Your driving & learning companion

1. Brakes: How would you check the brakes are working before a journey?
   They should not feel spongy or slack; test as you set off and the vehicle should not pull to one side.
2. Tyre pressures: Where do you find the recommended pressures and how do you check them?
   Use the manufacturer’s guide and a reliable gauge; check cold, adjust as needed, include the spare where applicable and refit valve caps.
3. Head restraint: How do you check it is correctly adjusted?
   The rigid part should be at least as high as the eyes/top of ears and as close to the back of the head as comfortable.
4. Tyres: How do you check tread and condition?
   No cuts or bulges; at least 1.6 mm tread across the central three-quarters and around the full circumference.
5. Headlights/tail lights: How would you check they work?
   Operate the switch (ignition if needed), then explain that you would walk around the vehicle.
6. ABS: How would you know there is a problem?
   The ABS warning light should illuminate if there is a fault.
7. Indicators: How would you check they work?
   Operate the switch (ignition if needed), then explain that you would walk around the vehicle.
8. Brake lights: How would you check them?
   Operate the brake pedal and use reflections, or ask someone to help.
9. Power-assisted steering: How would you check it works?
   Steering becoming heavy can indicate a problem; gentle pressure while starting should produce a slight movement, or check assistance just after moving off.
10. Rear fog lights: How do you switch them on and when would you use them?
    Operate the switch with dipped headlights/ignition as needed, check the warning light and explain when they are used.
11. Main beam: How do you switch from dipped to main beam and know it is on?
    Operate the switch and identify the main-beam warning light.
12. Bonnet – oil: How do you check there is sufficient engine oil?
    Identify the dipstick/oil-level indicator and describe checking against minimum and maximum markers.
13. Bonnet – coolant: How do you check there is sufficient coolant?
    Identify the high/low markings on the header tank (or relevant filler point) and explain topping up correctly.
14. Bonnet – brake fluid: How do you check the hydraulic brake-fluid level?
    Identify the reservoir and check against the high/low markings.

1. Wash and clean the rear windscreen.
2. Wash and clean the front windscreen.
3. Switch on the dipped headlights.
4. Set the rear demister.
5. Operate the horn.
6. Demist the front windscreen.
7. Open and close the side window.

Each is asked as “When it’s safe to do so, can you show me…”