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.

A: Identify dipstick, pull it out, wipe it , replace it and then check level against maximum and minimum markers (Should be up to maximum and not below minimum on all level checks).

Q2: 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.

A: Identify high/low level markings on header tank and explain how to top up when cold.

Q3: Identify reservoir and check level against max./ min.markings

A: Identify high/low level markings on header tank and explain how to top up when cold.

Q4: Open the bonnet, identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and explain how to check the level.

A: Identify reservoir and explain how to check level ( ie by topping up regularly if not visible).

Q5: Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures and how to check them.

A: Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge (found in petrol stations), check and adjust when tyres are cold, refit valve caps (black plastic things) and don’t forget the spare tyre.

Q6: 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.

A: Check that there are no cuts or bulges and that there is at least 1.6mm of tread on the middle 3/4 of the width of the tyre and all the way round the tyre.

Q7: Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

A: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack (ie it gets harder to brake as you press down). Brakes should be tested as you set off and vehicle should not pull to one side.

Q8: Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.

A: Operate light switch (turn on ignition if necessary), and explain that you would have to walk around the vehicle to check the bulbs.

Q9: Tell me how you would make sure that your head restraint is correctly adjusted so that it provides the best protection in the event of an accident.

A: Rigid part of headrest should be as high as top of ears so that back of head hits the cushion and not above or below.

Q10: Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system.

A: Warning light on dashboard should illuminate if there is a fault with the ABS.

Q11: Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before the start of a journey.

A:If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. ( Two simple checks can be made. Either put gentle pressure on the steering, start the engine, and you will feel a distinct movement when the system begin to operate. ) Or after moving off the steering will become a lot lighter and easier if the system is functioning properly.

Q12: Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working. I can assist you. Switch on the ignition if necessary but please don’t start the engine.

A: Ask the examiner to stand behind the vehicle. Switch on ignition and press brake pedal. You could of course back up to a reflective surface but this is unlikely in the test centre.

Q13: Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

A: Switch on hazard lights and walk round the car to make sure that all lights are working back and front. No need to start engine.

Q14: Show me how you would check that the horn is working.

A: Press Horn on the steering wheel.

Q15: Show me how you would check the parking (hand) brake for excessive wear, make sure that you keep safe control of the vehicle.

A:Press footbrake. Release handbrake. Pull up handbrake and release footbrake. Now explain that the car is secure and holds without the footbrake and that the handbrake does not travel up too far.

Q16: Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.

A: Switch on ignition. Bring wiper stalk (right hand side) towards you and front windscreen will be watered and wiped. (If back window is required, twist end of wiper stalk forward).

Q17: Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear windows.

A: Set the controls. Temperature to warm, direction to windscreen, fan to 4 to blow clear then reduce to 1, press back demister. (AC(air conditioning) is good to clear all windows.)

Q18: Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light and explain when you would use it.

A: Switch on dipped headlights and then the fog light. Point out that the warning light is on. Fog light should be used in foggy conditions when you cannot see clearly 100 metres in front.

Q19: Show me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know that the main beam is on whilst inside car.

A: Switch on to main beam and point out that the blue warning icon is on in the dashboard.