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Show Me Tell Me / Vehicle Safety Questions Explained

Show Me Tell Me / Vehicle Safety - What is it...

The Vehicle Saftey questions (also called 'Show Me Tell Me') section of the practical Driving Test was introduced in 2003 as a way to encourage new drivers to learn some very basic mechanical knowledge.

The questions were updated in 2008 although they remain very basic. The same 15 questions are used, but in different combinations, so it is possible to learn them.

The Vehicle Saftey questions section of the test happens before any driving and only takes a couple of minutes. The good news is, even if you are hopeless with anything mechanical, it's very easy to pick up this knowledge.

Show Me Tell Me / Vehicle Safety questions explained

Show Me Tell Me / Vehicle Safety Questions Explained

Show Me Tell Me

There are 2 parts to this section of the Driving Test. Candidates will only be asked 2 questions from the 15 on the official list.

Part 1: Show Me

The test Examiner will ask the candidate to show them where something is and explain how to check it.

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

Official Show Me questions

Part 2: Tell Me

The test Examiner will ask the candidate to tell them how to check something is working.

Example: 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.

Official Tell Me questions

Show Me Tell Me - is it possible to fail the test?

No, you can't fail the Driving Test by answering the Vehicle Safety questions incorrectly.

The Driving Test marking system means that a candidate can receive up to 15 minor marks before they fail. The Show Me Tell me questions will result in minor marks being awarded if answered incorrectly.

More Info: Practical Driving Test marking system

Official SHOW Me Questions

QuestionAnswer
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen? Operate the windscreen wiper control so that it sprays the rear windscreen and the wipers clear the liquid away (turn ignition on where necessary).
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen? Operate the windscreen wiper control so that it sprays the front windscreen and the wipers clear the liquid away (turn ignition on where necessary).
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd switch on your dipped headlights? Turn on the light headlights then switch between dipped and full beam (ignition or engine on where necessary), point out the main beam warning light on the dashboard.
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd set the rear demister? Turn on the relevant controls (heated rear screen) to clear the rear windscreen. Engine doesn't have to be started for this demonstration
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd demist the front windscreen? Turn on all relevant controls (fan, temperature, air direction, heated windscreen) to clear the front windscreen. Engine doesn't have to be started for this demonstration
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd operate the horn? Push the horn control so that you can hear it (turn on ignition where necessary).
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd open and close the side window? Operate the electric side window button (or wind the window down and back up where necessary).

Official TELL Me Questions

QuestionAnswer
Tell me how you'd check that the brakes are working before starting a journey. Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
Tell me where you'd find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked. Manufacturer's guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold (including spare tyre), remember to refit valve caps.
Tell me how you'd 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 and bulges, 1.6mm 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 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 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. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable.
Tell me how you'd check that the headlights and tail lights are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle. Explain how you'd operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle (as this is a 'tell me' question, you don't need to physically check the lights).
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'd check the direction indicators are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle. Explain how you'd operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), and then walk round vehicle (as this is a 'tell me' question, you don't need to physically check the lights).
Tell me how you'd check the brake lights are working on this car. Explain how you'd operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help.
Tell me how you'd check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey. If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, 2 simple checks can be made.
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. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.
Tell me how you'd switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you'd use it/them. You don't need to exit the vehicle. Operate the fog light switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition where necessary). Point out the warning light. Explain use.
Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you'd know the main beam is on. Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.
Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that the engine has sufficient oil. Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.

You need to open the bonnet and tell the examiner how you'd do the check
Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant. Point out high/low level markings on header tank (where fitted) or at the radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to the correct level.

You need to open the bonnet and tell the examiner how you'd do the check
Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid. Identify reservoir, check level against high and low markings.

You need to open the bonnet and tell the examiner how you'd do the check