"Show Me, Tell Me" Questions and Answers
The ‘show me tell me’ questions were first introduced on UK Driving Tests in September 2003 by the DSA and require you to explain to the driving test examiner where and how to check the tyres, brakes, fluid levels, lights, direction indicators, power steering, horn etc. You will be asked two questions, one ‘show me’ and one ‘tell me’ question.
Question 1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check the engine has the correct level.
Identify the coolant tank and check the min/max markings.
Question 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 the brake fluid reservoir and check the fluid level against the min/max levels.
Question 3. Show me/explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
Before starting a journey, with the engine off, the steering should feel heavy/stiff. Once the engine has been started, the steering should feel light/loose. If the steering still feels heavy once the engine is started, there may be a problem with the power steering.
Question 4. Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
Identify the reservoir and explain that most of the bottle is hidden from view, but the fluid level can be checked by looking into the opening of the bottle.
Question 5. Open the bonnet identify, where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has enough oil.
Identify the dipstick, pull it out, wipe it clean then check the oil level against the min/max markings. This should be done when the car is level.
Question 6. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).
Press the horn and listen (turn on ignition if necessary).
Question 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).
Ask the Examiner to check that the brake lights are working. (They will walk around to the back of the car to check). Press the brake pedal to illuminate the brake lights.
Question 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 slack or spongy and the car should not pull to one side.
Question 9. Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.
Turn on lights to dipped headlights (turn ignition if necessary.)
Question 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.
Question 11. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Information will be found using the car manufacturer’s manual. Check the tyre pressures by using a reliable pressure gauge when the tyres are cold. Don’t forget the spare and remember to refit the valve caps.
Question 12. Tell me how you would check the tyres to show that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
A safe tyre will have no cuts or bulges. The tread depth should be at least 1.6mm across the central 3/4s of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Question 13. Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear. (Make sure you keep proper control over the vehicle)
Apply the footbrake, (this stops the car from rolling away) take off the handbrake. Then as you re-apply the handbrake, it should not have excessive travel and it should secure the car. Ensure that the button is pressed in when re-applying the handbrake.
Question 14. 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.
Question 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).
Question 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.
Question 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.
Question 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 the blue main beam warning light.
Question 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 that you would use them when visibility is less than 100 metres.
