Tell Me Questions

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

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. They should be tested as you set off, and the vehicle should not pull to one side.

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

Refer to the manufacturer's guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, and don't forget the spare tyre. Refit 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 the rigid part is at least as high as the eyes or top of the ears and as close to the back of the head as comfortable. Note: Some restraints may not be adjustable

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

Tyres should have no cuts or bulges. The tread depth should be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire circumference.

Tell me how you'd check that the headlights and tail lights are working.

Turn on the ignition and activate the light switch to the dipped-beam setting. Walk around the vehicle to confirm both front white headlights and rear red tail lights are illuminated.

Tell me how you'd know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system (ABS).

An ‘ABS’ warning light should illuminate and remain on the dashboard if there's a fault.

Tell me how you'd check the direction indicators are working.

Turn on the hazard lights (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).

Tell me how you'd check the brake lights are working on this car.

Operate the brake pedal, either use reflections in the windows or doors, or ask someone to help.

Tell me how you'd check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

Turn the ignition on and then turn the steering wheel, it should move with ease. Can also turn the steering wheel just after moving off to give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.

If the system becomes heavy the steering may not be working properly.

Tell me how you'd switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you'd use them.

Turn the ignition on, then turn on the dipped headlights and then the fog lights. Check warning light is on. Only use them when visibility is seriously reduced, usually when it is less than 100m.

Tell me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you'd know the main beam is on.

Turn ignition on, then turn on dipped headlights and push the indicator stalk away from you to turn to main beam. Check the main beam warning light is on the dashboard.

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

Identify the dipstick, proceed to take out the dipstick and give it the engine oil a wipe. Insert your dip stick back in and then take it out. Oil on the dipstick should be between the minimum and maximum markers ensuring there is sufficient engine oil.

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

Check the coolant level by looking at the 'high' and 'low' marks on the radiator header tank. If the levels are low top it up with a water and anti-freezer mix, but only when the engine is cold. Could get a serious injury if you open the cap when the engine is hot.

Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that you have a safe level of hydraulic break fluid.

Brake fluid must be between the minimum and maximum markers. If it is low, top it up with the correct type of fluid, this can be found in the car manual.