Show Me & Tell Me

Show Me

1. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
The control for this is on the right hand stalk. To use it, push it towards the dashboard and hold it to wash the rear windscreen. The rear wiper turns on automatically. Let go to stop the washer.

2. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
The control for this is on the same stalk as the rear windscreen washer. This time you’ll have to pull it towards the steering wheel to squirt the windscreen washer. Only use it when it’s safe as it might be hard to see out of the windscreen for a second. The wipers activate automatically in some cars and turn themselves off.

3. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d switch on your dipped headlights?
The switch for the dipped headlights is shown in the image. Turn the switch once to the left for the dipped headlights. The symbol on the dashboard shows they’re on. Don’t forget to turn them off after. Try not to look at the control when driving.

4. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d set the rear demister?
Switch on the rear demister button to activate the rear demister.

5. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d operate the horn?
Operate the horn by using the control.

6. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d demist the front windscreen?
Set all relevant controls including: fan speed, temperature, air direction/source, and heated screen to clear the front windscreen.

7. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d open and close the side window?
Operate the switch to open and close the side window.

1. Tell me how you’d check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. The vehicle should not pull to one side.

2. Tell me where you’d find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold. Don’t forget the spare tyre and remember to refit valve caps.

3. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part is at least as high as the eyes or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. Note: Some restraints might not be adjustable.

4. Tell me how you’d check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
No cuts and bulges. Tread depth should be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

5. Tell me how you’d check that the headlights and tail lights are working. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.
Operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round the vehicle to check lights are working.

6. Tell me how you’d know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.
The ABS warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the system.

7. Tell me how you’d check the direction indicators are working. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.
Operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round the vehicle to check they are working.

8. Tell me how you’d check the brake lights are working on this car.
Operate the brake pedal and make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help check the lights.

9. Tell me how you’d check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. Two checks: apply gentle pressure on the steering wheel while starting the engine — it should move slightly. Or turn the wheel just after moving off to check if power assistance is working.

10. Tell me how you’d switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you’d use it/them. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.
Operate the switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check the warning light is on. Fog lights are used when visibility is less than 100 metres.

11. Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you’d know the main beam is on.
Operate the switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), and check for the main beam warning light on the dashboard.

12. Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has sufficient oil.
Identify the dipstick or oil level indicator, remove it, clean it, reinsert it, and check the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.

13. Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.
Identify the high and low level markings on the coolant tank (or radiator cap if applicable) and ensure the level is between them. Top up if needed when the engine is cold.

14. Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
Identify the brake fluid reservoir and check that the level is between the high and low markings.