Vehicle structure, systems and safe operation
This domain covers the vehicle systems a driver must monitor and the checks that keep a car roadworthy. Questions ask what a warning light, tyre condition or brake behaviour means, and what action is safe.
Core systems and checks
- Tyres: correct pressure when cold, adequate tread, no cuts or bulges. Low pressure harms grip, steering and fuel use; a bulge is a failure risk.
- Brakes: firm pedal, no pulling, no unusual noise. ABS prevents wheel lock during hard braking but does not always shorten stopping distance.
- Lights: headlights, brake lights, indicators and hazard lights must work and be clean.
- Fluids: engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and screen wash; check levels on level ground and never open a hot radiator.
- Steering and suspension: play, vibration or pulling need inspection.
- Dashboard warnings: red usually means stop safely and investigate; amber means caution and prompt check.
- Load: secure it, respect axle limits and adjust tyre pressure for heavy loads.
Worked example
A tyre-pressure warning appears. You stop safely, check the tyres when cold and find one soft. You inflate it to the manufacturer’s placard value and look for a puncture. Reasoning: pressure affects grip and overheating; the placard, not the tyre sidewall maximum, gives the normal setting; a repeat loss points to a puncture.
Traps
Ignoring a red warning light; checking pressure after a long drive; thinking ABS guarantees a shorter stop on every surface; overloading and not adjusting pressure; using the sidewall maximum as everyday pressure.