These are basic safety checks that a
driver should carry out to ensure the
vehicle is safe for use. Although some
checks may involve the candidate in opening
the bonnet to identify where fluid levels
would be checked, pupils will not be asked
to touch a hot engine or physically check
fluid levels.
As vehicle technology advances, more and
more vehicles are being equipped with
electronic diagnostic systems, which inform
the driver of the state of the engine fluid
levels and tyre pressures. It will be
acceptable for a candidate to refer to the
vehicle information system (if fitted) when
answering questions on fluid levels or tyre
pressures.
You can find source material in the DSA
publication 'The official guide to Driving -
the essential skills' and 'The official
DSA guide to learning to drive'. Advice and
information on how to carry out vehicle
safety checks can also be found in the
manufacturer's handbook.
Candidates will be asked two questions,
one 'show me' and one 'tell me'. One or both
questions answered incorrectly will result
in one driving fault being recorded.
