SHOW ME TELL ME
When itcomes around to your Practical Driving Test, part of that test involves a section called Show Me Tell Me.
Gold Medal Driving School will provide you with a list of the questions with the answers for you to study prior to the test.
Show Me, Tell Me consists of 19 questions about basic car maintenance, They are grouped together in pairs. One show me and one tell me.
You will be asked one pair of these questions at the beginning of your Practical Test.
If you answer one or both wrong the Examiner will record one driver fault on your test report, this could be very important at the end of your test as you are only allowed fifteen of these faults, any more will result in a fail.
Here are the 19 questions complete with answers,
Q1. 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.
A1. Identify the dipstick and describe how you would check the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers. (This involves removing the dipstick and wiping it with some rag. Then replace the dipstick and remove again to get an accurate reading.)
Q2. Show Me or explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
A2. If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made. Apply gentle pressure on the steering wheel while starting the engine. when the engine starts a slight but noticable movement of the wheel will occur as the system begins to operate.Alternatively turning the wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the the sytem is functioning normally.
Q3. 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.
A3. Identify the header tank, showing the maximum and minimum markings. State that the level should be between these marks.
Q4. Show me how you would check the parking brake (Handbrake) for excessive wear.
A4. Apply the footbrake firmly. Demonstrate by applying the parking brake (Handbrake) so that when it is fully applied it secures itself and is not at the end of its working travel.
Q5. Open the bonnet, identify the windscreen washer reservoir and tell me how you would check windscreen washer level.
A5. Identify the reservoir and explain how you would check the level. (Some reservoirs are hidden) so just say you would top it up weekly or before a long journey.
Q6.Show me how you would check that the horn is working. (Off road only).
A6. This check is carried out by using the horn. (Turn on ignition if necessary).
Q7. 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.
A7. Identify the reservoir and explain how you check the levels using the minimum and maximum markings on the side.
Q8. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
A8. Switch on the hazard warning lights and walk around the car to check all six lights are working.
Q9. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. ( I can assist you).
A9. Operate the brake pedal and make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or get someone to help.(Do not start the engine)
Q10. Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
A10. Brakes should not feel slack or spongy. They should be tested as you set off. when braking the vehicle should not pull to one side.
Q11. Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.
A11. Operate the light switch (turning on the ignition if necessary) then walk around the vehicle to check all the lights are working.
Q12. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
A12. Manufacturer's guide, use a reliable pressure guage, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don't forget the spare tyre and refit the valve caps when finnished.
Q13. Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
A13. There should be a minimum of 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference, without any cuts or bulges.
Q14. Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
A14. Operate control to wash and wipe the windscreen.(Turn on ignition if necessary)
Q15. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens.
A15. Set all relevant controls including fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows.
Q16. Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use them.
A16. Operate the switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain that they should be on when visibility is less than 100 metres.
Q17. Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on from inside the car.
A17. Operate switch (with ignition on if necessary) Check with main beam warning light.
Q18. Tell me how you make sure your head restaint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
A18. 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.
Q19. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system.
A19. Warning light should illuminate on the dashboard if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.If you have any questions about the above questions ask your instructor who will be happy to explain.