Show Me / Tell Me Questions
The brief “Show Me / Tell Me” section of the practical driving test is designed to assess your knowledge of basic vehicle maintenance and safety.
Before you start driving, the examiner will ask you two questions from the list below. One will be a “show me” style question, which will require you to identify a feature of the car and/or demonstrate its use, while the other will be a more straightforward “tell me” request.
There are thirteen different questions in total, which can be asked in 12 possible combinations.
The questions fit into four broad categories:
- Under The Bonnet
- Inside the Car
- Lights
- Tyres
Failure to answer either of the questions correctly will result in a driving fault, so it's well worth memorizing the correct responses!
UNDER THE BONNET
1) 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
Point out the dipstick / oil level indicator and describe how you would check the oil level against the minimum / maximum markers.
2) 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
Point to the high / low markings on the header tank (where fitted) or the radiator filler tank and describe how you would top it up to the correct level. (Radiators are only opened with a cold engine).
3) Open the bonnet, identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level?
Point to the reservoir and explain how to check the level.
4) 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
Identify the reservoir and describe how to check the level against the high/low markings.
INSIDE THE CAR
6) Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working
Turn on the indicators or hazard warning switch and check all the indicators.
7) Show me how you would check that the horn is working. (This should take place off road only. The question will only be asked where the test centre has a car park)
Sound the horn by applying the appropriate device. Turn on the ignition if necessary.
8) Show me how you would check the handbrake for excessive wear
Apply the parking brake fully so that it secures the car and is not at the end of its working travel. Keep your foot on the footbrake throughout.
9) Show me how you would check the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey
A steering problem is indicated by the steering becoming heavy. There are two possible checks that can be carried out. One option is to apply gentle pressure on the steering wheel and maintain it while the engine is started. This should result in a slight movement as the system kicks in the operation. Instant confirmation can also be achieved by turning the steering wheel immediately after setting off.
11) Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey
The brakes should be tested as you set off. Generally, they should not feel spongy or slack and the car should not pull to one side when you apply them.
LIGHTS
5) Show me how you would check that the headlights and taillights are working
Operate the switch (turning on the ignition if necessary, although you should not start the engine) and walk around the car to confirm that all the relevant lights are working.
10) Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working
Apply pressure to the brake pedal and look for reflections in windows / garage doors etc or ask someone to check for you.
TYRES
12) Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth that their general condition is safe to use on the road
The tyres should be closely observed to check that they contain no cuts or bulges. There should be 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the tyre and the whole outer circumference. Mention the need to carry a spare tyre.
13) Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressure for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked
Recommended tyre pressure can be found in the manufacturer’s guide / handbook. A reliable pressure gauge should be used to check and adjust the tyres when they are cold. A spare tyre should be carried at all times, and you should remember to re-fit the valve caps.