When the vehicle is switched off, the steering locks according to its design. In a car with a key, you usually turn the steering wheel gently until the lock engages. To unlock it, turn the key, moving the wheel gently if needed. In cars with a start button, the lock operates automatically. Only do this while stationary, following the vehicle handbook.

Park on level ground and switch off the engine. Wait for the time specified by the manufacturer. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, insert it fully and remove it again: the level must be between MIN and MAX. If there is no dipstick, use the electronic oil level display as described in the handbook.

With the engine running or the vehicle in ready mode, the steering wheel should turn smoothly without unusually high effort or unusual noises. Check that the steering system warning light is off. The check depends on the type of power steering; do not hold the wheel at full lock for a long time.

Find the heated rear window button, usually marked with a rectangle and upward wavy arrows. Pressing it turns on the operating indicator. Do not confuse it with the windscreen demisting symbol.

Check with the engine cool and the vehicle on level ground. The fluid level in the expansion tank should be between MIN and MAX. A hybrid vehicle may have several tanks. Do not open the cap of a hot cooling system: you could be scalded.

With the parking brake applied, the vehicle should remain stationary. Carry out the check in a safe place with an instructor, following the vehicle handbook. An indicator confirms that an electric parking brake is activated, but the light alone does not prove that it holds properly. Do not test it by increasing speed.

Under the bonnet, find the washer fluid reservoir cap marked with a windscreen and water spray symbol. The cap colour may vary, so use the symbol rather than the colour alone. Do not confuse it with the coolant or brake fluid reservoir.

Operate the washers using the appropriate stalk or button. Fluid should spray onto the glass and the wipers should clear it. Front and rear washer controls vary by vehicle; practise using them with your instructor.

In a safe place, briefly press the area of the steering wheel or button marked with the horn symbol. You should hear a clear sound. Consider your surroundings and avoid unnecessary noise.

When the ignition is switched on, the ABS warning light usually illuminates during the self-check and then goes out according to the vehicle’s operating sequence. If it stays on or comes on while driving, there may be a fault. Follow the vehicle handbook and arrange an inspection.

Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the bonnet using the vehicle handbook. The level should be between MIN and MAX. If the level is low or there is a leak, a specialist must check the cause; simply topping up is not enough.

Switch on the left indicator, then the right. Check the dashboard indicator and inspect the lights on the relevant side. Unusually rapid flashing or a warning may indicate a fault.

Pressing the brake pedal should illuminate the brake lights, including the additional light if fitted. Ask another person to check them or observe their reflection behind a safely parked vehicle.

In a safe place with your instructor, drive very slowly and press the brake pedal gently. The vehicle should brake evenly without pulling to one side. The pedal should not sink to the floor. If you notice signs of a fault, stop and do not drive again until the system has been checked.

Switch on the vehicle lights one at a time and visually check their operation. Inspect the front, rear and number plate lights; ask another person to help check the brake and reversing lights. A dashboard indicator confirms activation but does not replace an external inspection.

Look for the manufacturer’s label on the door pillar, fuel filler flap or another location specified in the handbook. Pressures may differ according to load and tyre size. The maximum pressure shown on the tyre sidewall is not the vehicle’s recommended pressure.

Use a pressure gauge, preferably with cold tyres. Unscrew the valve cap, attach the gauge and compare the reading with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation. Replace the cap afterwards. A visual inspection alone cannot establish the exact pressure.

Measure tread depth with a dedicated gauge at several points in the main grooves, especially the most worn areas. Check the tread wear indicators. The depth must meet the current requirements for the season and vehicle. If unsure, have the tyres assessed with an instructor or specialist.

Look for cracks, bulges, cuts, exposed cords, uneven wear and underinflation. Check that the tyres suit the vehicle and season. The manufacturing date code shows the week and year; assess condition according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, not age alone.

Press the button marked with a triangle. The direction indicator lights on the dashboard should flash together. Walk around the vehicle and check all fitted direction indicator lamps. Press the button again to switch the hazard lights off.