Complete DVSA “Tell Me” Questions & Answers
1. How would you check that the brakes are working before starting a journey?
Answer:
I would test the brakes as I move off. They should feel firm, not spongy or loose, and the vehicle should stop smoothly without pulling to either side.
2. Where would you find the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how should they be checked?
Answer:
The correct tyre pressures can be found in the vehicle handbook or manufacturer’s information. Tyres should be checked when cold using an accurate pressure gauge, and the valve caps should be replaced afterwards.
3. How do you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted?
Answer:
The head restraint should be adjusted so that the rigid part is level with the top of the ears or eyes and positioned as close to the back of the head as is comfortable.
4. How would you check the tyres have enough tread depth and no defects?
Answer:
I would inspect the tyres for any cuts, bulges, or damage and make sure the tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre around its entire circumference.
5. How would you check that the headlights and tail lights are working?
Answer:
I would switch the lights on and then walk around the vehicle to make sure all the headlights and tail lights are operating correctly.
6. How would you know if there was a problem with the anti-lock braking system (ABS)?
Answer:
If there is a fault with the ABS, the warning light on the dashboard will remain illuminated.
7. How would you check that the direction indicators are working?
Answer:
I would activate the indicators or hazard warning lights and then walk around the vehicle to check that all the indicators are flashing correctly.
8. How would you check that the brake lights are working?
Answer:
I would press the brake pedal and either ask someone to check the lights or use reflections in windows, mirrors, or other surfaces to confirm they are working.
9. How would you check that the power-assisted steering is working before a journey?
Answer:
If the steering feels unusually heavy, the system may not be functioning properly. While starting the engine, gentle pressure on the steering wheel should result in a slight movement as the power assistance engages.
10. How would you switch on the rear fog lights and when should they be used?
Answer:
I would use the appropriate control to switch them on. Rear fog lights should only be used when visibility is seriously reduced, typically to less than 100 metres.
11. How would you switch from dipped beam to main beam and know it is on?
Answer:
I would operate the headlight control to select main beam. A blue warning light on the dashboard will indicate that the main beam is active.
12. How would you check that the engine has enough oil?
Answer:
I would open the bonnet, locate the dipstick, remove and wipe it clean, reinsert it, then remove it again to check that the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks.
13. How would you check that the engine has sufficient coolant?
Answer:
I would open the bonnet and locate the coolant reservoir, then check that the coolant level is between the minimum and maximum markings.
14. How would you check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid?
Answer:
I would open the bonnet, locate the brake fluid reservoir, and ensure the fluid level is between the minimum and maximum marks.
Complete DVSA “Show Me” Questions & Answers
1. How would you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
Use the rear windscreen washer and wiper control. Turn on the ignition if needed.
2. How would you wash and clean the front windscreen?
Use the windscreen washer and wiper control to clean the front windscreen. Turn on the ignition if necessary.
3. How would you switch on your dipped headlights?
Use the lighting control to switch on the dipped headlights. The ignition may need to be on.
4. How would you set the rear demister?
Press the rear demister button or use the appropriate control. The ignition may need to be switched on.
5. How would you operate the horn?
Press the centre of the steering wheel or the horn control while maintaining safe control of the vehicle.
6. How would you demist the front windscreen?
Adjust the heater, fan speed, temperature, and airflow controls to direct air onto the windscreen until it clears.
7. How would you open and close the side window?
Use the electric window switch or manual window handle to open and close the window safely.
8. How would you switch on the rear fog lights?
Use the rear fog light switch. Headlights or ignition may need to be on first.
9. How would you switch from dipped beam to main beam?
Use the headlight stalk or control to select main beam. A blue warning light on the dashboard will confirm it is on.
10. How would you set the front demister?
Use the heating controls to direct warm air onto the windscreen and adjust the fan speed as needed.
11. How would you check that the handbrake is secure?
Apply the handbrake firmly and ensure the vehicle remains stationary without rolling.
12. How would you operate the hazard warning lights?
Press the hazard warning light button to make all indicators flash together.
13. How would you check the parking brake for excessive wear?
Apply the parking brake and check that it holds the vehicle securely without excessive movement of the lever or pedal.
Quick Memory Tip:
- Wash/Clean → Operate the washer and wiper controls.
- Lights → Use the lighting controls.
- Demisters → Use heater, fan, and airflow controls.
- Horn → Press the horn control.
- Windows → Use window controls.
- Handbrake/Parking Brake → Ensure the vehicle stays secure.
- Hazards → Press the hazard warning button.