Show me, tell me questions

DVSA ‘tell me’ questions and answers

There are 14 possible ‘tell me’ questions set by the DVSA, outlined below along with their answers. But don’t just memorise them, make sure you actually understand them, as they’re things you should know to help keep yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road safe.

• How would you check that the brakes are working before starting a journey?

A: You’d press the brake pedal gently to make sure it feels firm, ‘not spongy or slack’ according to the DVSA. The car shouldn’t pull to one side when you brake.

• Where would you find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked?

A: You can find the correct pressures in the manufacturer’s guide. Use a reliable pressure gauge to check and adjust the tyres when they’re cold (before you start driving).. Don’t forget to check all four tyres, plus the spare if you have one, and replace the valve caps properly afterwards.

• How would you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash?

A: You should make sure that the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as your eyes or the top of your ears, and as close to the back of your head as possible. Some head restraints aren’t adjustable, but don’t worry, your instructor will tell you if yours is fixed.

• How would you check the tyres to make sure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road?

A: Check for no cuts or bulges. And, make sure the tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, all the way around.

• How would you check that the headlights and tail lights are working?

A: You’d turn on the light switch (ignition might need to be on), then explain you’d walk around the car to check the lights. Or, if you’re parked near another car, check in the rear mirrors and reflection in front.

• How would you know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system?

A: A warning light would come on the dashboard.

• How would you check the direction indicators are working?

A: Turn on the indicators or hazard warning lights (with ignition on if needed), and explain that you’d walk around the vehicle to make sure they’re flashing.

• How would you check the brake lights are working?

A: Press the brake pedal and use reflections in windows or doors to see if they light up. Or, ask someone to help check for you.

• How would you check that the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey?

A: If the steering feels heavy, the system might not be working. To check, you can do one of two things: Apply gentle pressure to the wheel while starting the engine. This should make the steering wheel move slightly as the system activates. Or, turn the steering wheel just after moving off. If it’s working, it should feel light and easy to turn.

• How would you switch on the rear fog lights and when would you use them?

A: Turn on dipped headlights and ignition if needed, then switch on the fog lights. A warning light will show when they’re on. You should use them only when you can’t see 100 metres ahead.

• How would you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and how would you know they’re on?

A: Turn on the ignition (if needed), switch to main beam, and look for the main beam warning light on the dashboard.

For the last three questions, you’ll need to open your car’s bonnet. Don’t worry – you won’t be driving for these. You’ll just need to point to a few parts and explain what they do, that’s why they’re not part of the ‘show me’ question.

• Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has enough oil. (You’ll need to get out of the car for this one)

A: Point out the dipstick or oil level indicator, and explain that you’d check that the oil level is between the minimum and maximum markers.

• Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has enough engine coolant. (You’ll need to get out of the car for this one)

A: Open the bonnet and point out the high and low markings on the side of the coolant tank. Explain that if it was lower than the minimum, you’d top it up until it’s at an appropriate level between the high and low (sometimes ‘min or ‘max’)

• Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid. (You’ll need to get out of the car for this one)

Open the bonnet and point out the reservoir – usually on the right hand side of the engine – and explain that you’d check that the level is between the high and low markings.