'Tell Me' - (INSIDE THE CAR)

 

Q: Tell me how you’d check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

A: Brakes should be tested as you set off. They should not feel spongy or slack and the vehicle should not pull to one side.

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Q: Tell me where you’d find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

A: Tyre pressures will be found in the manufacturer’s guide. Use a reliable pressure gauge to check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold. The spare tyre should also be checked and remember to refit valve caps.

 

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

A: 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.

 

Q: Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working (no need to exit vehicle).

A: Explain that you would turn on the ignition (if necessary) and operate the dipped headlights. To check they are working you would walk round vehicle. (As this is a ‘tell me’ question, there’s no need to physically check the lights).

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

A: Explain that a warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.

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Q: Tell me how you’d check the direction indicators are working. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.

A: Explain that you would operate the hazard warning switch and then walk around the vehicle to check them. (As this is a 'tell me' question you do not need to physically check the lights).

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Q: Tell me how you’d check the brake lights are working on this car.

A: Explain that you would operate the brake pedal and make use of reflections behind you to check, or ask someone to check them.

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Q: Tell me how you’d check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

A: Explain that when the engine is turned off the steering is heavy and difficult to move.. Once the engine is running there should be a noticeable difference and the steering should feel much lighter.

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Q: Tell me how you’d switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you’d use it/them. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.

A: Explain you would turn on dipped headlights and operate fog light switch. Check the orange warning light is on for rear light. Explain that you would only use them when visibility is reduced in fog to around 100m, and they must be turned off when visibility improves.

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Q: Tell me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you’d know the main beam is on.

A: Explain you would operate the switch (with ignition on) and apply the main beam. Identify the illuminated blue light on the dashboard to confirm main beam is selected.