Show & Tell

What is Show and Tell?

The Practical Driving Test includes an element where the pupil is expected to answer 2 questions based on general maintenance of a car. The questions are straight forward and are designed to ensure that pupils have some very basic knowledge of checks and maintenance of a car before passing a test. Your instructor should go over these questions with you.

Failure to answer one or both questions correctly results in only one minor fault on the test report sheet.

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What are the Show and Tell Questions?

There are now 18 possible questions and the examiner will ask the test candidate to answer 2 of these. The possible questions are listed below with the expected answers shown in red:

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.

Answer: Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of 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.

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

3. Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer 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.

5. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car, examiner can assist.

Answer: Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help (turn on the ignition, do not start the engine).

6. Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

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

7. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

Answer: 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.

8. 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.

Answer: 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.

9. Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

Answer: 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.

10. Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.

Answer: Apply footbrake firmly. Demonstrate by applying parking brake so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.

11. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).

12. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

Answer: Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.

13. Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working (No need to exit vehicle).

The following questions have been added as of 1 July 2008 

14. Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers

Answer: Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary, do not start engine).

15. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens

Answer: Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. Do not start the engine.

16. 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)

Answer: Operate switch (turn on ignition and dipped headlights, do not start engine). Check warning light is on. Explain use.

17. 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

Answer: Operate switch (turn on ignition and dipped headlights), check with main beam warning light.

18. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system

Answer: Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system

How do I find out more?

Visit the DSA website at http://www.dsa.gov.uk for more information or call us on 07766 76 32 66 or e-mail us at lessons@minidrivers.com for advice or information.

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Call/Text: 07766 76 32 66

E-mail: lessons@minidrivers.com