Car controls explained

 

Understanding the basic controls of the car is an essential part of learning to drive. This guide explains the key controls you’ll use during lessons and on your driving test. All photos on this page were taken inside the Driving Safe School of Motoring training vehicle to give you a clear and accurate view of what to expect.

 

1. The cockpit drill (D.S.S.S.M.)

 

Before starting the engine, you’ll complete the cockpit drill. This ensures the car is set up safely and comfortably for you.

 

Doors – Check all doors are properly closed.
Seat – Adjust your seat so you can reach the pedals comfortably.
Steering – Adjust the steering wheel if needed.
Seatbelt – Put your seatbelt on and check passengers are secure.
Mirrors – Adjust your mirrors for a clear view behind and to the sides.

 

 

View from the driver’s seat looking through the steering wheel at the dashboard controlsDriver’s view looking toward the left door mirror to check positioning and surroundings Driver’s view of reversing camera and sat nav screen while manoeuvring in a housing estate                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

 

2. Understanding the pedals (A.B.C.)


Your car has three pedals:

 

Accelerator (right)
Controls your speed. Press gently and progressively.


Brake (middle)
Slows the car down. Smooth, controlled pressure is key.


Clutch (left)
Used for changing gear, stopping smoothly, and controlling the car at low speeds.

 

 

 View looking down at the car’s foot pedals for clutch, brake and accelerator

 

 

 

3. The dashboard and warning lights

 

Your dashboard displays important information such as:

  • Speed
  • Fuel level
  • Engine temperature
  • Warning lights
  • Indicators
  • Driving status information

Some of these may appear during the "Show Me, Tell Me” questions on the driving test.

 

 

Car’s central touchscreen showing map view, vehicle settings, fuel level and media informationCar’s central display showing current driving status and vehicle information”Car’s central touchscreen displaying Android Auto with music, messages, phone options and Google Maps navigation

 

 

4. Mirrors and observation

 

Good mirror use is essential for safe driving. You’ll learn the correct routines:

 

Mirror – Signal – Manoeuvre (MSM)


and


Mirror – Signal – Position – Speed – Look (MSPSL)

 

You’ll use your mirrors for:

  • Changing direction
  • Changing lanes
  • Overtaking parked cars
  • Approaching hazards
  • Manoeuvres

 

 

     Driver’s side mirror showing the view along the right side of the carView from the driver’s seat looking toward the left door mirrorInterior rear‑view mirror with reversing camera display while manoeuvring

 

 

5. Steering controls

 

Modern cars use power steering, making it easier to control the vehicle. You’ll learn:

  • How to hold the wheel correctly
  • How to steer smoothly
  • How to control the car at low speeds
  • How to steer during manoeuvres

 

                                                     Instrument panel viewed through the steering wheel showing dashboard display and steering wheel controls

 

 

6. The centre console and control panel

 

The centre console contains important controls such as:

  • Heating and ventilation
  • Rear demister
  • Front demister
  • Hazard warning lights
  • Air conditioning
  • Radio and media controls

These may be included in the “Show Me” questions during your driving test.

 

 

                      Car’s centre console showing climate controls, media buttons and system settingsCar’s central display showing tyre pressure information for all four wheels

 

 

 

7. Sat nav and route guidance

 

Most driving tests now include following directions from a sat nav. The examiner will set the route for you.

 

You’ll learn how to:

  • Follow sat nav instructions safely during your practical driving test
  • Avoid staring at the screen
  • Maintain lane discipline
  • Prioritise road signs over the sat nav if needed

 

                      Car’s sat nav full screenCar’s central touchscreen displaying Android Auto with Google Maps showing the car’s location and music currently playing”

 

 

8. Handbrake and gear lever

 

You’ll learn how to use:

 

Handbrake
Used for securing the car when parked, during hill starts, and in some manoeuvres.

 

Gear lever
Used to select the correct gear for speed and road conditions. You’ll learn smooth gear changes and clutch control.

 

                                        Car’s centre console showing the handbrake and gear lever

 

 

 

 

9. Indicators and signal control

 

Indicators are used to show other road users what you intend to do. You’ll learn:

  • When to signal
  • When not to signal
  • How to avoid signalling too early or too late
  • How to cancel signals correctly

 

                 Indicator stalk showing headlight controls for main beam, dipped beam, auto lights and fog lightsWindscreen wiper stalk showing front and rear wiper and washer controlsCar’s start button and electronic steering assistance controls on the dashboard

 

 

 

10. Show Me, Tell Me questions


During your driving test, the examiner will ask:


• One “Tell Me” question before you start driving
• One “Show Me” question while you’re driving


These may include:


• How to check headlights
• How to use the demisters
• How to wash the windscreen
• How to check tyre pressures
• How to check the brakes

 

 

11. Learn with a fully equipped training vehicle

 

The Driving Safe School of Motoring training car is fitted with:

  • Dual controls
  • Clear dashboard layout
  • Modern safety features
  • Sat nav for test preparation
  • Comfortable seating and visibility

This ensures learners feel confident and supported from their very first lesson.