Show Me, Tell Me Questions

The brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Test them as you set off, and the car should not pull to one side.

In the manufacturer’s guide. Use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust the pressures when the tyres are cold, don’t forget the spare tyre, and remember to refit the valve caps.

The rigid part of the head restraint should be at least as high as your eyes or the top of your ears, and as close to the back of your head as is comfortable. Some head restraints cannot be adjusted.

Look for cuts and bulges. The tread depth must be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre’s width and all the way around the tyre.

Explain that you would operate the light switch (turning the ignition on if necessary) and then walk round the car to check the lights. (As this is a “tell me” question, you do not need to physically check them.)

The ABS warning light on the dashboard would come on if there is a fault.

Explain that you would operate the indicator switch (turning the ignition on if necessary) and then walk round the car to check the lights. (As this is a “tell me” question, you do not need to physically check them.)

Explain that you would press the brake pedal and check the lights using reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help you.

If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. There are two simple checks. Apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel and keep it there while you start the engine: the wheel should move slightly as the system starts to work. Or turn the steering wheel just after moving off, which will show straight away whether the assistance is working.

Switch on your dipped headlights and the ignition if necessary, then operate the rear fog light switch and check that its warning light is on. Explain that you would only use them when visibility is seriously reduced (generally less than 100 metres) and switch them off when it improves.

Operate the switch (with the ignition or engine on if necessary) and check that the main beam warning light is on.

Find the dipstick or oil level indicator, and explain that you would check the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.

Find the high and low level markings on the header tank (where fitted) or the radiator filler cap, and explain how you would top up to the correct level.

Find the brake fluid reservoir and check the level against the high and low markings.

Use the rear wash and wipe control. In most cars this is a switch or stalk, and pushing or turning it sprays washer fluid and starts the rear wiper. Check it clears the screen, then switch it off.

Pull the wiper stalk towards you (or use the washer control in your car). Washer fluid sprays onto the screen and the wipers sweep it clean. Release it, and switch the wipers off when the screen is clear.

Turn the light switch to the dipped headlight position (the symbol looks like a lamp with lines pointing downwards). Turn the ignition on first if necessary, and check the warning light on the dashboard.

Press the rear demister button (it shows a rectangle with wavy arrows). Turn the ignition on first if necessary, and check that its indicator light comes on.

Press the horn, usually in the centre of the steering wheel, with a short, brief sound. Only use the horn to warn other road users of your presence, and never use it as a sign of annoyance or to tell someone to hurry up.

Switch on the front demister control (it shows a windscreen with wavy arrows), direct the air flow to the windscreen, turn up the fan and set the temperature to warm. If your car has air conditioning, switching it on helps clear the screen faster.

Use the window switch on your door to lower the window and then raise it again. Keep both hands ready to steer, and don’t take your eyes off the road.