Vehicle Controls

Motor Vehicle Controls

You must know the function of all vehicle controls. Although the layout may differ between makes and models, their functions remain the same.

Motor vehicle controls diagram
1
Rear-view Mirror
To see traffic behind the vehicle
2
Wiper
To wipe the windscreen
3
Exterior Mirror
To see alongside and behind (one on each side)
4
Steering Wheel
To steer the vehicle in a particular direction
5
Indicator
To signal your intention to turn
6
Gear Lever
To select gears
7
Parking Brake
To hold the vehicle stationary
8
Clutch
To disengage the engine for gear change (manual only)
9
Footbrake
To reduce speed or stop
10
Accelerator
To increase or decrease speed
11
Hooter
To give a warning signal

Combining the Use of Vehicle Controls

Automatic vehicles do not have a clutch.

To Do ThisUse These ControlsRef. Numbers
Check if it is safe to manoeuvreMirrors1, 3
Indicate intention to change directionIndicator5
Turn or change directionSteering wheel4
Ensure parked vehicle remains stationaryParking brake7
Select a gearClutch and gear lever6, 8
Increase speed (accelerate)Accelerator10
Stop or reduce speed suddenlyFootbrake9
Negotiate a sharp turnRear-view mirror, exterior mirror, indicator, footbrake, clutch, gear lever, steering wheel, accelerator1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10

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Practice vehicle controls questions from the K53 test

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