At the beginning of your driving test you will be asked two vehicle maintenance questions. If you get one or both questions wrong you will receive a driving fault on your driving test. The questions are as follows:

Horn

Check is carried out by pressing the horn once and checking it works.

Steering

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.

Set all relevent controls including fan, temperature, air direction/source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration.

Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (Turn ignition on if necessary.)

The head restraint should be adjusted so that 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 comfortable.

Lights

Operate the switch, check the main beam warning light.

Operate switch, check warning light is on and explain that you would use them when visibility drops below 100m.

Operate switch and walk around car.

Apply the indicators or hazard warning lights. Walk around the vehicle and check that the correct lights are flashing.

Fluids

Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum / maximum markers.

Identify high / low level markings on the header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap and describe how to top up to the correct level.

Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.

Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

Brakes

Demonstrate by applying the handbrake and when it is fully applied it secures itself and is not at the end of working travel.

Operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections or ask someone to assist you.

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack, brakes should be tested as you set off, vehicle should not pull to one side.

Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault.

Tyres

Manufactures guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, do not forget the spare and remember to refit valve caps.

No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm or tread across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.