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The Intensive Driving School London and Essex

Learning to drive starts with a CLICK©

SHOW ME

The Show Me Tell Me test is much easier than you might think

Show Me Tell Me

You'll do this before your drive. You'll answer two basic car maintenance questions

Examiners wear distinctive fluorescent yellow jackets and should take any steps necessary to keep you safe during this test

Ready?

• "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"
• Open the bonnet identify dipstick /oil level indicator, describe oil level check against the minimum/maximum markers
• "Open the bonnet, identify the windscreen washer reservoir and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level" Open the bonnet, identify reservoir and explain how to check level
• "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" Open the bonnet identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level. Radiators are only opened with a cold engine
• "Open the bonnet, show me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid Open the bonnet, identify brake fluid reservoir and explain how to check level"

• "Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear" Demonstrate by applying parking brake so that when it is fully applied it secures the car and is not at the end of its working travel. Keep your foot on the footbrake
• "Show me how you would check that the horn is working" (off road only) Sound horn by using the appropriate device (turn on ignition if necessary)
• "Show me /explain how would you check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey" If steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. After starting the engine two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. Or, turn the steering wheel as you move off, you will get an immediate indication that the power assistance is working
• "Show me how you would check that the direction indicators / hazard warning lights are working" Apply the indicators / hazard warning switch and check all indicators
• "Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car" Use reflections in windows, garage doors etc, or ask someone to check
• "Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working correctly before starting a journey" Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side when you brake
• "Show me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working" Operate switch (turn on ignition but do not start the engine), walk round your vehicle to demonstrate they are all working
• "Tell me where you would 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 spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps
• "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"
  No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. Remember your spare tyre

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