driving test safety questions

From September 2003 pupils are required to answer two from a series of twelve simple " show me tell me " questions on vehicle safety. If one or both are answered incorrectly, it would be assessed as one driving fault, which in itself would not constitute a serious fault. The information on this page will help to illustrate the questions and answers required..................You can also ..Download DSA Car Safety Questions

How to check the oil

Its always better to check the oil first thing before you start the engine and on level ground, so as to obtain a true reading.

Pull the dipstick, wipe it with a dry cloth, then set it back in the slot - Now pull the dipstick again and check the level ie : High / Low

If it is nearer the Low level, top up as neccessary. Use a good quality oil, and make sure you do not mix diesel oil with oil for a petrol engine. Make sure it is the correct viscosity ie : 15/ 40

Check the engine coolant level :

You should not need to top up that often.

If you do, remove the cap carefully and NOT when the engine is hot !

Before topping up the level, ensure the correct mixture of antifreeze and water are used.

Again just like the oil check this is best done first thing when the engine is cold.

Screen washer bottle

This can be checked visually -Top it up to the neck of the bottle. Some additives can be mixed during colder weather

Check brake fluid reservoir :

Check brake fluid level visually using marks on the side of the clear plastic container MAX / MIN.

The brake fluid resorvoir cap symbol is very similar to the handbrake warning This helps when you are trying to locate it

If you see the level as LOW, get the condition of the brake pads checked out by a mechanic. It may be that they need replacing and this could be the reason for the low level reading.

If you do have to open the brake fluid container to check, remember that the fluid itself is very corrosive to paintwork !

A "spongy " feel to the brake pedal will give an indication of problems in the system.

Check the parking brake for excessive wear - " show " - demonstrate by applying the handbrake that it secures itself and is not at the end of the working travel.

Checking vehicle lightbulbs :

Most car light bulbs can be checked easily by switching on dipped headlights, hazard lights, and by applyiing the footbrake whilst someone checks all bulbs. If you are on your own, back up against a reflective surface and you can check if the brake lights are operating after you have had a visual check all round.

Keep a cloth in your car to clean lights especially during winter so you can see and be seen.

Carry a spare set of bulbs to fit your car ( brake light bulbs need to be replaced more often )

When replacing halogen headlight bulbs, make sure you do not touch the head of the bulb with your fingers.Touch only the plug end.

Check the tyres

Do a visual check on your tyres now and again, to insure there is no damage to the side walls ( cuts / bulges ) Check tyres tread wear indicators This will insure you have at least the minimum legal requirement of 1.6 mm over 75 % of the central width of the tyre.

Recommended tyre pressures can be found in the glove box or in the manual. This location will vary from car to car.

From time to time have your steering alignment checked, this will insure there is no uneven wear in the tyres

Ancillary Controls

Make sure you know how to locate and operate - Heater / rear demist, lights, horn and wipers. - You will be marked on your ability to find these controls quickly, as weather conditions may change while on test.

The / demister / rear screen heater controls are housed in the centre consul in front of the gear lever as shown.

Under the bonnet

The image on the right shows car bonnet open and highlights the weekly " levels checks "