Vehicle Safety Check Questions

Q1 - Oil Level (Show Me) - 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.

A1 - Identify the dipstick (oil level indicator), describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers. 

 

Q2 - Power Steering (Show Me) - Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

A2 - 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 noticeable movement as the engine starts. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning, as it should be light and easy to turn.

 

Q3 - Engine Coolant (Show Me) - 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.

A3 - Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

 

Q4 - Handbrake/Parking Brake (Show Me) - Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear, make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle.

A4 - Apply footbrake firmly. Demonstrate by applying parking brake (handbrake) so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel. 

 

Q5 - Windscreen Washer fluid (Tell Me) - Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

A5 - Identify reservoir and explain how to check level. 

 

Q6 - Horn (Show Me) - Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).

A6 - Check is carried out by using the horn.

 

Q7 - Brake Fluid (Show Me) - 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.

A7 - Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings. 

 

Q8 - Indicators (Show Me) - Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

A8 - Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators. If you need to use the ignition, do so, but make sure you don't start the engine.

 

Q9 - Brake lights (Show Me) - Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car.

A9 - If you need to use the ignition, do so, but make sure you don't start the engine. Operate brake pedal, ask the driving examiner to check they are working. You can also check this on your own by using reflective surfaces such as windows, or other cars. 

 

Q10 - Brakes (Tell Me) - Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

A10 - Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.  

Q11 Headlights & Tail Lights (Tell Me) - Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. (No need to exit vehicle)

A11 - Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle. (As this is a "Tell Me" question, there is no need to physically check the lights.) 

 

Q12 - Tyre Pressures (Tell Me) - Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

A12 - They would be found in the 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.

 

Q13 - Tyres (Tell Me) - 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.

A13 - No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. 

 

Q14 - Windscreen Washers (Show Me) - Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.

A14 - Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary).

 

Q15 Windscreen Demister (Show Me) - Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens.

A15 - Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration.

 

Q16 Rear Fog Light (Show Me) - Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle, Please don't start the engine.)

A16 - Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary, but don't start the engine). Check warning light is on. Explain that they would be used in conditions where visibility is less than 100 metres (328 feet).  

 

Q17 - Main Beam Headlights (Show Me) - Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car.

A17 - Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.

 

Q18 - Head Restraints (Tell Me) - Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.

A18 - 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. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable. 

 

Q19 Anti-Lock Brakes (Tell Me) - Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system.

A19 - Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.