Show & Tell Questions
About the show & tell questions
You’ll be asked 2 vehicle safety questions during your car driving test.
The examiner will ask you one:
- ‘tell me’ question (where you explain how you’d carry out a safety task) at the start of your test, before you start driving
- ‘show me’ question (where you show how you’d carry out a safety task) while you’re driving
You’ll get one driving fault (sometimes called a ‘minor’) if you get one or both questions wrong.
Below gives examples of what you will be expected to answer.
A1) Applying the hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators by walking around your vehicle. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine)
A2) Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (you may need to switch ignition on, but do not start engine)
A3) 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.
A4) Operate the window controls to drop and raise the window.
A5) Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.
A6) Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
A7) Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.
A8) Check is carried out by using control usually on steering wheel. (turn on ignition if necessary).
A9) Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen.
A10) 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.
A11) Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use. Visibility less than 100 metres.
A12) Operate switch, check with main beam warning light
A13) Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
A14) Operate the switch to clean the window.
A15) 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.
A16) 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.
A17) 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.
A18) 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.)
A19) A warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti- lock braking system.
