Since 2004, a candidate sitting the Practical Test must be able to correctly carry out two maintenance checks from a set list compiled by the Driving Standards Agency. Some must actually be demonstrated for the examiner whereas for the others you need only identify where and how the checks would be made.

The official list is listed below together with a suitable response. (Your engine layout might differ from our tuition vehicles pictured below).

Click on a circle to see a close up.
For all the 'under bonnet checks' you need only explain - you do not need to demonstrate.

REMEMBER THAT THE ENGINE COULD BE HOT, SO NO NEED TO TOUCH – JUST POINT!!
Tell me how you would check –
The engine oil level – I would remove the dipstick and wipe the end with a clean rag.  I would then replace the dipstick to get an oil level reading.  It must show to be between minimum and maximum.
The brake fluid level - It must show the level to be between minimum and maximum on the side of the reservoir. 
The coolant level – It must show the level to be between minimum and maximum on the side of the reservoir.  Warning! It’s a pressurised system so do not remove cap while the engine is hot.
The windscreen washer level – Keep topped up at all times.  You can fill the reservoir up until it’s full. 
Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system?.
Response – Identify the relevant warning light that would illuminate if there was a problem.
Tell me how to make sure that your head restraint is correctly adjusted to provide best protection in a crash.
Response – It should be adjusted to be at least as high as the top of the ears and as close to back of the head as possible.
Tell me how you would check that the footbrake is working before starting a journey.
Response – The brakes should not feel spongy or pull to one side. You should test them as soon as you pull away.
Tell me where you would find recommended tyre pressures and how would you check them.
Response – Manufacturers guide, use a pressure gauge when tyres are cold, check spare and replace valve caps.
Tell me how you would check the tyres tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
Response – No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three quarters of the width of the tyre and around the full circumference.
Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.
Response – Operate switch and walk around car to check that all the lights work.
Show me / explain how you would check that the power steering is working before starting a journey.
Response – Gentle turning pressure on the wheel as the engine is started would result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate.
Show me how to set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively.
Response – Set the fan, temperature, air direction and rear demister to maximise de-misting.  
Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car (examiner can assist)
Response – “I would operate the brake pedal when I had a reflected view to the rear such as in a shop window or I would get a passenger to press the brake pedal and I would check myself”.
Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.
Response – Demonstrate by applying the footbrake, disengaging and reapplying the parking brake to show that it secures itself and is not at the end of its working travel.
Show me how you would check that the horn is working properly. 
Response – Check by using the horn for a short burst taking care not to frighten any pedestrians.
Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
Response – Press hazard warning lights to check front, side and rear indicators.
Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the washer and wipers.
Response – Pull the wiper stalk on the right back towards the steering wheel to wash/wipe the screen.
Show me how you would change to and from dipped lights and main beam and how can you tell which is on?
Response – Ignition on but DO NOT START THE CAR. Twist the lights forward on the left stalk and pull back for main beam then back again for dipped. Identify the relevant green and blue lights on the dashboard.
Show me how you would switch on your rear fog lights and explain when you would use them?
Response – Ignition on but DO NOT START THE CAR / lights on/ fogs on left stalk ‘inner collar’. Use if visibility is seriously reduced (100m or less). 

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