At the start of the test, you'll be asked two of the following questions
"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 (Photo 1).
"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 (Photo 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" 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 (Photo 1).
"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 (Photo 1)
"Show
me how you would clean the windscreen using the washers and wipers"
Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (Photo 2). Pull the stalk towards you for water squirt.
"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 (Photo 3)
"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 switch from dipped headlight to main beam. Explain how you
would know the main beam is on whilst inside you car" Operate switch (turn
on ignition if necessary) check for the main beam warning light (Photo 4). The cars lights first need to be on, then pull the indicator stalk towards you. A blue symbol will pop up on the dasj board, the only symbol that is blue.
"Show
me how you would check that the horn is working" (off road only)
Sound horn by using the appropriate device.
"Show
me /explain how you would 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 set the demister controls to clear both front and rear
windscreens effectively Set relevant controls which include: fan,
temperature, air direction and source, plus heated screen controls (Photo 5 ). The dials need to all be twisted to these postions. (Do
not start engine).
"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.
"Tell
me how you would make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted to provide
the best protection in the event of a crash" The head restraint should
be adjusted so that the rigid part of the restraint is at least as high as the
eyes or top of the ears. The restraint should be as close to the back of the
head as is comfortably possible.
"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.
"Show
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 (turn
on ignition).
"Show
me how you would switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you would use
them" (stay in the car)(turn on ignition
if necessary and select dipped beam) Check fog warning light is on.
Explain use. Operate switch by turning to the right to get the normal lighs on. The pull the light switch out, towards you. (Photo 6).
"Tell
me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working"
(stay in car and turn on ignition if necessary) Explain: Operate switch
and then walk around vehicle. (You do not need to leave the car to check
the lights).
"Tell
me how you would know if there was a problem with the anti lock braking
system" The warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with
the anti lock braking system on the dashboard. The symbol says "ABS".