tell me questions

Question 1

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

Answer 1

-brakes should not feel spongy or slack
-brakes should be tested as you set off
-vehicle should not pull to one side

Question 2

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

Answer 2

-manufacturer’s guide
-use a reliable pressure gauge
-check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold
-check spare tyre
-remember to refit valve caps

Question 3

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

Answer 3

-head restraint should be adjusted so the firm part is aligned with your ears and eyes
-as close to the back of the head as is comfortable

Question 3

Tell me how you’d check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road

Answer 3

-no cuts and bulges
-1.6mm of tread depth across 75% of the tyre
-use a tread measuring gauge to do so

Question 3

Tell me how you’d check that the headlights and tail lights are working. You don’t need to exit the vehicle

Answer 3

-you’d operate the switch
-then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights)

Question 4

Tell me how you’d know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.

Answer 4

-warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system

Question 5

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

Answer 5

-you’d operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary)
-then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights)

Question 6

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

Answer 6

-you’d operate the brake pedal
-make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help

Question 7

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

Answer 7

-once engine has started you should notice that you can pull the wheel easily
-if it feels heavy then the system may not be working

Question 8

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

Answer 8

-operate switch and turn on headlights first
-check warning light is on
-use when visibility has dropped below 100m

Question 9

Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you’d know the main beam is on

Answer 9

-operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary)
-check that the main beam warning light is on