Tell Me questions UPDATED

How would you 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

• 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre

• and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.

How would you check the headlights and tail lights are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

• Turn on ignition

• Operate switch

• Walk around the vehicle

How would you know if there is a problem with the anti-lock braking system?

• Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault

• yellow OR orange

How would you check the direction indicators are working? (you don't need to exit the vehicle)

• Turn on ignition if necessary

• Operate the switch

• Then walk around the vehicle

How would you check the brake lights are working on this car.

• Operate the brake pedal

• Make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help.

How would you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you'd know the main beam is on?

• Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary)

• Check with main beam warning light.

How would you check 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, 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.

_____

Turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication.

____

How would you switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you'd use it/them. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

Turn on ignition and dipped headlights if necessary.

Operate switch.

Check warning light is on (explain use).

Rear fog lights and their dashboard warning lights alert drivers behind you to your vehicle’s presence during severe low visibility, prevent rear-end collisions, and remind you they are active.

Rear fog lights must only be used when visibility is seriously reduced - generally below 100 metres and must be switched off immediately once visibility improves. Using them in clear conditions, light rain, or normal spray is illegal because the intense red glare can dazzle drivers behind you and hide your brake lights.

Open the bonnet and TELL ME how you'd check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Identify dipstick/oil level, and check of oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.

To check your engine oil, open the bonnet, locate the dipstick (usually with a bright yellow or orange handle), pull it out and wipe it clean, put it back in, and pull it out again to see where the oil mark sits between the minimum and maximum markers.

_____________

Open the bonnet and TELL ME how you'd check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.

- Identify high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap

How to top up engine coolant to the correct level:

Park on level ground, ensure the engine is fully cold, and locate the translucent plastic expansion tank. Slowly unscrew the cap to release any pressure, pour in the correct 50/50 coolant mixture using a funnel until the fluid reaches the maximum line, and tightly close the cap.

Open the bonnet and TELL ME how you'd check that you have a safe level of hydraulic bake fluid.

• Identify resevoir

• Check level against high and low markings

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 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.

________

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

• in 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'd 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.