The 'show me tell me' questions require you to explain to the driving test examiner where and how to check the tyres, brakes, fluid levels, lights, direction indicators, power steering and horn. You will be asked two questions, one 'show me' and one 'tell me' question. If you forget an answer when asked, don't worry. If you get one or even both Show Me Tell Me questions incorrect, you will only receive one minor. The DVSA Show Me Tell Me questions are designed for you to have a good general knowledge of basic car maintenance. Below is a print version of the Show Me Tell Me questions and answers.
Q1: 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.
Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum / maximum markers.
Q2: 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.
Identify high / low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to fill up to the correct level when the engine is cold.
Q3: 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 reservoir, check level against high / low markings.
Q4: Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
Open the bonnet and identify reservoir and explain how to check level.
Q5: Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressure for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Manufacturers guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don't forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.
Q6: 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.
Check that there are no cuts and bulges and there is at least 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Q7: Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
Brakes should not feel spongy or slake. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
Operate light switch (turn on ignition if necessary). As this is now a 'Tell me' question, there is no need to physically check the lights.
Q9: Tell me how you would 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 head restraints might not be adjustable.
Q10: Tell me how you know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system.
Warning light on the dashboard should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.
Q11: Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, 2 simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.
Q12: 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.
Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors etc, or ask someone to help. As this is now a show me question, the examiner may check the brake lights for you. You may need to switch the ignition on, however you should not start the engine.
Q13: Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators. You may need to switch the ignition on, however you should not start the engine.
Check is carried out by using control. You may need to switch the engine on, however don't start the car.
Q15: Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear: Make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle.
Apply foot brake firmly. Demonstrate by applying parking brake (Handbrake) so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.
Q16: Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen. You may need to switch ignition on, however you should not start the engine.
Q17: Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear 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.
Q18: 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. Please don't start the engine).
Operate switch turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary) Check warning light is on. Explain when you would use fog lights.
Q19: Show me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car.