DTT Vehicle Safety Checks 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the purpose of the windscreen washer fluid?
- To clean the windscreen of dirt, insects, and road grime while driving (Correct answer)
- To lubricate the wiper blades
- To prevent the windscreen from fogging inside
- To cool the wiper motor
Correct answer: To clean the windscreen of dirt, insects, and road grime while driving
Windscreen washer fluid cleans the windscreen of insects, road grime, and dirt while driving. Always use a proper washer fluid with antifreeze properties — do not use plain water in cold weather as it can freeze in the system.
Question 2: What should you do if your vehicle's steering suddenly feels loose or pulls to one side?
- Stop safely as soon as possible and do not continue driving until the fault is identified (Correct answer)
- Drive slowly to the nearest garage
- Pump the steering wheel to check if it corrects
- Check tyre pressure and if normal, continue driving
Correct answer: Stop safely as soon as possible and do not continue driving until the fault is identified
Sudden changes in steering feel — looseness or pulling — can indicate a tyre failure, steering fault, or suspension problem. These are potentially critical safety issues. Stop safely immediately.
Question 3: What does a grinding or squealing sound when you apply the brakes usually indicate?
- Worn brake pads or discs — the brakes need inspection and likely replacement (Correct answer)
- Normal brake warm-up after sitting overnight
- Brake fluid needs topping up
- The ABS is functioning — this is normal
Correct answer: Worn brake pads or discs — the brakes need inspection and likely replacement
Grinding or squealing under braking is a warning sign that brake pads have worn to the wear indicator or beyond, or that brake discs are damaged. Immediate inspection is required.
Question 4: How should you deal with a tyre blowout while driving at speed?
- Grip the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator gradually, and steer gently to maintain control before braking slowly (Correct answer)
- Apply the brakes immediately and hard
- Steer sharply to the side of the road
- Accelerate briefly to stabilise the vehicle
Correct answer: Grip the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator gradually, and steer gently to maintain control before braking slowly
In a blowout, resist the instinct to brake hard — this can cause a spin. Grip the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator gently, maintain course, then slow down gradually and pull over safely.
Question 5: What is the purpose of the handbrake (parking brake) and when should you apply it?
- To secure the vehicle when parked or stationary — always apply when parking or waiting on a slope (Correct answer)
- Only use on slopes and during the NCT test
- An alternative to the footbrake in an emergency
- Apply only when parked for more than 10 minutes
Correct answer: To secure the vehicle when parked or stationary — always apply when parking or waiting on a slope
The handbrake holds the vehicle stationary when parked or when stopped on a slope. It must always be applied when parking. On a hill, it prevents the vehicle from rolling if the footbrake is released.
Question 6: What should you check about your vehicle's horn before driving?
- Test it occasionally to ensure it works — a non-functioning horn is a defect (Correct answer)
- Horns are only tested at NCT and do not require regular checking
- Test it before every journey
- Horn function is not a legal vehicle requirement in Ireland
Correct answer: Test it occasionally to ensure it works — a non-functioning horn is a defect
A functional horn is a legal requirement. While you don't need to test it before every journey, it should be checked occasionally. A non-functioning horn will fail an NCT.
DTT Vehicle Safety Checks 4
What is the purpose of the windscreen washer fluid?