UK PCV Theory Daily Checks and Maintenance Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to UK law, what is the minimum legal tread depth for a tyre fitted to a PCV across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and around the entire outer circumference?

Accepted Answer

1.0 mm

Answer

For Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) and other large vehicles over 3,500kg gross vehicle weight, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.0 mm across a continuous band covering at least three-quarters of the tread width and around the entire circumference. This differs from the 1.6 mm requirement for cars and light vans.

Question 2

During your pre-service walk-around check, you discover a defect that could compromise the safe operation of the vehicle, such as a faulty brake light. What is your legal responsibility before starting your journey?

Accepted Answer

Record the defect in writing, report it to the responsible person, and not use the vehicle until it is rectified.

Answer

The DVSA's 'Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness' states that drivers are responsible for conducting a daily walk-around check and reporting any defects in writing. If a defect could affect the vehicle's safe operation, it must be reported and the vehicle must not be used until it is repaired.

Question 3

When checking the emergency exits on your coach as part of your daily inspection, which of the following is the most important aspect to verify?

Accepted Answer

That the exits are clearly marked, accessible, and all operating mechanisms are working correctly.

Answer

Daily checks must ensure that all emergency exits are unobstructed, clearly signed, and that their opening mechanisms function correctly. This is a critical safety requirement to allow for rapid passenger evacuation in an emergency.

Question 4

Before starting your first journey of the day in a vehicle equipped with a digital tachograph, what is a mandatory action you must perform?

Accepted Answer

Perform a manual entry to account for any other work or rest since you last removed your card.

Answer

Drivers' hours regulations require a complete record of all activities. Before driving, you must use the manual entry function on the digital tachograph to record any work (like the walk-around check), periods of availability, or rest that have occurred since your card was last inserted.

Question 5

You are conducting your daily under-bonnet fluid checks. A low level in which of these reservoirs would most directly and seriously affect your ability to steer the vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Power steering fluid reservoir

Answer

The power steering fluid reservoir holds the hydraulic fluid for the power-assisted steering system. A low level would make steering extremely heavy and difficult, which is a major safety hazard. The other fluids are also important but do not directly affect the steering mechanism.

DVSA UK Driving Theory Practice Test

DVSA UK Driving Theory Practice Test

UK PCV Theory Daily Checks and Maintenance Questions and Answers