forget the spare tyre.

Question 14

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.

Accepted Answer

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around the entire circumference. Use a tread depth gauge or the tread wear indicators moulded into the tyre grooves. Also check for cuts, bulges, or objects embedded in the tread.

Question 15

Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

Accepted Answer

Switch on the ignition and headlights. Check the instrument panel warning lights confirm the lights are on. You can also use reflections in a garage door or window, or ask someone to confirm the lights are working.

Question 16

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

Accepted Answer

The ABS warning light on the dashboard will illuminate and stay on after the engine has started. If it lights up while driving, it indicates a fault. Have it checked by a qualified mechanic.

Question 17

Tell me how you would check the direction indicators are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

Accepted Answer

Switch on the ignition and operate the indicator stalk. Check the indicator warning light on the dashboard flashes at the correct rate. You can also check reflections in windows or ask someone outside to confirm.

Question 18

Tell me how you would check the engine has sufficient oil.

Accepted Answer

The oil level is checked using the dipstick under the bonnet. The engine should be cold and the car on level ground. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert fully, then withdraw it again. The oil level should be between the MIN and MAX marks.

Question 19

Tell me how you would check the engine coolant is at the correct level.

Accepted Answer

Check the coolant level in the translucent expansion tank under the bonnet when the engine is cold. The level should be between the MIN and MAX marks. If low, top up with the correct coolant mixture. Never open the cap when the engine is hot.

Question 20

Tell me how you would check the brake fluid level.

Accepted Answer

Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the bonnet (usually near the back of the engine bay on the driver's side). The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the translucent reservoir. If low, top up with the correct specification fluid.

Question 21

Tell me how you would check the power steering is working before starting a journey.

Accepted Answer

Gently push against the steering wheel before moving off — there should be little resistance. As you drive away slowly, turn the wheel slightly — it should feel light and responsive. A stiff or heavy wheel may indicate a power steering fault.

Question 22

Tell me how you would check the windscreen washer fluid level.

Accepted Answer

Locate the windscreen washer fluid reservoir under the bonnet (usually marked with a windscreen/water symbol). Check the fluid level visually or via the dipstick attached to the cap. Top up with screenwash solution mixed to the correct concentration for the season.

Question 23

Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use them. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

Accepted Answer

Switch on the headlights, then press the rear fog light button. The amber warning light on the dashboard confirms it is active. Use rear fog lights when visibility is seriously reduced — generally when you cannot see further than 100 metres.

Question 24

Tell me how you would check the horn is working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

Accepted Answer

Switch on the ignition and press the horn button firmly. The horn should sound clearly and immediately. This is best tested away from residential areas to avoid causing a nuisance.

Question 25

Tell me how you would check the lights are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

Accepted Answer

Switch on the ignition and operate each set of lights in turn — sidelights, headlights, hazard lights, indicators. Check the relevant warning lights on the dashboard illuminate. You can also use reflections in windows or a wall to confirm the lights are working.

Question 26

Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure they are safe to use on the road.

Accepted Answer

Check the tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre around the full circumference. Inspect the sidewalls and tread for cuts, bulges, or embedded objects. Check tyre pressures when cold using a reliable gauge and inflate to the manufacturer's recommended levels.

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