The ‘Show me, tell me’ section of the Driving Tests

Driving tests are now designed to be challenging in different ways. In the past, people taking their driving test only had to know about the driving practical and theory. Since its inception in 2003 the ‘Show me, tell me’ section of the driving test aims to provide the learner with a wider knowledge of how a car works. ’Show me, tell me’ is designed to enable new drivers to be able to take better care of their car and help them if they get stuck with no immediate help around. This then in turn helps to keep the cars maintained and safer for use on the roads. Here is a list of the 19 possible tasks the learner could be asked to do, during a test they will be asked to carry out at least 2 of them. The learner may be required to check the engine oil level and be asked how they would check that the engine has got sufficient oil. For this they would need to identify the dipstick and describe how they are checking the oil using the maximum and minimum markers. Another check they may have to do is the engine coolant level. All the ‘Show me, tell me’ questions put the learner driver into situations that they will find themselves in a regular basis. Identifying the windscreen washer levels is also something they could be asked to do. This is something that drivers need to ensure they have topped up to the sufficient level to ensure their windscreen can be kept clean. Leaner drivers may have to check whether the brake lights are in full operation but the instructor is allowed to help you with this one if required. Here the learner can make use of any windows or garage doors that can be used to reflect the light off or as mentioned, you can ask the instructor to help you. In your test if you are asked to do this then you must not turn the engine on, instead just turn on the ignition. Alternative tasks may include checking the tyre tread and that their general condition is suitable to drive on. You may be required to find out what the recommended tyre pressure is for the car you are in, which would require you to refer to either the manufacturers guide, the wall of the tyre itself, the sill of the car door or another place where this detail is printed. There are 19 possible tasks that you may be required to perform before moving on to the actual driving part of your test. Power steering is on many cars nowadays and as such you may be asked to check if it is working properly before setting off. Here you are obviously looking for the steering to be manoeuvrable and if it becomes heavy then there is probably a problem with the system. These tasks will help you when you pass your test as there is nothing worse than breaking down during the first couple of weeks of passing. The ‘Show me, tell me’ section will help you spot potential problems before they become actual problems. If you've recently passed your driving test and are looking to buy a new or used car then check out car loans which are great for helping you get some form of car credit to buy your new car.

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