Show Me Tell Me Questions
Unlocking the Secrets of Your UK Driving Test: 'Show Me' & 'Tell Me' Questions!
Hey future drivers!Ready to ace your practical driving test? Let’s dive into those all-important 'show me' and 'tell me' questions that could make your ride!
Tell Me: You’ll face this one before you hit the road! Basically, it’s all about your knowledge—like explaining how to check your oil level or testing your brakes. Don't sweat it! Answering wrong won’t fail your test; it’ll just add to the minor driving faults.
Show Me: Now, while you’re driving, your examiner will ask you to demonstrate something practical, like turning on your headlights.Just be extra cautious here—losing control of the car while you perform this could lead to serious faults or dangerous fault!
Remember: Preparation is key! Brush up on these questions, here is link for show me tell me questions: https://youtu.be/ZVwgsZLlLMU?si=wa7hmFIMqZUp21cj
Tell Me’ Questions (before driving, you explain)
Q1. Tell me how you’d check the brakes are working before starting a journey.
A1. Brakes shouldn’t feel spongy or slack. You should test them as you set off. The vehicle shouldn’t pull to one side.
Q2. Tell me where you’d find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car, and how tyre pressures should be checked.
A2. You’ll find the information in the manufacturer’s guide. Use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust the pressures when the tyres are cold, don’t forget to check the spare tyre, and remember to replace the valve caps
Q3. Tell me how you’d make sure your head restraint is properly adjusted to provide the best protection in the event of a collision.
A3. The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part is 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. Note: Some head restraints may not be adjustable.
Q4. Tell me how you’d check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and are safe to use on the road.
A4. Check there are no cuts or bulges. The tread depth should be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, around the entire circumference.
Q5. Tell me how you’d check the headlights and tail lights are working. You don’t need to leave the vehicle.
A5. Explain you’d turn on the lights using the switch (with the ignition on if needed), then walk around the vehicle to check. As this is a ‘tell me’ question, there’s no need to physically get out of the car.
Q6. Tell me how you’d know if there was a problem with the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
A6. A warning light would illuminate on the dashboard if there’s a fault with the ABS.
Q7. Tell me how you’d check the direction indicators are working. You don’t need to leave the vehicle.
A7. Turn on the indicators or hazard warning lights (with the ignition on if needed), then walk around the vehicle to check. Again, no need to actually get out of the car.
Q8. Tell me how you’d check the brake lights are working on this car.
A8. Press the brake pedal and either check for reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help confirm if the lights come on.
Q9. Tell me how you’d check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
A9. If the steering feels heavy, the system may not be working properly. Two checks: Apply gentle pressure on the steering wheel while starting the engine—there should be a slight movement. Alternatively, turn the wheel just after moving off; it should feel light if assistance is working.
Q10. Tell me how you’d switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you’d use them. You don’t need to leave the vehicle.
A10. Turn on the dipped headlights and the fog light switch (ignition may need to be on). Check the warning light comes on. Use fog lights when visibility drops below 100 metres.
Q11. Tell me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you’d know it’s on.
A11. Operate the switch (ignition or engine may need to be on). A blue warning light on the dashboard will confirm that the main beam is on.
Q12. Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has enough oil.
A12. Identify the dipstick or oil level indicator, remove and wipe it, reinsert it, then check the oil level is between the minimum and maximum markers.
Q13. Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has enough coolant.
A13. Locate the header tank or radiator filler cap and check the coolant level against the high and low markings. Top up if needed when the engine is cool.
Q14. Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check you have a safe level of brake fluid.
A14. Identify the brake fluid reservoir and check the level is between the high and low markers.
Note: For questions 12–14, you will need to physically open the bonnet and explain how you would carry out each check.
Show Me Questions:
Before answering a “show me” question while driving, please ensure it’s safe to do so by checking your surroundings. Safety is the priority. If you’re unsure how to perform the action, you’ll only receive a minor fault. However, if you lose control of the vehicle while attempting it, it may result in a serious fault.
Q1. When it’s safe to do so, could you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
A1. The process may vary slightly depending on your vehicle’s make and model. Usually, you activate the rear wiper and washer by pushing or pulling the indicator stalk on the right-hand side. In some cars, a toggle function on the stalk may be used instead. Remember: Only attempt this when it’s safe, and be careful not to lose control of the vehicle while operating the controls.
Q2. When it’s safe to do so, could you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
A2. This is similar to cleaning the rear windscreen. Typically, you just need to gently pull the indicator stalk on the right-hand side towards you using your fingers. Important: Keep your hands on the wheel as much as possible and your eyes on the road. Only perform this action when it’s safe, and be sure not to lose control of the vehicle.
Q3. When it’s safe to do so, could you show me how you would switch on your dipped headlights?
A3. You may be asked to demonstrate this during your driving test. It typically involves turning a dial or rotating a switch, often located on or near the dashboard or light control stalk.If you’re unsure, check your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions.
Q4. When it’s safe to do so, could you show me how you would set the rear demister?
A4. To activate the rear demister, you may need to turn on the fan, adjust the airflow to the rear window, and increase the temperature. In most modern vehicles, there’s a dedicated rear demister button, usually marked with a square and wavy lines rising from the bottom, symbolising warm air directed at the glass.
Q5. When it’s safe to do so, could you show me how you would demist the front windscreen?
A5. As with the rear, you’ll need to switch on the fan, direct the airflow towards the front windscreen, and increase the temperature. Most vehicles also have a dedicated front demist button, often marked with a windscreen icon and wavy lines rising from the bottom to represent warm air.
Q6. When it’s safe to do so, could you show me how you would operate the horn?
A6. To operate the horn, press firmly on the centre of the steering wheel or, in some vehicles, use the designated horn button on a stalk behind the wheel. You only need to press it briefly—just enough to show that it works and is loud enough to alert other road users.Some vehicles have a horn symbol marking the exact spot, but in most cases, pressing the centre will activate it. Always check your surroundings before sounding the horn, and only do so when it’s safe.
Q7. When it’s safe to do so, could you show me how you would open and close the side window?
A7. When it’s safe, use your right hand to press the window control switch located on the driver’s door.
The controls are straightforward, press down to lower the window and pull up to close it again.
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