Show Me Tell Me Q & A

Everything You need to Pass Your Test

1stime Pass Automatic Driving School

Helping You to Pass Your Test

Professional automatic driving lessons in Plumstead Se18, Charlton Se7 and Blackheath Se3

Show Me Tell Me.

During your practical test your Examiner will begin with the 'Show me, Tell me" questions to test your knowledge on car maintenance and safety. You will be asked 2 questions, one Show Me and one Tell Me question. If you answer any of these 2 questions incorrectly you will gain one driving test fault. In total there are 19 different questions that can be asked in 18 different combinations. All of the questions are listed below.

To see videos covering all the questions please click
All the questions and answers from the .gov website

Below is a list of the questions the examiner may ask you to carry out “When it is safe to do so” whilst you are driving the car.

When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d switch on your dipped headlights?
When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d set the rear demister?
When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d operate the horn?
When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d demist the front windscreen?
When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d open and close the side window?

1. 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.

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

2. 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.

Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

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

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.

4. 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.

Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe checking of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

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

Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.

6. Show me how you would tell the horn is working properly (off road only).

Press the horn and listen (turn on ignition if necessary).

7. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don't start the engine).

Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine)

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

As you move off check the brakes. They should not feel spongy and the car should not pull to one side.

9. Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.

Turn on lights (turn ignition if necessary), walk around car and check that the lights are on.

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

Activate the indicators or hazard warning lights and walk around the car to see if all the indicators are working correctly.

11. 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.

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

Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.

13. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.

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. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable.

14. 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 and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

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

Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary).

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

Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration.

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

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

18. 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.

Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light

19. 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).

Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.

If you wish to learn to drive in SE3,SE2, SE7, Belvedere or Thamesmeade SE28 or surrounding areas please call us on 07958700324
1stime Pass are your friendly driving tuition school!