DVSA Vehicle Safety and Maintenance 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does the battery charge warning light indicate when it stays on while driving?
- The battery is fully charged
- The battery is not being charged and there may be a fault with the charging system (Correct answer)
- The headlights are too bright
- The radio is drawing too much power
Correct answer: The battery is not being charged and there may be a fault with the charging system
If the battery warning light stays on while driving, it means the alternator is not charging the battery. You should get this checked immediately as the battery will eventually go flat.
Question 2: What is the purpose of the brake fluid reservoir?
- To lubricate the brake discs
- To cool the brakes during heavy use
- To provide hydraulic fluid for the braking system to function (Correct answer)
- To clean the brake pads
Correct answer: To provide hydraulic fluid for the braking system to function
Brake fluid is the hydraulic fluid that transfers force from the brake pedal to the brake callipers. If the level drops too low, braking efficiency is seriously reduced.
Question 3: What should you do if your vehicle pulls to one side when braking?
- Increase speed to correct it
- Have the brakes checked by a qualified mechanic (Correct answer)
- Only use the handbrake
- Ignore it as this is normal
Correct answer: Have the brakes checked by a qualified mechanic
If the vehicle pulls to one side when braking, it usually indicates uneven brake wear or a sticking calliper. This is a serious safety issue and must be checked immediately.
Question 4: What is the purpose of the head restraint in your vehicle?
- To help you sleep on long journeys
- To protect your neck in a rear-end collision (Correct answer)
- To improve your driving posture
- To block the rear view for passengers
Correct answer: To protect your neck in a rear-end collision
Head restraints are primarily designed to reduce whiplash injuries by supporting your head and neck in a rear-end collision. They are a safety device, not a comfort feature.
Question 5: What document proves your vehicle has passed its emissions and safety test?
- V5C registration certificate
- Insurance certificate
- MOT certificate (Correct answer)
- Driving licence
Correct answer: MOT certificate
The MOT certificate confirms that your vehicle met the minimum safety and environmental standards at the time of the test. It covers items including emissions, brakes, lights, tyres, and steering.
Question 6: How should you secure a load on a trailer?
- Place it loosely so it can shift on corners
- Distribute weight evenly and secure it with appropriate restraints (Correct answer)
- Put all heavy items at the back
- Only secure it if travelling on motorways
Correct answer: Distribute weight evenly and secure it with appropriate restraints
Loads must be distributed evenly and secured properly with appropriate restraints. An unbalanced or unsecured load can cause the trailer to become unstable, especially at speed.
DVSA Vehicle Safety and Maintenance 4
What does the battery charge warning light indicate when it stays on while driving?