How it works: On the way to the car the examiner asks you a couple of Tell Me questions. At the car they check the bodywork, tyres and brake discs, then ask you to open the bonnet for further questions — all while inspecting the vehicle. They also verify your documents (NCT, insurance, tax) and ask you to operate your front and rear indicators and brake light. Inside the car, a couple more questions follow. 3 incorrect answers = 1 Grade 2 fault recorded — even if you can't answer a single question, only one fault is noted. It won't fail you on its own, but first impressions count: showing a lack of vehicle knowledge here, then making the same errors on the road, drastically reduces your chances of passing.
Questions 1–11
Asked before you drive. You answer verbally — the examiner asks, you explain. You do not need to physically demonstrate these.
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack when pressed. Brakes should be tested as you set off — the vehicle should stop promptly and not pull to one side.
Refer to the manufacturer's guide or the label inside the door frame or fuel cap. Use a reliable tyre pressure gauge. Check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold — not after a long drive. Don't forget the spare tyre. Remember to refit valve caps after checking.
The rigid part of the head restraint should be 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: some restraints are not adjustable.
No cuts or bulges in the tyre wall. Minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Operate the light switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk around the vehicle to check all headlights and tail lights are illuminated. As this is a Tell Me question, you don't need to physically do it — just explain the process.
The ABS warning light on the dashboard will illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system. It should light briefly when the ignition is turned on and go off — if it stays on, there is a fault.
Operate the indicator switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk around the vehicle to check all four indicators are flashing correctly. As this is a Tell Me question, just explain the process — you don't need to physically check them.
Press the brake pedal and check the reflection in a wall, window or garage door — or ask someone to stand behind the car and confirm the lights are on.
If the steering becomes very heavy, the system may not be working properly. Two checks before setting off:
Check 1: Apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel while starting the engine — you should feel a slight but noticeable movement as the power assistance kicks in.
Check 2: Turn the steering wheel just after moving off — you'll get an immediate indication of whether power assistance is functioning.
Switch on dipped headlights first (and ignition if necessary), then operate the fog light switch. Confirm the rear fog warning light on the dashboard is illuminated.
When to use: Rear fog lights should be used when visibility is seriously reduced — generally when you cannot see more than 100 metres ahead.
With the ignition or engine on, operate the main beam switch (usually a pull or push on the indicator stalk). The blue main beam warning light on the dashboard will illuminate to confirm main beam is active.
Questions 12–14
The examiner asks you to open the bonnet and identify or describe a check. You must physically open the bonnet and point to the correct component.
Open the bonnet. Identify and point to the dipstick (or oil level indicator on newer cars). Describe how to remove it, wipe it clean, reinsert fully, remove again and read the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.
Open the bonnet. Identify and point to the coolant header tank (translucent reservoir). Check the coolant level against the HIGH and LOW markings on the side of the tank. If low, describe how to top up to the correct level using the appropriate coolant mixture. Never open the cap on a hot engine.
Open the bonnet. Identify and point to the brake fluid reservoir (usually near the back of the engine bay on the driver's side). Check the fluid level against the HIGH and LOW markings on the side of the reservoir.
Show Me Questions
Asked during the drive. When it is safe to do so, you physically demonstrate the action. Do not take your eyes off the road — operate the control naturally and safely.
Know the faults before you drive
The vehicle questions are just the start — find out what the examiner records during the drive and which faults fail the most candidates.