RoSPA South West Group

Use of Controls

You will be expected to use all controls smoothly and with finesse.

Steering:

This should be smooth, accurate and controlled. The examiner will watch how you use the steering wheel; your hand position and your method of steering. Although Roadcraft mentions rotational steering in certain circumstances, the preferred method is still pull/push and this will be expected by the examiner.

Clutch:

Your use of the clutch should be smooth showing good balance between clutch and accelerator. Double declutching is not necessary with modern cars but is perfectly acceptable. Sustained revs gear changing, when appropriate, will be appreciated by the examiner. You should not ride or slip the clutch.

Gears:

The way you use the gears will tell the examiner a lot about your ability. He will consider the way you make the change, how you hold the gear lever, the way you match engine revolutions to road speed and the timing of your changes. Intelligent use of the intermediate gears is important as is the ability to omit them when appropriate. When changing gear the palm of the hand may be used to grip the ball of the gear lever and move it smoothly through the neutral gate into the required gear. The cupped palm can rotate slightly to move the gear lever through the neutral gate and reduce the likelihood of mis-selection. If you are tested on a vehicle with an automatic gearbox the examiner will watch your starting procedures and your use of 'kick-down'. He will also note if you override the transmission to keep the vehicle in a lower gear when appropriate. You should not use the automatic gearbox as a manual gearbox.

Brakes:

An important aspect of your driving which will play a large part in your final grading will be your use of the brakes. The examiner will expect smooth braking, applied in good time in one progressive application at the correct point within the system. The pedal pressure should be tapered off when unwanted speed is lost.

Accelerator:

Do you use the accelerator correctly; firmly where it is needed, and precisely and controlled all the time? Do you display acceleration sense which is a hallmark of the accomplished driver? This is the ability to vary the speed of the vehicle in keeping with road and traffic conditions where braking is not needed. The examiner will look for power to be applied precisely, smoothly and progressively at the right time.

Horn:

The examiner will note if you use the horn when necessary, with the appropriate length of note for the hazard, or if you use it aggressively. Although a horn warning may not be necessary during the test, movement to cover the horn or reference to it during commentary may indicate that its use was considered.

Mirrors:

You will be expected to use the mirrors correctly in the correct sequence within the system but in addition you must have an accurate knowledge of what is happening behind you all the time.

Visibility:

The inside and outside of screens and windows should be clean, clear of mist and ice and swept of water so as not to inhibit your view. A candidate will not pass if owing to condensation or frost he or she peers through a small hole rubbed clear with the back of the hand. Proper use of the demisters, wipers and natural ventilation is essential.