Show Me Tell Me Questions

Show Me Tell Me Graphic

The Show Me, Tell Me Section of the Practical test expects the pupil to either show or explain Simple maintenance checks/tasks regarding the engine. This section of the test is included in the total allotted time for the Practical test which is 40 minutes.

Before the examiner takes you out, he will ask you one Tell Me question such as "Tell me how you would check the brake lights are working on this car". This is followed by one Show Me question such as "Show Me how you would check the horn is working".
You will not fail the whole Practical Test if you answer these questions incorrectly, however you will incur one driving fault for EACH incorrect answer you provide.

The following questions represent the Show Me / Tell me questions you may be asked by your examiner.

Show me:

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

2. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don't start the engine).

3. Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

4. Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear, make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle

5. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

6. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level.

7. Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

8. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).

9. Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers

10. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens

11. Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle)

12. Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car

Tell me:

1. Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

2. Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

3. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked

4. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash

5. 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.

6. Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. (No need to exit vehicle)

7. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system