Show me Tell me

Show Me, Tell Me are Vehicle Safety Questions Prior to moving off, Driving Test candidates will be asked two questions - one 'show me' and one 'tell me'. One or both questions answered incorrectly will result in only one driving fault being recorded.

• Q Identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
  A Identify the yellow dipstick and describe how to check oil level against the max/min markings
• Q Identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you'd check the engine has the correct level.
  A Identify the high/low markings on the header tank and describe how to top up to correct level.
• Q Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
  A Identify reservoir. Visual check is needed, look for the fluid in the container.
• Q Identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you'd check that you have a safe level of fluid
  A Identify the reservoir, check level against max/min markings


• Q Show me how you would check the brake lights are working on this car.
  A Switch on ignition and operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors etc, or ask someone to help.
• Q Tell me how you would check the brakes are working before starting a journey.
  A Drive a few metres and gently apply brakes. They should not feel spongy or soft and not pull to one side.
• Q Tell me where you would find the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how the pressures should be checked.
  A In the handbook, or just inside the passenger door. Use a reliable pressure gauge and check the when tyres are cold.
• Q Tell me how you'd check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and they are safe to use on the road.
  A There should be 1.6mm of tread around full circumference and across central 3/4. No cuts or bulges in the sidewall.
• Q Show me or explain how you would check the power steering is working before starting a journey.
  A With engine running steering wheel should move freely and not feel heavy or stiff. As you move off you could soon tell.
• Q Tell me how you would check the headlights and tail lights are working.
  A Turn on ignition, switch on lights and walk around vehicle.
• Q Show me how you would check the direction indicators are working.
  A Switch on hazard warning lights (no need for ingnition) and walk around the vehicle to check.
• Q Show me how you would check the horn is working.
  A Press the centre of steering wheel to sound the horn.
• Q Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.
  A Demonstrate by applying the handbrake, when it's applied it secures itself and it's not at the end of the working travel. (is not all slack and loose)
• Q Tell me how you would make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted to provide protection in the event of a crash.
  A Head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part is at least as high as the eye or the top of the ears. Do your hand ear trick!


• Q Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
  A Press the end of right hand column stalk to wash and wipe the windscreen.
• Q Show me how to set the demister controls to clear all windows, this should include both front and rear screens.
  A Turn the large dial to the windscreen setting, turn on fan, increase heat and press heated rear window button.
• Q Show me how you would switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you would use them.
  A Turn on headlights and ignition. Press button positioned to right of light switch. Check warning light is on. Explain use.(Visibility greater than 100m = off).