1 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. Identify the dipstick / oil level indicator, describe checking of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.
2 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. Identify high/low level markings on the header tank (where fitted) or radiator filler cap and describe how to top up to the correct level.
3 Identify where the window screen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level. Identify reservoir and explain how to check the level.
4 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. Identify reservoir, check the level against high/low markings
5 Tell me how you would check that your brake lights are working on this car. Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc. or ask someone to help.
6 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 set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
7 Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that they’re of good general condition and safe to use on the road. No cuts or bulges. The legal requirement is 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire circumference.
8 Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how the tyre pressures should be checked. Manufacturers guide / vehicle owners manual. Use a reliable tyre pressure gauge / air line. Check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold. Don’t forget spare tyre and remember to re-fit valve dust caps.
9 Show me (or explain) how you would check that 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, two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained whilst the engine is running, 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.
10 Show me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working. Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk around the vehicle.
11 Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working. Apply the indicators or hazard warning switch and checking functioning of both indicators.
12 Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only). Check is carried out by using control (horn).
13 Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear. Demonstrate by applying parking brake and when it is fully applied, that it secures itself and is not at the end of the working travel
14 Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash. Adjust the head restraint so that it is close to the back of your head and your eyes are half way up
15 Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system The ABS warning light would become illuminated on the instrument panel if there was a problem.
16 Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washers and wipers Operate windscreen washer control.(turn on ignition if necessary)
17 Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens. Set all relevant controls including air vents at both sides to point towards the side windows, use the control switch to direct hot air onto the windscreen , then operate the fan , press heated rear screen switch to clear rear window.
18 Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would need to use them. Operate the rear fog light switch after switching on the dipped headlights. Check the switch is illuminated and explain that they should only be used when visibility is reduced to100 metres or less.
19 Show me how you would switch your headlights from dipped to main beam, and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst in the car. Move the stalk attached to the steering column forwards which will illuminate a blue warning light on the instrument panel.
