Safety Check Questions (Category B vehicles)
These are all “Show me, tell me” questions. This should be explained to the candidates since candidates are not expected to actually do the checks being explained in the case of the tell me – therefore explain the difference clearly, and always give the benefit of the doubt and opportunity to correct themselves.
Question 1: Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
Answer: Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and checking the functioning of all indicators (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine).
Question 2: Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working (no need to exit the vehicle)
Answer: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then explain that one would walk around the vehicle.
Question 3: Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam (also known as brights) and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car.
Answer: Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.
Question 4: Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit the vehicle).
Answer: Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.
Question 5: Show me how you would check 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.
Answer: Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start the engine).
Question 6: Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.
Answer: A warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system. Question 7: Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
Answer: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. The vehicle should not pull to one side.
Question 8: Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear; make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle.
Answer: Apply the footbrake firmly. Demonstrate by applying a parking brake (handbrake) so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.
Question 9: Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.
Answer: Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary).
Question 10: Show me where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
Answer: Identify the reservoir and explain how to check the level.
Question 11: Open the bonnet and show me where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
Answer: Identify reservoir, and check level against high/low markings.
Question 12: Open the bonnet and show me where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
Answer: Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum / maximum markers.
Question 13: Open the bonnet and show me where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level.
Answer: Identify high/low-level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
Question 14: Show me and tell me how you would check that the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
Answer: 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 while the engine is started, 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.
Question 15: Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off-road only).
Answer: Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).
Question 16: Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this vehicle and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Answer: Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.
Question 17: 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.
Answer: No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Question 18: Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
Answer: The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. Note that some restraints might not be adjustable; however, the candidate must demonstrate that he/she understands that it is not adjustable.
Question 19: Show me how you would use the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, including both front and rear screens.
Answer: Set all relevant controls including fan, temperature, air direction/source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. The engine does not have to be started for this demonstration.
Question 20: Tell me how much is the distance you have to leave between you and the parked cars while driving?
We always have to keep at least 1 meter distance.