Show Me / Tell Me

Why Show Me / Tell Me Questions Matter

The Show Me Tell Me section of your driving test evaluates your understanding of basic vehicle maintenance and safety checks. These questions are crucial because they not only contribute to your overall test score but also ensure you're equipped with the knowledge to keep your vehicle safe and roadworthy.

How to Use This Resource

  1. Learn the Questions: Start by familiarising yourself with the Show Me Tell Me questions and their corresponding answers.

  2. Practice Regularly: Use our practice tools to test your knowledge and track your progress.

  3. Apply Your Knowledge: During your driving lessons, take the opportunity to physically demonstrate the Show Me Tell Me tasks to reinforce your understanding.

Ready to master the Show Me Tell Me questions? Dive in and discover the key to your driving test success today!

Show Me

  • Answer: The control for this is usually on the same stalk as the rear windscreen washer. You have to pull it towards the steering wheel to squirt the windscreen washer. Only use it when it's safe as it might be hard to see out of the windscreen for a second. The wipers can activate automatically in some cars and turn themselves off.

  • Answer: Similar to the rear windscreen, squirt some screenwash and initiate the wipers to clean the windscreen. When you squirt screenwash, your wipers may automatically do a few sweeps to clear the front windscreen.

  • Answer: Find the switch in your vehicle. Turn the switch once to the left for the dipped headlights. The symbol on the dashboard shows they're on. Don't forget to turn them off after. Try not to look at the control when driving.

  • Answer: On most vehicles the demister control is usually in the centre console of the car. Press the button to turn it on. Don't forget to turn it off by pressing it again.

  • Answer: The horn is in the centre of the steering wheel. When there aren't any other road users nearby just press it.

  • Answer: On most vehicles the demister control is usually in the centre console of the car. To turn it on and demist, press the button shown. Don't forget to turn it off by pressing it again.

  • Answer: The controls are on the drivers door. You can open and close any window. The button on the right is for the drivers window. Press it down to fully open the window. Pull it up to close the window. Try not to look at the controls when driving.

Tell Me

  • Answer: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

  • Answer: Find the information in the manufacturer’s guide, B post or fuel cap, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, remember to check spare tyre to refit valve caps.

  • Answer: The head restraint should be adjusted so the top of the head restraint is as high as the top of your head, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. Note: Some restraints might not be adjustable.

  • Answer: There should be at least 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the tyre’s tread around the entire outer circumference of the tyre. There should be no cuts or bulges in the side wall.

  • Answer: Explain you would turn the lights on and then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).

  • Answer: The ABS warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.

  • Answer: Explain how you would operate the hazard light switch (turn on ignition if necessary), and then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).

  • Answer: Explain how you would operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help.

  • Answer: If the steering becomes heavy the power assisted-steering may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, 2 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.

  • Answer: Explain that you would turn on the fog light(s) (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Fog lights should be used when visibility is less than 100m due to rain, fog or spray.

  • Answer: Explain that you would turn on the dipped headlights and then the main beam lights, identify the main beam warning light.

  • Answer: Identify the dipstick, state that you would remove the dipstick, clean it before reinserting it and checking the level describe check of oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.

  • Answer: Identify high and low level markings on coolant tank or radiator filler cap. State that when the engine is cold you would remove the lid and how to top up to correct level if required.

  • Answer: Identify reservoir, check level against high and low markings.