Show Me Tell Me Questions
The Show Me, Tell Me Section of the Practical test expects the pupil to either show or explain Simple maintenance checks/tasks regarding the engine. This section of the test is included in the total allotted time for the Practical test which is 40 minutes.
Before the examiner takes you out, he will ask you one Tell Me question such as “Tell me how you would check the brake lights are working on this car”. This is followed by a Show Me question such as “Show Me how you would check the horn is working”. You will not fail the whole Practical Test if you answer these questions incorrectly, however you will incur one driving fault for EACH incorrect answer you provide.
Open the Bonnet and identify:
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Where you check the engine oil level and tell me how would you check that the engine has sufficient oil and how do you top up?
Identify the dipstick, describe check of oil level against minimum/maximum markers, and if level is below the minimum mark identify the filler cap to top up.
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Where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level.
Identify the minimum/maximum level markings on the header tank and describe how to top up to the correct level.
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Where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
Identify the reservoir and explain how to check the level.
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Where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
Identify the reservoir and check the level against the minimum/maximum markings
Tell me how you would check that the:
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Brake lights are working on this car
With the ignition on, operate the brake pedal, and make use of reflections in windows, garage doors etc., or ask someone to help.
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Brakes are working before starting a journey
Brakes should be tested before you move off, the vehicle should not pull to one side. The brakes should not feel spongy or slack.
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Tyres have sufficient tread depth and that there general condition is safe to use on the road.
Tyres should not have any cuts or bulges, minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central ¾ and all around. The tyre pressure for this car is 32 P.S.I. for the front and 32 P.S.I. for the rear (when cold). This information can be found in the handbook and a reliable gauge should be used.
(please note that the PSI will differ depending on the vehicle being used)
Turning the steering wheel, just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning. Explain that normally steering will feel light and easy to turn, when the steering feels heavy and sluggish you are aware there is a problem.
Show me how you would check the:
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Headlights and tail lights are working
With ignition on, operate the switch and walk around the vehicle.
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Direction indicators are working
Use the hazard warning light button and walk around the vehicle.
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Horn is working (off road only)
Press at the point indicated on the steering wheel
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Handbrake for excessive wear
Apply handbrake and ensure it secures the car and is not at the end of the working travel. (Apply the foot brake whilst applying the handbrake)