Know your Show Tell Me questions?
The show me / Tell section of your test lets the examiner know you understand how to perform basic safety checks and maintenance on your car.
This is not just important for passing your test though as this is an important aspect of driving and will keep you, your passengers and other road users safer.
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Show Me Question examples
At an appropriate opportunity, use the REAR windscreen washer
At an appropriate opportunity, operate the FRONT windscreen washer
Use the headlight switch to change the light settings
Set the relevant control
When appropriate, use the horn
Set the heating controls to de-mist the front windscreen
Use the window control to open a window
Tell Me Question examples
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
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.
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. Note: Some restraints might not be adjustable.
Check for cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre, and around the entire outer circumference.
The warning light would become illuminated on the instrument panel if there is a fault
Explain you’d operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), and then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).
Explain you’d operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).
Explain you’d operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help
If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, 2 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.
Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.
Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), and check the main beam warning light which will be blue.
Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum and maximum markers
Identify high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level
Identify reservoir, check level against high and low markings.