Show Me Tell Me Questions – 2022 BMW 1 Series

Passing your driving test isn’t just about driving safely on the road. You also need to demonstrate that you understand some of the basic safety checks and controls on your vehicle.

These are known as the Show Me Tell Me questions.

If you’re learning in a 2022 BMW 1 Series, this guide from Fast Pass Driving School will help you become familiar with the important under-bonnet components you may need to identify or explain during your driving test.

We’ve used a BMW 1 Series engine bay to make the locations easier to recognise, including:

• Engine oil

• Brake fluid

• Coolant

• Windscreen washer fluid

Knowing what each component does — and where it is located — can help you feel much more confident when your instructor asks a Show Me Tell Me question.

What are the Show Me Tell Me questions?

The Show Me Tell Me section of the practical driving test checks that you have a basic understanding of your vehicle and can carry out or explain simple safety checks.

You may be asked a “Tell Me” question before you start driving, where you explain how you would carry out a safety check.

During the drive, you may also be asked a “Show Me” question, where you demonstrate a vehicle control while continuing to drive safely.

The important thing is not simply memorising an answer. You should understand what you’re checking, why you’re checking it and where the relevant controls or components are located.

2022 BMW 1 Series under-bonnet checks

Engine Oil

Engine oil lubricates the engine and helps reduce friction between its moving parts.

On the BMW 1 Series, the engine oil filler cap is located on the engine cover.

For a driving test question, you should be able to explain how you would check the engine oil level safely and make sure the vehicle is on suitable, level ground where appropriate.

Remember:

Engine oil = lubricates and protects the engine.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is part of the vehicle’s braking system and allows hydraulic pressure to be transferred when you operate the brakes.

The brake-fluid reservoir is located within the engine bay and has identifiable markings on the reservoir.

You should know how you would check that the fluid level is between the appropriate MIN and MAX markings.

Remember:

Brake fluid = helps the braking system operate correctly.

If you notice that the brake-fluid level is unusually low, don’t simply ignore it. It may indicate a problem that requires investigation.

Windscreen Washer Fluid

The windscreen washer-fluid reservoir is identified by its blue cap.

Washer fluid is used to clean the windscreen so that you can maintain good visibility while driving.

Before setting off, it’s important to make sure you have enough washer fluid, particularly during wet or dirty road conditions.

Remember:

Washer fluid = clean windscreen = clear visibility.

Engine Coolant

Engine coolant helps regulate the temperature of the engine and prevents it from overheating.

The coolant system contains hot and pressurised fluid when the engine is warm, so never remove a coolant-system cap when the engine is hot.

The exact appearance and accessibility of the coolant expansion tank can vary depending on the vehicle specification, so make sure you familiarise yourself with the actual BMW 1 Series you’re learning in.

Remember:

Coolant = helps prevent the engine overheating.

Why should you learn these checks?

The Show Me Tell Me questions are designed to make sure drivers understand some of the basic safety features and maintenance requirements of their vehicle.

You don’t need to be a mechanic.

However, you should be comfortable with basic checks such as:

• Checking fluid levels

• Understanding warning lights

• Knowing how to operate important controls

• Checking that your tyres are safe

• Understanding how to keep your windscreen clean

• Knowing how to carry out basic vehicle safety checks

These are useful skills long after you’ve passed your driving test.

There Are More Show Me Tell Me Questions

The questions covered above are just some of the Show Me Tell Me questions you may be asked during your driving test. There are several different vehicle safety questions you could be asked, so it’s important to prepare for the full range of questions rather than relying on just a few.

To make sure you’re fully prepared for your UK driving test, take a look at our complete guide to the Show Me Tell Me questions and answers. You’ll find the full list of questions you could be asked, including what you need to demonstrate or explain to the examiner.

View our full list of Show Me Tell Me questions and practise your answers before your driving test so you can approach test day feeling prepared and confident.