During your practical driving test in the UK, the examiner will ask two vehicle safety questions known as “Show Me, Tell Me” questions. These questions test your understanding of basic vehicle checks and safety features.
The Tell Me question is asked before you begin driving, while the Show Me question is asked during the test while you are driving. At Zell Driving School, we make sure all learners understand these checks before their test day so they feel confident answering them.
“When it’s safe to do so…”
Before using the washers, make sure the road is clear as your visibility may be reduced for a few seconds.
The washer control is usually located on the indicator stalk. Pull the stalk towards you and hold it for a couple of seconds. This will spray washer fluid onto the windscreen and automatically operate the wipers.
Once released, the wipers may continue for a few extra wipes.
The rear window washer and wiper control is usually located at the end of the wiper stalk.
To operate it, turn the switch to the correct position.
To wash the rear windscreen, push the stalk away from you. This will spray washer fluid and activate the rear wiper until you release it.
The headlight control is usually located on a steering wheel stalk or dashboard switch.
Turn the control to the dipped headlight position. A green dashboard symbol will normally show that your lights are on.
The rear window demister is usually controlled by a button located on the centre console.
It is a simple on/off function. Press the button to switch it on when needed to clear the rear window.
The horn is usually located in the centre of the steering wheel.
Press the centre area to sound the horn.
⚠ The horn should only be used to warn other road users of danger.
The front windscreen demister is usually controlled by a button on the centre console.
Switch it on to direct warm air onto the windscreen. This helps remove or prevent condensation and improves visibility.
Window controls are usually located on the door panel or centre console.
Press or lift the switch to open or close the window.
Some vehicles have an automatic function where a short press will fully open or close the window.
You will be asked to explain how you would carry out a safety check.
Before moving off, gently test the brakes.
They should feel firm and not soft or spongy.
The car should not pull to one side when braking.
The recommended tyre pressures are usually found in the driver’s door frame or vehicle manual.
Check the tyres when they are cold using a reliable pressure gauge.
Don’t forget to check the spare tyre and refit the valve caps after checking.
The head restraint can be adjusted using a button or lock at the base.
It should be positioned 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 possible.
Tyres should be checked regularly for cuts, bulges, and damage.
They must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around the entire outer edge.
If there is a fault with the ABS, a warning light will appear on the dashboard.
Turn the ignition on and operate the indicators or lights.
You can check they are working by using reflections in windows or nearby surfaces, or by getting out of the car to check.
Brake lights come on when the brake pedal is pressed.
You can check using reflections in windows or other surfaces, or ask someone to stand behind the car and confirm they are working.
Window controls are usually located on the door panel or centre console.
Press or lift the switch to open or close the window.
Some vehicles have an automatic function where a short press will fully open or close the window.
Your main headlights must be on before using fog lights.
Switch on the rear fog light using the control switch (location may vary by car).
Fog lights should only be used when visibility is seriously reduced, such as in fog or heavy rain, and must be turned off when visibility improves.
The headlight controls are usually on a stalk on the steering wheel.
Pull or push the stalk to switch between dipped and main beam.
A blue warning light on the dashboard shows that main beam is on.
Use the dipstick to check the oil level.
Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, then insert it again and remove it to check the level.
The oil should be between the minimum and maximum markers.
Locate the correct reservoirs under the bonnet.
Check that the fluid level is between the minimum and maximum markings.
If needed, top up with the correct fluid and secure the cap properly.
Zell Driving School is a trusted automatic driving school in Liverpool offering professional driving lessons and intensive courses with a high pass rate. With over 7 years of experience and a DVSA-approved instructor, we help learners build confidence and pass their driving test quickly and safely.
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