Show Me / Tell Me

Show Me / Tell Me

Driving confidence through expert guidance.

Show Me Questions

Rear Windscreen Washer

When it is safe, demonstrate how to wash and clean the rear windscreen.

o Use the right-hand stalk: push it towards the dashboard and hold it.
o The rear wiper will operate automatically while the washer is on.
o Release the stalk to stop the washer.

Front Windscreen Washer

When it is safe, demonstrate how to wash and clean the front windscreen.
o Use the same stalk as the rear washer: pull it towards the steering wheel.
o Some vehicles automatically activate the wipers; they usually stop once the screen is clean.
o Only use when it is safe, as visibility may be briefly reduced.

Dipped Headlights

When it is safe, demonstrate how to switch on the dipped headlights.
o Turn the headlight switch (as shown in the vehicle) once to the left.
o The dashboard indicator will show they are on.
o Remember to switch them off after use. Avoid looking at the control while driving.

Rear Demister

When it is safe, demonstrate how to operate the rear demister.
o Press the rear demister button to activate it.

Horn

When it is safe, demonstrate how to operate the horn.
o Press the horn control located on the steering wheel.

Front Windscreen Demisting

When it is safe, demonstrate how to demist the front windscreen.
o Adjust all relevant controls: fan speed, temperature, air direction/source, and heated screen (if fitted) to clear the windscreen.

Side Windows

When it is safe, demonstrate how to open and close the side windows.
o Use the window switches to operate the windows.

Tell Me Questions

Checking Brakes

Explain how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
o Brakes should feel firm, not spongy or slack.
o Test them as you begin to move; the vehicle should not pull to one side.

Tyre Pressure

Explain where to find the recommended tyre pressures and how to check them.
o Refer to the vehicle manufacturer’s guide.
o Use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust tyres when cold.
o Don’t forget the spare tyre, and ensure valve caps are refitted.

Dipped Headlights

When it is safe, demonstrate how to switch on the dipped headlights.
o Turn the headlight switch (as shown in the vehicle) once to the left.
o The dashboard indicator will show they are on.
o Remember to switch them off after use. Avoid looking at the control while driving.

Head Restraints

Explain how to ensure the head restraint is correctly adjusted.
o The rigid part should be at least as high as your eyes or the top of your ears.
o It should be as close to the back of your head as is comfortable.
o Some head restraints may not be adjustable.

Tyre Condition & Tread Depth

Explain how to check tyres are safe and have sufficient tread.
o No cuts or bulges.
o Minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around the entire circumference.

Headlights and Tail Lights

Explain how to check that headlights and tail lights are working.
o Operate the light switch (turn on ignition if required).
o Walk around the vehicle to check. (You don’t need to physically check for this test.)

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

Explain how you would know if there is a problem with ABS.
o The ABS warning light will illuminate if a fault is present.

Direction Indicators

Explain how to check that the indicators are working.
o Operate the indicator switch (turn on ignition if necessary).
o Walk around the vehicle to check functioning.

Brake Lights

Explain how to check that the brake lights are working.
o Press the brake pedal and check reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help.

Power-Assisted Steering

Explain how to check power steering before a journey.
o If the steering feels heavy, the system may not be working correctly.
o With gentle pressure on the wheel, start the engine – you should feel slight movement.
o Alternatively, turning the wheel just after moving off should indicate that assistance is working.

Rear Fog Lights

Explain how to switch on the rear fog lights and when to use them.
o Turn on dipped headlights and operate the fog light switch.
o Check that the warning light illuminates.
o Use fog lights when visibility is 100 metres or less.

Main Beam Headlights

Explain how to switch from dipped to main beam and how to check they are on.
o Operate the headlight switch (ignition or engine on if needed).
o Main beam warning light will illuminate on the dashboard.

Engine Oil

Open the bonnet and explain how to check engine oil.
o Locate the dipstick, remove, wipe, reinsert, and check level against minimum and maximum marks.

Engine Coolant

Open the bonnet and explain how to check engine coolant.
o Identify high and low markings on the header tank or radiator.
o Top up to correct level if needed.

Brake Fluid

Open the bonnet and explain how to check hydraulic brake fluid.
o Locate the reservoir and check level against high and low markings.