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NaTIS Code 2 Learner study materials
NaTIS Code 2 Learner study resources

NaTIS Code 2 Learner: Vehicle controls, vehicle condition and pre-trip checks

NaTIS Code 2 Learner · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.

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Vehicle controls, vehicle condition and pre-trip checks

Domain 3: Vehicle controls, vehicle condition and pre-trip checks

This domain tests two things: that you can operate each control smoothly and know what it does, and that you can inspect a vehicle and decide whether it is fit to drive. Practical candidates are marked on the cockpit drill and on spotting faults during the pre-trip inspection.

The controls

Clutch (manual), brake, accelerator, gear lever, parking brake, steering wheel, indicators, headlights and dip switch, hazard lights, hooter, wipers, mirrors and demisters. Know the sequence: clutch in, select the gear, clutch out smoothly while feeding in accelerator. The parking brake holds the vehicle when parked; it is not a substitute for the service brake.

Cockpit drill

Before moving: seat position (clutch fully depressed with the knee still bent), head restraint level with the top of your ears, mirrors set so you see a sliver of your own vehicle, seatbelt on, doors closed, gear in neutral, parking brake up.

Pre-trip checks

  • Tyres - pressure checked cold against the manufacturer's figures, tread above the 1 mm legal minimum, no cuts, bulges or exposed cord; spare inflated.
  • Fluids - engine oil on level ground with the engine off, coolant only when cold, brake fluid at the mark, washer bottle full, no fresh leaks under the vehicle.
  • Lights - headlights, dip, brights, indicators, brake lights, hazards and number-plate lamp.
  • Other - wipers and blades, hooter, secure mirrors, fan-belt tension, load secured, plates legible.

Worked example

The brake pedal sinks slowly towards the floor while you hold pressure at a stop. Reasoning: a healthy pedal feels firm and holds its height. A sinking pedal points to a hydraulic leak or air in the system, not merely worn pads. Do not drive; check the brake fluid level and have the system inspected.

Traps

Checking tyre pressure when hot and then over-inflating; opening a hot radiator cap; mistaking a soft pedal for normal; ignoring a pull to one side under braking, which signals a brake or alignment fault.