Vehicle controls, handling and mechanical knowledge
What this domain tests
This domain checks basic mechanical knowledge and control: pre-drive checks, steering, braking, gears, tyres, lights, and what to do when something fails. Questions are practical - what you should feel, hear or check before a fault becomes a crash.
Core rules
- Before driving, check tyres for pressure and tread, lights, mirrors, seat and head restraint, brakes, fluids and that the load is secure.
- Use smooth steering and progressive braking. With ABS, press the brake firmly and steer; do not pump the pedal.
- On a long downhill, select a lower gear and use engine braking. Riding the brakes can cause fade and loss of stopping power.
- If a tyre bursts, hold the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator and slow gradually; do not brake hard.
- In a skid, ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go; avoid sudden braking.
- If the brake pedal sinks or fails, downshift, use the handbrake gradually and look for an escape route.
Worked example
On a steep downhill, your brake pedal feels soft and the car is gaining speed. You should not pump the brakes repeatedly and continue. Instead, select a lower gear to use engine braking, apply the handbrake gradually, and steer toward a safe run-off or lay-by. The soft pedal suggests brake fade or fluid loss, so stopping safely is the priority.
Traps
- Coasting in neutral to save fuel - you lose engine braking and control.
- Pumping ABS brakes.
- Overloading the vehicle and ignoring tyre pressure.
- Using high beam in fog, which reflects back and reduces vision.
- Ignoring a warning light because the car still moves.