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Show Me Tell Me

Anyone taking their driving test must show the examiner that they can carry out routine maintenance checks. The 'show me, tell me' questions require test candidates to explain to the examiner how to check the tyres, brakes, fluid levels, lights, direction indicators and horn.

All candidates will be asked two questions, one 'show me' and one 'tell me' question. The questions are asked in set combinations - see the actual questions below for details.

It is important to listen to the examiner, if the examiner asks "show me" then you must physically show him or her, if they ask "tell me" then you simply tell them. A typical "tell me" would be to explain how you would check the oil level, the examiner does not expect you to get your hands dirty before your test drive!

One or both questions answered incorrectly will result in one driving fault being recorded. Give yourself a flying start on your test and get the ‘show me, tell me' questions spot on! Learning what's required isn't hard and you can give your confidence a boost by being well prepared.

All the questions and answers are listed below, drivR learners approaching test standard will be given a handout with full details and will have the chance for plenty of practice on the actual car.

ALL OF THE QUESTIONS THE EXAMINER CAN ASK YOU COMPLETE WITH THE ANSWERS!

Q1: Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and TELL ME how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Answer: Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

Q2: Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and TELL ME how you would check that the engine has the correct level.

Answer: Identify high/low level markings on the header tank or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

Q3: Open the bonnet, Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and TELL ME how you would check the windscreen washer level.

Answer: Identify the reservoir filler and explain how to check level.

Q4: Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and TELL ME how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

Answer: Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

Q5: TELL ME how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car.

Answer: Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors etc, or ask someone to help.

Q6: TELL ME how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

Answer: Press the pedal, brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

Q7: TELL ME where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

Answer: Look in the manufacturers' handbook, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don't forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.

Q8: 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.

Answer: No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

Q9: SHOW ME/explain how you would check that the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

Answer: 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.

Q10: SHOW ME how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.

Answer: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), & walk round vehicle inspecting the lights.

Q11: SHOW ME how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

Answer: Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and walking around the vehicle to check functioning of all indicators.

Q12: SHOW ME how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).

Answer: Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).

Q13: SHOW ME how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.

Answer: Demonstrate by applying parking brake (handbrake) that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel, garages usually set the parking brake fully applied at 3 clicks on the ratchet when it is lifted without depressing the button.

The Examiner will ask you your two questions using the following combinations:

Combination 1

- Questions 1 and 9

Combination 2

- Questions 2 and 13

Combination 3

- Questions 3 and 12

Combination 4

- Questions 4 and 11

Combination 5

- Questions 5 and 13

Combination 6

- Questions 6 and 10

Combination 7

- Questions 7 and 11

Combination 8

- Questions 8 and 10

Combination 9

- Questions 8 and 12

Combination 10

- Questions 4 and 9

Combination 11

- Questions 1 and 10

Combination 12

- Questions 2 and 10

All ‘Show me, tell me' information is © Crown Copyright 2003 Driving Standards Agency