Safety Check Questions and Answers

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At the start of the Practical Test you will be asked 2 safety check questions for Learners and 5 for Instructors about your car, from the list below. 

Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear?   Demonstrate by applying parking brake. When it is fully applied it secures itself and is not at the end of its working travel.  

Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey?  Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you move off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

Tell me how you would check the brake lights are working on this car?  Press brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows etc. Or ask someone to help.  

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

Show me how you would check that the horn is working?  Check is carried out by using control.  

Show me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working?  Operate switch, walk round vehicle.  

Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working?  Operate hazard warning switch, walk round vehicle. 

Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked?   In the manufacturers guide. Use a reliable pressure gauge. Check when tyres are cold. Don’t forget spare. Replace valve caps.  

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?   No cuts or bulges. Minimum of 1.6mm tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the total circumference of the tyre.  

Under the bonnet

Tell me how you would check the engine has sufficient oil?  Identify dipstick/oil level indicator. Check level against minimum/maximum markers.  

Tell me how you would check the engine coolant level?  Identify minimum/maximum markings on the header tank (where fitted) or radiator filler cap and describe how to top up to correct level.  

Tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level?   Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.  

Tell me how you would check the brake fluid reservoir level?   Identify reservoir. Check level against minimum/maximum markings.