Above is a diagram of the engine compartment layout of the car you will be using for your driving lessons and your driving test. download a copy here.
- 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.
Ans: Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe how you would check the oil level against the minimum / maximum markers. - 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.
Ans. Identify high / low level markings on header tank (where fitted) or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level. - Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how
you would check the windscreen washer level.
Ans: Identify reservoir and check level. - 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.
Ans: Identify reservoir, check level against high / low markings. - SHOW me how you would check that the brake lights are working on
this car.
Ans: Operate brake pedal, make use of any reflections in windows, garage doors etc, or ask someone to help. NB: there are no reflection surfaces at the test centre. So you will need to ask the examiner to check the lights are working. - Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before
starting a journey.
Ans: Brakes shoud not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you move off. Vehicle should not pull to one side. - Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended
tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Ans: Tyre pressures are in manufacturers manual, use a reliable pressure gauge (pronounced 'gage'), check tyre pressures when cold,(Once a week) don't forget spare and remember to refit the dust caps. - Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have
sufficient tread depth and their general condition is safe to use on the road.
Ans: No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire circumference. - Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted
steering is working before starting a journey.
Ans: If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two checks can be made. With the wheel turned slightly, maintained while the engine is started, you notice a slight movement in the wheel as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an instant indication the power steering is functioning ok - TELL me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights
are working.
Ans: Explain: Turn on ignition (if necessary), operate switch for lights, walk round the vehicle. - Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are
working.
Ans: Apply indicators or hazard warning lights and check all indicators. - Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).
Ans: Turn on ignition (if necessary). Operate horn. - Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.
Ans: Demonstrate by applying the handbrake and when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel. - Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides
the best protection in the event of a crash.
Ans: 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. - Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
Ans: Operate windscreen washer (turn on ignition if necessary). - Show me how you would check the demister controls to clear all windows
effectively, this should include both front and rear.
Ans: Set all relevant controls including: FAN, Temperature, air direction/source, and heated screen (both front and rear if fitted). Engine does not have to be started. - Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when
you would use it/them. (no need to exit the vehicle).
Ans: Operate the switch (turn on dipped headlights if necessary). Check warning light is on and explain the use of the rear fog lights. - Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your Anti-Lock braking system.
Ans: The warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti‑lock braking system. - Show me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain
how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car.
Ans: Operate the switch (with ignition of engine on as necessary) and check the main beam warning light.