Show and Tell
At the start of your Practical Driving Test, your examiner will ask you two questions about maintaining your vehicle. These are very straight forward, and will either require you to explain simply how a check is carried out, or to demonstrate how you would carry out a check.
Some additional questions are being introduced from 1st July, 2008. These are included below.
The two questions asked will be drawn from a pool of set questions. As the actual questions are subject to Crown Copyright, we cannot reproduce them here, but below you will find a good guide to the questions and some suggested answers.
Full details of the questions can be found on the DSA website as a pdf file.
Under the bonnet
You may be asked to explain any one of four under-bonnet checks, concerning OIL, ENGINE COOLANT, BRAKE FLUID, or WASHER BOTTLE. You must identify the relevant componant under the bonnet, and explain how the check is carried out.
OIL: Identify the dipstick (point at it, but do not touch it as it may be hot and/or dirty). Explain that you would withdraw the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth, and re-insert it. Withdraw it again and check the level of oil is between the MAX and MIN marks.
COOLANT: Identify the coolant reservoir by pointing at it and explain that you would check the level is between the MAX and MIN marks. The reservoir is transparent, and the coolant is coloured.
BRAKE FLUID: Identify the brake fluid reservoir by pointing at it and explain that you would check the level is between the MAX and MIN marks. The reservoir is transparent,although the brake fluid is pale coloured, and harder to see.
WASHER BOTTLE: Identify the washer bottle and explain that you would check there is plenty of water present.
Tyres
There are two Tyres questions.
Regarding the Tyre Pressure, explain that the pressure is specified in the car's handbook and should be checked with an accurate gauge when the tyres are cold. The check is carried out by removing the dust-cap from the valve, and pushing the pressure gauge onto the valve.
The condition of the tyres , and the tread, are checked visually, so explain that you would check the tread around the circumferance of the tyre, and across the whole width, ensuring that the tread is no less than 1.6mm deep. The sidewalls of the tyre should be checked for any damage, such as cuts, bulges or chunks missing. Minor scuffs are acceptable.
Brakes
To test the brakes before setting off, push the peddle down firmly a couple of times. It should feel firm, not slack or spongey.
To check the parking (hand) brake for wear, slowly click it up on the ratchet. It should feel stiff between 5 and 10 clicks. If it comes up further without becoming stiff it is worn.
To check the Brake Lights, have the ignition key in the "ON" position, and push the brake pedal. You can check the lights from within the car if you have a reflective surface behind you (eg a garage door), or get someone to help you
If the ABS (anti-lock braking system) develops a fault, a dashboard warning light would show.
Lights
Explain how you would check the Headlights and Tail Lights, ensure the ignition key is in the "ON" position and turn the lights switch to the HEADLIGHTS position. At the front this is the sidelight and headlight bulbs, and at the back, the red tail lights. The number plate light should also be on.
The examiner would not normally expect you to leave the car and physically check the lights. Just explain what you would do.
To check the direction indicators, turn on the Hazard Lights as this triggers them all. Walk around the car to check they are working.
Dipped/Main headlamps:
Make sure you know where the dip-switch is and how to operate it. There is a 'Main Beam' warning light on the instrument panel. This is usually blue.
The rear fog lights are operated by the fog light switch. Make sure you know where this is. Remember they should only be used when visibility is below 100 metres.
Horn
On most cars, push the middle of the steering wheel to sound the horn. A short firm push is best.
Power Steering
To demonstrate the power steering check, pull the steering wheel down with your left hand. As you pull the wheel, start the engine. As the engine starts you will feel the steering instantly become much lighter. The power steering is therefore working.
Head Restraints
The head restraints should be adjusted so that the solid part of the restraint is level with your eyes and as near to your head as possible.
Windows
You may be asked to clean the windscreen using the wash/wipe function. Make sure you know how to do this.
You may be asked to show your examiner how you would set the de-misters to clear the windows of mist.
This will involve setting the ventilation controls to the 'de-mist' setting and operating the rear-screen de-mister. Make sure you know how to do this.