Show Me - Tell Me Questions

Explain that after starting the engine press the brake pedal several times to ensure it does not feel spongy or slack. When applying the brakes on the move the vehicle should slow down and stop as normal, and not pull to either side. 

Explain that pressures can be found in either the manufacturer's handbook or an information plate located somewhere on the vehicle body of some cars. Pressures should be checked using a reliable pressure gauge when the tyres are cold (as air expands when hot), especially before starting a long journey, or extra weight is to be carried. Ensure the spare tyre is checked too, and all valve caps are replaced once checked. 

Explain that the head restraint should be adjusted so that the rigid part (centre) of the head restraint is at least level with the eyes or top of the ears, and as close as possible to the back of the head whilst still being comfortable so that it offers maximum support in the event of a crash. NOTE: Restraints on some vehicles might not be adjustable. 

Explain that you should regularly inspect the tyres ensuring that there are no cuts, bulges or other obvious damage. Then explain that there should be 1.6mm of tread depth across the centre three-quarters of the breadth of (across) the tyre and around the entire outer circumference (all the way around) of the tyre. 

Explain that you would need to turn on the ignition first, and then turn on the headlight switch. Depending on the vehicle this will normally be located on one of the stalks, or a switch on the dashboard. There will normally be three positions on the switch (off, side lights, and dipped beam) There will be a green icon shown on the instrument panel. You would then explain that you would walk around the car before a journey to ensure both headlights, and both red tail lights are working. 

Explain that if there was a fault with the system the ABS warning light on the dashboard would either stay on or flash after the engine has started. 

Explain you would turn on ignition; apply each direction indicator individually; walk around the vehicle to ensure that they are all (six!) are working. Alternatively turn on the hazard warning lights and walk around the vehicle to check bulbs are working correctly. As this is a tell me question there is no need to exit the vehicle. 

Turn on ignition, but do not start the engine. Press brake pedal and ask someone to go behind the vehicle and check that all of the lights are working. Alternatively you could explain if you are by yourself then you could reverse up to a reflective surface like a window or garage door and see the reflection of the lights. There is no need to exit the vehicle, as this is a tell me question. 

Explain you would apply gentle pressure to the wheel with one hand whilst starting the engine with the other hand. Once the engine starts there should be a noticeable movement of the wheel as the system begins to operate. If the steering becomes noticeably heavy whilst driving there may be a fault with the system. 

Explain you would turn on ignition and switch headlights to dipped beam setting, then operate the fog light switch and identify the warning light on the dashboard. Explain that fog light should only be used when visibility is reduced to less than 100 metres. 

Switch ignition on if necessary, and turn lights switch to normal headlights (dipped beam), and then turn on main beam switch, which depending on vehicle is normally done by pulling or pushing the indicator stalk. 

Open the bonnet, there will on most cars be a release lever you will need to pull from within the cockpit first, and then there will be a secondary catch under the bonnet to fully release before you can open it. Then point out the engine oil dipstick. Then explain that you would check the oil on a regular basis, particularly before starting a long journey. You should check the oil when the engine is cold and the car is parked on a flat level ground. Check it by pulling out the dipstick and wiping clean, then re-dipping and checking the level against the minimum and maximum markers on the stick. Once explained ensure bonnet is FULLY closed. 

Open the bonnet, there will on most cars be a release lever you will need to pull from within the cockpit first, and then there will be a secondary catch under the bonnet to fully release before you can open it. Then identify the reservoir and point out the high and low level markings on the header tank. Explain that if topping up is required then this should be done when the engine is cold to avoid burning your hand when removing the cap. Once explained ensure bonnet is FULLY closed. 

Open the bonnet, there will on most cars be a release lever you will need to pull from within the cockpit first, and then there will be a secondary catch under the bonnet to fully release before you can open it. Then identify the brake fluid reservoir. Point out the minimum and maximum markings and explain that the level should be between these. Ensure that the car is parked on a flat level surface before checking. Once explained ensure bonnet is FULLY closed.