driving test must know

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

The brakes should not feel spongy or slack. They should be tested as you set off. The 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.

Recommended pressures will be in the manufacturer’s guide. Use a reliable pressure gauge to check and adjust pressures when the tyres are cold. Don’t forget the spare tyre. Remember to refit the valve caps after checking.

Tell me how you make sure 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 that the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as highas 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

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

No cuts and bulges, 1.6 mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumferen

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

Explanation: Operate the switch (turn on the ignition if necessary), then walk around the vehicle.(As this is a ‘Tell Me’ question, there is no need to physically check the lights).

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

The ABS warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with this system

Tell me how you would check that the direction indicators are working. (No need to exit the vehicle.)

Explanation: Operate the switch (turn on the ignition if necessary), then walk around the vehicle.

(As this is a ‘Tell Me’ question, there is no need to physically check the lights.)

Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

Identify the reservoir, check the level against high/low markingS

Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.

Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe

how to top up to the correct level.

Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Identify the dipstick/oil level indicator. Remove the dipstick, wipe with a clean cloth, replace it

then remove it again and check the oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

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

Operate the switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary) check that the main beam warning light is lit

Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog-light(s) and explain when you would use it/them (no need to exit the vehicle).

Operate the switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check that the warning Light is on. Explain the use.

Tell me 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 the brake lights are working on this car.

Explanation: Operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc., or

ask someone to help.