Practical Driving

• Tell me how you would check that the breaks are working before starting a journey

  Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set of. The vehicle should not pull to one side.
• Tell me where you'd find the information for the recommended tyre pressure for this car and how tyre pressure should be checked

  Manufacturer's guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, checks and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don't forget spare tyre and remember to refit valve caps
• 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 restraints 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.
• 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

  No cuts or buldges, 1.6 mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre, and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.
• Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle

  I would turn on the ignition and walk around the vehicle to check.
• Tell me how you'd 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
• Tell me how you would check the direction indicators are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

  I would turn on the ignition, then the indicators and walk around the vehicle to check
• Tell me how you would check the brake lights are working on this car

  I would either ask someone to watch, or use the reflection in windows or doors and operate the brake pedal.
• Tell me how you'd check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey

  Turning the steering wheel just after moving off with give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.
• Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you would use the. You do not need to exit the vehicle.

  Once the car is on, operate the switch for dipped headlights. Check the warning light is on. You should use your fog lights when visibility is reduced to 100m or less.
• Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on.

  Once the car in on, operate the switch and check the main beam warning light is on.
• Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

  Identify the dipstick/oil level indicator. Using tissue, wipe the dipstick clean and then dip it back in and assess where the oil is in between the minimum and maximum markers. This should be done on flat ground and when the engine is cool.
• Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.

  Identify high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap. Using a funnel to prevent spillages, pour the liquid in. You want to avoid getting any coolant on the skin or floor as this can be poisonous to humans and animals. Once you see the liquid reach the maximum line, screw the cap back on until you hear it click.
• Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

  Identify reservoir check the level against high and low markings.