Show me, Tell me

The 'Show Me Tell Me' questions require you to explain to your driving test examiner where and how to check tyres, brakes, fluid levels, lights, direction indicators and horn.

You will be asked two questions, one 'show me' and one 'tell me' question. One or both questions answered incorrectly will result in one driving fault being recorded.


B01 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.

Suggested answer - Identify dipstick, remove dipstick, clean, and replace.  Remove again and check level against the minimum/maximum markers.  Refill using filler cap, refer to owner’s manual for oil type.  Tell me question so no need to actually perform check.


B02 Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

Suggested answer - If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey 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. 


B03 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.

Suggested answer - Identify high/low level markings (Corsa has no high level marking) on header tank.  Level should be checked when cold and with the vehicle in a level position.  Refill with water/antifreeze mix, refer to owners manual.


B04 Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear, make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle.

Suggested answer - Apply footbrake 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.


B05 Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

Suggested answer - Identify reservoir and refill as necessary.  Use washer/water mix dependant on weather.


B06 Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).

Suggested answer - Ensure that no one is too close to car and it is on private property and sound the horn.  Note - ignition needs to be on for IR controls to function.


B07 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.

Suggested answer - Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.  In Citroen ensure visible level again high markings.


B08 Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

Suggested answer - Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators [all six]. (need to switch ignition on if using indicator switch or IR controls [private property only], do not start the engine)


B09 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).

Suggested answer - Switch ignition on [do not start the engine] and operate brake pedal, ask the examiner to check the operation of all three break lights.  Make use of reflections if available.  Variation (private property only); turn the ignition on and leave the drivers seat, ask the examiner to firmly press the brake pedal, check function of lights.


B10 Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

Suggested answer - Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.  Tell me question so no need to actually perform check.


B11 Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. (No need to exit vehicle).

Suggested answer - Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle. (As this is a "Tell Me" question, there is no need to physically check the lights.)


B12 Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

Suggested answer - Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.


B13 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.

Suggested answer - No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.


B14 Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.

Suggested answer - Ensure no one close to vehicle that might get wet.  Switch ignition on [do not start engine].  Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen.


B15 Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens.

Suggested answer - 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.


B16 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).

Suggested answer - Turn on ignition [do not start engine] and dipped headlights, operate switch for fog lights. Check warning light is on. Explain use (visibility less than 100m).


B17 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.

Suggested answer - Turn on ignition [do not start engine] and dipped headlights, operate switch for main beam. Check warning light is on. Explain use (do not dazzle etc).


B18 Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.

Suggested answer - 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.


B19 Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system.

Suggested answer - Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.


 

Below are the 'Show Me Tell Me' combinations often asked by the driving test examiner

  • Questions 8 and 10
  • Questions 5 and 9
  • Questions 2 and 12
  • Questions 4 and 5
  • Questions 1 and 12
  • Questions 3 and 18
  • Questions 7 and 13
  • Questions 6 and 13
  • Questions 10 and 14
  • Questions 11 and 15
  • Questions 16 and 19
  • Questions 9 and 11
  • Questions 17 and 19