Safety and your vehicle study test (with hints)

Road humps, chicanes, and narrowings are*

always at major road works

used to increase traffic speed

at toll-bridge approaches only

traffic calming measures

Traffic calming measures help keep vehicle speeds low in congested areas where there are pedestrians and children. A pedestrian is much more likely to survive a collision with a vehicle travelling at 20 mph than at 40 mph.

Fuel consumption is at its highest when you are*

braking

coasting

accelerating

steering

Always try to use the accelerator smoothly. Taking your foot off the accelerator allows the momentum of the car to take you forward, especially when going downhill. This can save a considerable amount of fuel without any loss of control over the vehicle.

Why is it a good idea to plan your journey to avoid busy times?*

You will have an easier journey

You will have a more stressful journey

Your journey time will be longer

It will cause more traffic congestion

No one likes to spend time in traffic queues. Try to avoid busy times related to school or work travel. As well as moving vehicles you should also consider congestion caused by parked cars, buses and coaches around schools.

Driving at 70 mph uses more fuel than driving at 50 mph by up to*

10%

30%

75%

100%

Your vehicle will use less fuel if you avoid heavy acceleration. The higher the engine revs, the more fuel you will use. Using the same gear, a vehicle travelling at 70mph will use up to 30% more fuel to cover the same distance, than at 50mph. However, don’t travel so slowly that you inconvenience or endanger other road users.

To help protect the environment you should NOT*

remove your roof rack when unloaded

use your car for very short journeys

walk, cycle, or use public transport

empty the boot of unnecessary weight

Try not to use your car as a matter of routine. For shorter journeys, consider walking or cycling instead – this is much better for both you and the environment.

What should you do when leaving your vehicle?*

Put valuable documents under the seats

Remove all valuables

Cover valuables with a blanket

Leave the interior light on

When leaving your vehicle unattended it is best to take valuables with you. If you can't, then lock them out of sight in the boot. If you can see valuables in your car, so can a thief.

The most important reason for having a properly adjusted head restraint is to*

make you more comfortable

help you to avoid neck injury

help you to relax

help you to maintain your driving position

The restraint should be adjusted so that it gives maximum protection to the head and neck. This will help in the event of a rear- end collision.

On a vehicle, where would you find a catalytic converter?*

In the fuel tank

In the air filter

On the cooling system

On the exhaust system

Although carbon dioxide is still produced, a catalytic converter reduces the toxic and polluting gases by up to 90%. Unleaded fuel must be used in vehicles fitted with a catalytic converter.

Planning your route before setting out can be helpful. How can you do this?*

Look in a motoring magazine

Only visit places you know

Try to travel at busy times

Print or write down the route

Print or write down your route before setting out. Some places are not well signed so using place names and road numbers may help you avoid problems en route. Try to get an idea of how far you’re going before you leave. You can also use it to re-check the next stage at each rest stop.

Missing out some gears saves fuel by reducing the amount of time you spend*

braking

coasting

steering

accelerating

It is not always necessary to change up or down through each gear. Missing out intermediate gears helps to reduce the amount of time you are accelerating. Because fuel consumption is at its highest when accelerating this can save fuel.

How should you dispose of a used car battery?*

Bury it in your garden

Put it in the dustbin

Take it to a local authority site

Leave it on waste land

Batteries contain acid, which is hazardous, and they must be disposed of safely. This means taking them to an appropriate disposal site.

You will find that driving smoothly can*

reduce journey times by about 15%

increase fuel consumption by about 15%

reduce fuel consumption by about 15%

increase journey times by about 15%

Not only will you save about 15% of your fuel by driving smoothly, but you will also reduce the amount of wear and tear on your vehicle as well as reducing pollution. You will also feel more relaxed and have a more pleasant journey.

You are carrying a five year-old child in the back seat of your car. They are under 1.35 metres (4 feet 5 inches) in height. They MUST use an adult seat belt ONLY if*

a correct child restraint is not available

it is a lap type belt

they sit between two adults

it can be shared with another adult

You should make all efforts to ensure a correct child restraint is used, with very few exceptions. If in specific circumstances one is not available, then an adult seat belt MUST be used. Unrestrained objects, including people, can be thrown violently around in a collision, and may cause serious injury or even death!

Your anti-lock brakes warning light stays on. You should*

check the brake fluid level

check the footbrake free play

check that the handbrake is released

have the brakes checked immediately

Consult the vehicle handbook or garage before driving the vehicle. Only drive to a garage if it is safe to do so. If you’re not sure get expert help.

To reduce the volume of traffic on the roads you could*

drive in a bus lane

use a car with a smaller engine

walk or cycle on short journeys

travel by car at all times

Walking or cycling are good ways to get exercise. Using public transport also gives the opportunity for exercise if you walk to the railway station or bus stop. Leave the car at home whenever you can.

How can missing out some gear changes save fuel?*

By reducing the amount of time you are accelerating

Because there is less need to use the footbrake

By controlling the amount of steering

Because coasting is kept to a minimum

Missing out some gears helps to reduce the amount of time you are accelerating and this saves fuel. You don’t always need to change up or down through each gear. As you accelerate between each gear more fuel is injected into the engine than if you had maintained constant acceleration. Fewer gear changes means less fuel used.

How can you help to prevent your car radio being stolen?*

Park in an unlit area

Hide the radio with a blanket

Park near a busy junction

Install a security-coded radio

A security-coded radio can deter thieves as it is likely to be of little use when removed from the vehicle.

It can help to plan your route before starting a journey. Why should you also plan an alternative route?*

Your original route may be blocked

Your maps may have different scales

You may find you have to pay a congestion charge

Because you may get held up by a tractor

It can be frustrating and worrying to find your planned route is blocked by roadworks or diversions. If you have planned an alternative you will feel less stressed and more able to concentrate fully on your driving or riding. If your original route is mostly on motorways it’s a good idea to plan an alternative using non- motorway roads. Always carry a map with you just in case you need to refer to it.

It is essential that tyre pressures are checked regularly. When should this be done?*

After any lengthy journey

After travelling at high speed

When tyres are hot

When tyres are cold

When you check the tyre pressures do so when the tyres are cold. This will give you a more accurate reading. The heat generated from a long journey will raise the pressure inside the tyre.

How can you lessen the risk of your vehicle being broken into at night?*

Leave it in a well-lit area

Park in a quiet side road

Don’t engage the steering lock

Park in a poorly-lit area

Having your vehicle broken into or stolen can be very distressing and inconvenient. Avoid leaving your vehicle unattended in poorly-lit areas.

What will improve fuel consumption?*

Reducing your speed

Rapid acceleration

Late and harsh braking

Driving in lower gears

Harsh braking, frequent gear changes and harsh acceleration increase fuel consumption. An engine uses less fuel when travelling at a constant low speed. You need to look well ahead so you’re able to anticipate hazards early. Easing off the accelerator and timing your approach, at junctions, for example, can reduce the fuel consumption of your vehicle.

You will use more fuel if your tyres are*

under-inflated

of different makes

over-inflated

new and hardly used

Check your tyre pressures frequently – normally once a week. If pressures are lower than those recommended by the manufacturer, there will be more ‘rolling resistance’. The engine will have to work harder to overcome this, leading to increased fuel consumption.

Turning the steering wheel while your car is stationary can cause damage to the*

gearbox

engine

brakes

tyres

Turning the steering wheel when the car is not moving is known as dry steering. It can cause unnecessary wear to the tyres and steering mechanism.

It is a good idea to plan your journey to avoid busy times. This is because*

your vehicle will use more fuel

you will see less road works

it will help to ease congestion

you will travel a much shorter distance

Avoiding busy times means that you are not adding needlessly to traffic congestion. Other advantages are that you will use less fuel and feel less stressed.

You are driving the children of a friend home from school. They are both under 14 years old. Who is responsible for making sure they wear a seat belt or approved child restraint where required?*

An adult passenger

The children

You, the driver

Your friend

Passengers should always be secured and safe. Children should be encouraged to fasten their seat belts or approved restraints themselves from an early age so that it becomes a matter of routine. As the driver you must check that they are fastened securely. It’s your responsibility.

Before starting a journey it is wise to plan your route. How can you do this?*

Look at a map

Contact your local garage

Look in your vehicle handbook

Check your vehicle registration document

Planning your journey before you set out can help to make it much easier, more pleasant and may help to ease traffic congestion. Look at a map to help you to do this. You may need different scale maps depending on where and how far you’re going. Printing or writing out the route can also help.

How could you deter theft from your car when leaving it unattended?*

Leave valuables in a carrier bag

Lock valuables out of sight

Put valuables on the seats

Leave valuables on the floor

If you can see valuables in your car so can a thief. If you can’t take them with you lock them out of sight or you risk losing them, known as ‘dry’ steering.

When leaving your vehicle parked and unattended you should*

park near a busy junction

park in a housing estate

remove the key and lock it

leave the left indicator on

An unlocked car is an open invitation to thieves. Leaving the keys in the ignition not only makes your car easy to steal, it could also invalidate your insurance.

The pictured vehicle is ‘environmentally friendly’ because it is powered by*

gravity

diesel

electricity

unleaded petrol

Trams are powered by electricity and therefore don't emit exhaust fumes. They also ease traffic congestion by offering drivers an alternative to using their car.

The fluid level in your battery is low. What should you top it up with?*

Battery acid

Distilled water

Engine oil

Engine coolant

Some modern batteries are maintenance-free. Check your vehicle handbook and, if necessary, make sure that the plates in each battery cell are covered.

The main cause of brake fade is*

the brakes overheating

air in the brake fluid

oil on the brakes

the brakes out of adjustment

If your vehicle is fitted with drum brakes they can get hot and lose efficiency. This happens when they’re used continually, such as on a long, steep, downhill stretch of road. Using a lower gear will assist the braking and help prevent the vehicle gaining momentum.

As well as planning your route before starting a journey, you should also plan an alternative route. Why is this?*

To let another driver overtake

Your first route may be blocked

To avoid a railway level crossing

In case you have to avoid emergency vehicles

It’s a good idea to plan an alternative route in case your original route is blocked for any reason. You’re less likely to feel worried and stressed if you’ve got an alternative in mind. This will enable you to concentrate fully on your driving or riding. Always carry a map that covers the area you will travel in.

What’s badly affected if the tyres are under-inflated?*

Braking

Indicating

Changing gear

Parking

Your tyres are your only contact with the road. To prevent problems with braking and steering keep your tyres free from defects; they must have sufficient tread depth and be correctly inflated. Correct tyre pressures help reduce the risk of skidding and provide a safer and more comfortable drive or ride.

You are carrying a child using a rear-facing baby seat. You want to put it on the front passenger seat. What MUST you do before setting off?*

Deactivate all front and rear airbags

Make sure any front passenger airbag is deactivated

Make sure all the child safety locks are off

Recline the front passenger seat

You MUST deactivate any frontal passenger airbag when using a rear-facing baby seat in a front passenger seat. It is ILLEGAL if you don’t. If activated in a crash it could cause serious injury or death. Ensure you follow the manufacturers instructions. In some cars this is now done automatically.

Where would parking cause an obstruction to others?*

Near the brow of a hill

In a lay-by

Where the kerb is raised

On your driveway

Think about the effect your parking will have on other road users. Don’t forget that not all vehicles are the size of a car. Large vehicles will need more room to pass and might need more time too. Parking out of the view of traffic, such as before the brow of a hill, causes unnecessary risks. Think before you park.

When leaving your car unattended for a few minutes you should*

leave the engine running

switch the engine off but leave the key in

lock it and remove the key

park near a traffic warden

Always switch off the engine, remove the key and lock your car, even if you are only leaving it for a few minutes.

The legal minimum depth of tread for car tyres over three quarters of the breadth is*

1 mm

1.6 mm

2.5 mm

4 mm

Tyres must have sufficient depth of tread to give them a good grip on the road surface. The legal minimum for cars is 1.6 mm. This depth should be across the central three quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire circumference.

When should you especially check the engine oil level?*

Before a long journey

When the engine is hot

Early in the morning

Every 6000 miles

During long journeys an engine can use more oil than on shorter trips. Insufficient oil is potentially dangerous: it can lead to excessive wear and expensive repairs. Most cars have a dipstick to allow the oil level to be checked. If not, you should refer to the vehicle’s handbook. Also make checks on
- fuel
- water
- tyres.

'Red routes' in major cities have been introduced to*

raise the speed limits

help the traffic flow

provide better parking

allow lorries to load more freely

Traffic jams today are often caused by the volume of traffic. However, inconsiderate parking can lead to the closure of an inside lane or traffic having to wait for oncoming vehicles. Driving slowly in traffic increases fuel consumption and causes a build-up of exhaust fumes.

Supertrams or Light Rapid Transit (LRT) systems are environmentally friendly because*

they use diesel power

they use quieter roads

they use electric power

they do not operate during rush hour

This means that they do not emit toxic fumes, which add to city pollution problems. They are also a lot quieter and smoother to ride on.

You are carrying an 11 year old child in the back seat of your car. They are under 1.35 metres (4 feet 5 inches) in height. You MUST make sure that*

they sit between two belted people

they can fasten their own seat belt

a suitable child restraint is available

they can see clearly out of the front window

It is your responsibility as a driver to ensure that children are secure and safe in your vehicle. Make sure you are familiar with the rules. In a few very exceptional cases when a child restraint is not available, an adult seat belt MUST be used. Child restraints and seat belts save lives!

Which of the following should not be kept in your vehicle?*

A first aid kit

A road atlas

The tax disc

The vehicle documents

Never leave the vehicle’s documents inside it. They would help a thief dispose of the vehicle more easily.

Why do MOT tests include a strict exhaust emission test?*

To recover the cost of expensive garage equipment

To help protect the environment against pollution

To discover which fuel supplier is used the most

To make sure diesel and petrol engines emit the same fumes

Emission tests are carried out to ensure your vehicle's engine is operating efficiently. This ensures the pollution produced by the engine is kept to a minimum. If your vehicle is not serviced regularly, it may fail the annual MOT test.

You must NOT sound your horn*

between 10 pm and 6 am in a built-up area

at any time in a built-up area

between 11.30 pm and 7 am in a built- up area

between 11.30 pm and 6 am on any road

Vehicles can be noisy. Every effort must be made to prevent excessive noise, especially in built-up areas at night. Don’t rev the engine or sound the horn unnecessarily. It is illegal to sound your horn in a built-up area between 11.30 pm and 7 am, except when another vehicle poses a danger.

New petrol-engined cars must be fitted with catalytic converters. The reason for this is to*

control exhaust noise levels

prolong the life of the exhaust system

allow the exhaust system to be recycled

reduce harmful exhaust emissions

We should all be concerned about the effect traffic has on our environment. Fumes from vehicles are polluting the air around us. Catalytic converters act like a filter, removing some of the toxic waste from exhaust gases.

You enter a road where there are road humps. What should you do?*

Maintain a reduced speed throughout

Accelerate quickly between each one

Always keep to the maximum legal speed

Drive slowly at school times only

The humps are there for a reason – to reduce the speed of the traffic. Don’t accelerate harshly between them as this means you will only have to brake harshly to negotiate the next hump. Harsh braking and accelerating uses more fuel.

You are checking your trailer tyres. What is the legal minimum tread depth over the central three quarters of its breadth?*

1 mm

1.6 mm

2 mm

2.6 mm

Trailers and caravans may be left in storage over the winter months and tyres can deteriorate. It’s important to check their tread depth and also the pressures and general condition. The legal tread depth applies to the central three quarters of its breadth over its entire circumference.

A driver causes more damage to the environment by*

choosing a fuel-efficient vehicle

having their vehicle regularly serviced

driving in as high a gear as possible

making a lot of short journeys

Avoid using your car for short journeys. On a short journey the engine is unlikely to warm up fully and will therefore be running less efficiently; this will result in it using more fuel and producing higher levels of harmful emissions.

How can driving in an Eco-safe manner help protect the environment?*

Through the legal enforcement of speed regulations

By increasing the number of cars on the road

Through increased fuel bills

By reducing exhaust emissions

Eco-safe driving is all about becoming a more environmentally-friendly driver. This will make your journeys more comfortable as well as considerably reducing your fuel bills and reducing emissions that can damage the environment.

Car passengers MUST wear a seat belt if one is available, unless they are*

in a vehicle fitted with air bags

travelling within a congestion charging zone

sitting in the rear seat

exempt for medical reasons

When adult passengers are travelling in a vehicle, it is their own responsibility to wear a seat belt. However, you should still remind them to use a seat belt.

When leaving your car to help keep it secure you should*

leave the hazard warning lights on

lock it and remove the key

park on a one-way street

park in a residential area

To help keep your car secure when you leave it, you should always remove the key from the ignition, lock it and take the key with you. Don’t make it easy for thieves.

The purpose of a catalytic converter is to reduce*

fuel consumption

the risk of fire

toxic exhaust gases

engine wear

Catalytic converters are designed to reduce a large percentage of toxic emissions. They work more efficiently when the engine has reached its normal working temperature.

When leaving your vehicle where should you park if possible?*

Opposite a traffic island

In a secure car park

On a bend

At or near a taxi rank

Whenever possible leave your car in a secure car park. This will help stop thieves.

While driving, this warning light on your dashboard comes on. It means*

a fault in the braking system

the engine oil is low

a rear light has failed

your seat belt is not fastened

Don’t ignore this warning light. A fault in your braking system could have dangerous consequences.

You need to top up your battery. What level should you fill to?*

The top of the battery

Half-way up the battery

Just below the cell plates

Just above the cell plates

Top up the battery with distilled water and make sure each cell plate is covered.

Your vehicle has a catalytic converter. Its purpose is to reduce*

exhaust noise

fuel consumption

exhaust emissions

engine noise

Catalytic converters reduce the harmful gases given out by the engine. The gases are changed by a chemical process as they pass through a special filter.

You are testing your suspension. You notice that your vehicle keeps bouncing when you press down on the front wing. What does this mean?*

Worn tyres

Tyres under-inflated

Steering wheel not located centrally

Worn shock absorbers

If you find that your vehicle bounces as you drive around a corner or bend in the road, the shock absorbers might be worn. Press down on the front wing and, if the vehicle continues to bounce, take it to be checked by a qualified mechanic.

A roof rack fitted to your car will*

reduce fuel consumption

improve the road handling

make your car go faster

increase fuel consumption

If you are carrying anything on a roof rack, make sure that any cover is securely fitted and does not flap about while driving. Aerodynamically designed roof boxes are available which reduce wind resistance and, in turn, fuel consumption.

When is it acceptable for a passenger to travel in a car without wearing a seat belt?*

When they're under 14 years old

When they're under 1.5 metres (5 feet) in height

When they're sitting in the rear seat

When they're exempt for medical reasons

If you have adult passengers, it's their responsibility to wear a seat belt, but you should still remind them to use one as they get in the car. It's your responsibility to make sure that all children in your car are secured with an appropriate restraint. Exemptions are allowed for those with a medical exemption certificate.

To help keep your car secure you could join a*

vehicle breakdown organisation

vehicle watch scheme

advanced driver’s scheme

car maintenance class

The vehicle watch scheme helps reduce the risk of having your car stolen. By displaying high visibility vehicle watch stickers in your car you are inviting the police to stop your vehicle if seen in use between midnight and 5 am.

It can help to plan your route before starting a journey. You can do this by contacting*

your local filling station

a motoring organisation

the Driver Vehicle Licensing Agency

your vehicle manufacturer

Most motoring organisations will give you a detailed plan of your trip showing directions and distance. Some will also include advice on rest and fuel stops. The Highways Agency website will also give you information on roadworks and incidents and gives expected delay times.

What will reduce the risk of neck injury resulting from a collision?*

An air-sprung seat

Anti-lock brakes

A collapsible steering wheel

A properly adjusted head restraint

If you’re involved in a collision, head restraints will reduce the risk of neck injury. They must be properly adjusted. Make sure they aren’t positioned too low, in a crash this could cause damage to the neck.

What can you do to help the environment?*

Cycle when possible

Drive on under-inflated tyres

Only use your car for short journeys

Use the brakes heavily

Although the car is a convenient form of transport it can also cause damage to health and the environment, especially when used on short journeys. Before you travel consider other types of transport. Walking and cycling are better for your health and public transport can be quicker, more convenient and less stressful than driving.

Which of the following may help to deter a thief from stealing your car?*

Always keeping the headlights on

Fitting reflective glass windows

Always keeping the interior light on

Etching the car number on the windows

Having your car registration number etched on all your windows is a cheap and effective way to deter professional car thieves.

Rapid acceleration and heavy braking can lead to*

reduced pollution

increased fuel consumption

reduced exhaust emissions

increased road safety

Using the controls smoothly can reduce fuel consumption by about 15% as well as reducing wear and tear on your vehicle. Plan ahead and anticipate changes of speed well in advance. This will reduce the need to accelerate rapidly or brake sharply.

What does Eco-safe driving achieve?*

Increased fuel consumption

Improved road safety

Damage to the environment

Increased exhaust emissions

The emphasis is on hazard awareness and planning ahead. By looking well ahead you will have plenty of time to deal with hazards safely and won’t need to brake sharply. This will also reduce damage to the environment.

What does the law require you to keep in good condition?*

Gears

Transmission

Door locks

Seat belts

Unless exempt, you and your passengers must wear a seat belt (or suitable child restraint). The seat belts in your car must be in good condition and working properly; they will be checked during its MOT test.

Catalytic converters are fitted to make the*

engine produce more power

exhaust system easier to replace

engine run quietly

exhaust fumes cleaner

Harmful gases in the exhaust system pollute the atmosphere. These gases are reduced by up to 90% if a catalytic converter is fitted. Cleaner air benefits everyone, especially people who live or work near congested roads.

Excessive or uneven tyre wear can be caused by faults in the*

gearbox

engine

suspension

exhaust system

Uneven wear on your tyres can be caused by the condition of your vehicle. Having it serviced regularly will ensure that the brakes, steering and wheel alignment are maintained in good order.

How can drivers help the environment?*

By accelerating harshly

By accelerating gently

By using leaded fuel

By driving faster

Rapid acceleration and heavy braking lead to increased fuel consumption, and wear on your vehicle. Having your vehicle regularly serviced will maintain its efficiency, produce cleaner emissions and reduces the risk of a breakdown.

What can cause excessive or uneven tyre wear?*

A faulty gearbox

A faulty braking system

A faulty electrical system

A faulty exhaust system

If you see that parts of the tread on your tyres are wearing before others, it may indicate a brake, steering or suspension fault. Regular servicing will help to detect faults at an early stage and this will avoid the risk of minor faults becoming serious or even dangerous.

Driving with under-inflated tyres can affect*

engine temperature

fuel consumption

the gearbox

oil pressure

Keeping your vehicle’s tyres correctly inflated is a legal requirement. Your vehicle will use less fuel and have a shorter stopping distance with correctly inflated tyres.

As a driver, you can help reduce pollution levels in town centres by*

driving more quickly

over-revving in a low gear

walking or cycling

driving short journeys

Using a vehicle for short journeys means the engine does not have time to reach its normal running temperature. When an engine is running below its normal running temperature it produces increased amounts of pollution. Walking and cycling do not create pollution and have health benefits as well.

When a roof rack is not in use it should be removed. Why is this?*

It will affect the suspension

It is illegal

It will affect your braking

It will waste fuel

We are all responsible for the environment we live in. If each driver takes responsibility for conserving fuel, together it will make a difference.

You are using a rear-facing baby seat. You want to put it on the front passenger seat which is protected by a frontal airbag. What MUST you do before setting off?*

Deactivate the airbag

Turn the seat to face sideways

Ask a passenger to hold the baby

Put the child in an adult seat belt

If the airbag activates near a baby seat, it could cause serious injury or even death to the child. It is illegal to fit a rear-facing baby seat into a passenger seat protected by an active frontal airbag. You MUST secure it in a different seat or deactivate the relevant airbag. Follow the manufacturers advice when fitting a baby seat.

Unbalanced wheels on a car may cause*

the steering to pull to one side

the steering to vibrate

the brakes to fail

the tyres to deflate

If your wheels are out of balance it will cause the steering to vibrate at certain speeds. It is not a fault that will rectify itself. You will have to take your vehicle to a garage or tyre fitting firm as this is specialist work.

You are parking your car. You have some valuables which you are unable to take with you. What should you do?*

Park near a police station

Put them under the driver’s seat

Lock them out of sight

Park in an unlit side road

Your vehicle is like a shop window for thieves. Either remove all valuables or lock them out of sight.

You are away from home and have to park your vehicle overnight. Where should you leave it?*

Opposite another parked vehicle

In a quiet road

Opposite a traffic island

In a secure car park

When leaving your vehicle unattended, use a secure car park whenever possible.

It can help to plan your route before starting a journey. You can do this by contacting*

Your local filling station.

A motoring organisation.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.

Your vehicle manufacturer.

Most motoring organisations will give you a detailed plan of your trip showing directions and distance. Some will also include advice on rest and fuel stops. The Highways Agency website will also give you information on roadworks and incidents and gives expected delay times.

What can cause heavy steering?*

Driving on ice

Badly worn brakes

Over-inflated tyres

Under-inflated tyres

If your tyre pressures are low this will increase the drag on the road surface and make the steering feel heavy. Your vehicle will also use more fuel. Incorrectly inflated tyres can affect the braking, cornering and handling of your vehicle to a dangerous level.

It is important to wear suitable shoes when you are driving. Why is this?*

To prevent wear on the pedals

To maintain control of the pedals

To enable you to adjust your seat

To enable you to walk for assistance if you break down

When you’re going to drive, ensure that you’re wearing suitable clothing. Comfortable shoes will ensure that you have proper control of the foot pedals.

When parking and leaving your car you should*

park under a shady tree

remove the tax disc

park in a quiet road

engage the steering lock

When you leave your car always engage the steering lock. This increases the security of your vehicle, as the ignition key is needed to release the steering lock.

How can you plan your route before starting a long journey?*

Check your vehicle’s workshop manual

Ask your local garage

Use a route planner on the internet

Consult your travel agents

Various route planners are available on the internet. Most of them give you various options allowing you to choose the most direct, quickest or scenic route. They can also include rest and fuel stops and distances. Print them off and take them with you.

To reduce the damage your vehicle causes to the environment you should*

use narrow side streets

brake harshly

use busy routes

anticipate well ahead

By looking well ahead and recognising hazards in good time, you can avoid last-minute harsh braking. Watch the traffic flow and look well ahead for potential hazards so you can control your speed accordingly. Avoid over-revving the engine and accelerating harshly as this increases wear to the engine and uses more fuel.

What is most likely to waste fuel?*

Reducing your speed

Driving on motorways

Using different brands of fuel

Under-inflated tyres

Wasting fuel costs you money and also causes unnecessary pollution. Ensuring your tyres are correctly inflated, avoiding carrying unnecessary weight and, removing a roof rack that's not in use, will all help to reduce your fuel consumption.

When parking and leaving your car for a few minutes you should*

leave it unlocked

lock it and remove the key

leave the hazard warning lights on

leave the interior light on

Always remove the key and lock your car even if you only leave it for a few minutes.

Which of these is most likely to deter the theft of your vehicle?*

An immobiliser

Tinted windows

Locking wheel nuts

A sun screen

An immobiliser makes it more difficult for your vehicle to be driven off by a thief. It is a particular deterrent to opportunist thieves.

What is most likely to cause high fuel consumption?*

Poor steering control

Accelerating around bends

Staying in high gears

Harsh braking and accelerating

Accelerating and braking gently and smoothly will help to save fuel, reduce wear on your vehicle and is better for the environment.

It is illegal to drive with tyres that*

have been bought second-hand

have a large deep cut in the side wall

are of different makes

are of different tread patterns

When checking your tyres for cuts and bulges in the side walls, don’t forget the inner walls (ie. those facing each other under the vehicle).

Wherever possible, which one of the following should you do when parking at night?*

Park in a quiet car park

Park in a well-lit area

Park facing against the flow of traffic

Park next to a busy junction

If you are away from home, try to avoid leaving your vehicle unattended in poorly-lit areas. If possible park in a secure, well-lit car park.

You are parking on a two-way road at night. The speed limit is 40 mph. You should park on the*

left with parking lights on

left with no lights on

right with parking lights on

right with dipped headlights on

At night all vehicles must display parking lights when parked on a road with a speed limit greater than 30 mph. They should be close to the kerb, facing in the direction of the traffic flow and not within a distance as specified in The Highway Code.

Which of these, if allowed to get low, could cause you to crash?*

Anti-freeze level

Brake fluid level

Battery water level

Radiator coolant level

You should carry out frequent checks on all fluid levels but particularly brake fluid. As the brake pads or shoes wear down the brake fluid level will drop. If it drops below the minimum mark on the fluid reservoir, air could enter the hydraulic system and lead to a loss of braking efficiency or complete brake failure.

You have too much oil in your engine. What could this cause?*

Low oil pressure

Engine overheating

Chain wear

Oil leaks

Too much oil in the engine will create excess pressure and could damage engine seals and cause oil leaks. Any excess oil should be drained off.

Motor vehicles can harm the environment. This has resulted in*

less use of electrical vehicles

improved public transport

raised speed limits

air pollution

Exhaust emissions are harmful to health. Together with vibration from heavy traffic, this can result in damage to buildings. Most petrol and diesel fuels come from a non-renewable source. Anything you can do to reduce your use of these fuels will help the environment.

You have to leave valuables in your car. It would be safer to*

put them in a carrier bag

park near a school entrance

lock them out of sight

park near a bus stop

If you have to leave valuables in your car, always lock them out of sight. If you can see them, so can a thief.

How can you reduce the chances of your car being broken into when leaving it unattended?*

Take all valuables with you

Park near a taxi rank

Place any valuables on the floor

Park near a fire station

When leaving your car take all valuables with you if you can, otherwise lock them out of sight.

Planning your journey to avoid busy times has a number of advantages. One of these is*

your journey will take longer

you will have a more pleasant journey

you will cause more pollution

your stress level will be greater

Having a pleasant journey can have safety benefits. You will be less tired and stressed and this will allow you to concentrate more on your driving or riding.

What percentage of all emissions does road transport account for?*

10%

20%

30%

40%

Transport is an essential part of modern life but it does have environmental effects. In heavily populated areas traffic is the biggest source of air pollution. Eco-safe driving and riding will reduce emissions and can make a surprising difference to local air quality.

You can save fuel when conditions allow by*

using lower gears as often as possible

accelerating sharply in each gear

using each gear in turn

missing out some gears

Missing out intermediate gears when appropriate, helps to reduce the amount of time spent accelerating and decelerating - the time when your vehicle uses most fuel.

You are having difficulty finding a parking space in a busy town. You can see there is space on the zigzag lines of a zebra crossing. Can you park there?*

No, unless you stay with your car

Yes, in order to drop off a passenger

Yes, if you do not block people from crossing

No, not in any circumstances

It’s an offence to park there. You will be causing an obstruction by obscuring the view of both pedestrians and drivers.

When should you NOT use your horn in a built-up area?*

Between 8 pm and 8 am

Between 9 pm and dawn

Between dusk and 8 am

Between 11.30 pm and 7 am

By law you must not sound your horn in a built-up area between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am. The exception to this is when another road user poses a danger.

You are carrying a 5 year-old child in the back seat of your car. They are under 1.35 metres (4 feet 5 inches). A correct child restraint is NOT available. They MUST*

sit behind the passenger seat

use an adult seat belt

share a belt with an adult

sit between two other children

Usually a correct child restraint MUST be used. In a few exceptional cases if one is not available an adult seat belt MUST be used. In a collision unrestrained objects and people can cause serious injury or even death.

You're leaving your vehicle parked on a road and unattended. When may you leave the engine running?*

If you'll be parking for less than five minutes

If the battery keeps going flat

When parked in a 20 mph zone

Never if you're away from the vehicle

When you leave your vehicle parked on a road, switch off the engine and secure the vehicle. Make sure no valuables are visible, shut all the windows, lock the vehicle, and set the alarm if the vehicle has one.

You are parked at the side of the road. You will be waiting for some time for a passenger. What should you do?*

Switch off the engine

Apply the steering lock

Switch off the radio

Use your headlights

If your vehicle is stationary and is likely to remain so for some time, switch off the engine. We should all try to reduce global warming and pollution.

You are carrying two 13 year old children and their parents in your car. Who is responsible for seeing that the children wear seat belts?*

The children’s parents

You, the driver

The front-seat passenger

The children

Seat belts save lives and reduce the risk of injury. If you are carrying passengers under 14 years of age it’s your responsibility as the driver to ensure that their seat belts are fastened or they are seated in an approved child restraint.

By avoiding busy times when travelling*

you are more likely to be held up

your journey time will be longer

you will travel a much shorter distance

you are less likely to be delayed

If possible, avoid the early morning and, late afternoon and early evening ‘rush hour’. Doing this should allow you to travel in a more relaxed frame of mind, concentrate solely on what you’re doing and arrive at your destination feeling less stressed.

A properly serviced vehicle will result in*

Reduced insurance premiums

Lower vehicle excise duty (road tax)

Better fuel economy

Slower journey times

All vehicles need to be serviced to keep working efficiently; an efficient engine uses less fuel and produces less harmful emissions than an engine running inefficiently. Keeping the vehicle serviced to the manufacturers schedule should also keep it reliable and reduce the chance of it breaking down.

Your vehicle pulls to one side when braking. You should*

change the tyres around

consult your garage as soon as possible

pump the pedal when braking

use your handbrake at the same time

The brakes on your vehicle must be effective and properly adjusted. If your vehicle pulls to one side when braking, take it to be checked by a qualified mechanic. Don’t take risks.

You service your own vehicle. How should you get rid of the old engine oil?*

Take it to a local authority site

Pour it down a drain

Tip it into a hole in the ground

Put it into your dustbin

It is illegal to pour engine oil down any drain. Oil is a pollutant and harmful to wildlife. Dispose of it safely at an authorised site.

You are parked on the road at night. Where must you use parking lights?*

Where there are continuous white lines in the middle of the road

Where the speed limit exceeds 30 mph

Where you are facing oncoming traffic

Where you are near a bus stop

When parking at night, park in the direction of the traffic. This will enable other road users to see the reflectors on the rear of your vehicle. Use your parking lights if the speed limit is over 30 mph.

You are making an appointment and will have to travel a long distance. You should*

allow plenty of time for your journey

plan to go at busy times

avoid all national speed limit roads

prevent other drivers from overtaking

Always allow plenty of time for your journey in case of unforeseen problems. Anything can happen, punctures, breakdowns, road closures, diversions etc. You will feel less stressed and less inclined to take risks if you are not ‘pushed for time’.

You can avoid wasting fuel by*

having your vehicle serviced regularly

revving the engine in the lower gears

keeping an empty roof rack on your vehicle

driving at higher speeds where possible

If you don’t have your vehicle serviced regularly, the engine won’t burn all the fuel efficiently. This will cause increased fuel consumption and an increase in the amount of harmful emissions it produces.

Where would parking your vehicle cause an obstruction?*

Alongside a parking meter

In front of a property entrance

On your driveway

In a marked parking space

Don’t park your vehicle where it may obstruct an access to a business or property. Think carefully before you slow down and stop. Look at road markings and signs to ensure that you aren’t parking illegally.

Would you like free study reminders?*

Yes please

No thanks

We'll email you a different test each day so you can ace your theory test!

Name

Email

Difficulty level