Vehicle controls and their functions

How to use the control illustration

A vehicle control is a device the driver or rider uses to operate the vehicle, such as a steering wheel, brake or indicator switch. Instruments such as the speedometer display information; mirrors help you observe traffic. Learning their names and purposes is more useful than memorising numbers.

Tap a labelled part in the explorer to read its function. The numbers belong to this app’s diagram. An official test illustration or a different vehicle may use different numbering or place the controls differently. Match the name to the pictured device before answering a numbered question.

Explore while stationary. These illustrations are teaching schematics, not instructions to operate an unfamiliar vehicle without qualified supervision.

Key idea: Identify the pictured device by its job, then read the diagram label.

Accelerator and service brake

The accelerator controls engine power and normally sits to the right of the service-brake pedal. Pressing it requests more power; easing off reduces power, but does not make it a substitute for braking. The speedometer shows road speed, not which gear has been selected.

The service brake, normally operated by the right foot, slows or stops the moving vehicle. Apply it smoothly during ordinary slowing while keeping suitable space and observing traffic. A wet road, higher speed and a load can increase the distance needed to stop.

The parking brake has a different routine purpose: holding a stationary vehicle. Do not substitute it for the service brake in normal driving. Its location and operation vary across vehicles.

Key idea: Power control and braking are different functions; leave enough stopping space.

Clutch, gears and automatic transmission

On a conventional manual car, the pedals from left to right are clutch, brake and accelerator. The left foot operates the clutch. Pressing the clutch disconnects engine drive from the gearbox so a gear can be selected and helps prevent stalling just before a complete stop. The gear lever selects the gear ratio.

The clutch is not a brake. Avoid coasting with it held down or with neutral selected: you reduce control and do not stop the vehicle. Learn coordinated clutch, accelerator and gear use with an instructor, not by experimenting on a public road.

An automatic does not have a driver-operated clutch pedal. Its gear selector or drive-range control works differently from a manual gear lever. Select Park, Reverse, Neutral or a drive range only as the vehicle’s instructions permit. Heavy vehicles may have ranges, splitters and other model-specific controls.

Key idea: The clutch disengages drive; the lever selects the gear.

Steering, mirrors and indicators

The steering wheel changes or maintains the vehicle’s direction. Seat adjustment should let you use it and the pedals comfortably while keeping control. Do not let a passenger interfere with steering.

Interior and exterior mirrors provide different views behind and beside the vehicle. They do not show every area. Check mirrors and the relevant blind spot before a change of direction. An indicator signals intention, not priority. Recheck the available path before moving and cancel the signal afterwards.

Wipers clear the outside of the windscreen; demisting equipment clears condensation as designed. Learn these switches while parked so you do not have to search for them during poor weather.

Key idea: Observe, signal and move only when safe.

Combining controls in a real manoeuvre

A manoeuvre rarely uses only one control. To approach a bend, observe traffic, adjust speed before the bend and select a suitable gear where applicable. Then steer smoothly along the permitted path and reassess the road ahead. The indicator is used where a turn or lane change needs signalling.

To stop normally, observe, ease power and use the service brakes. Use the clutch on a manual vehicle as trained near the stop to avoid stalling, then secure the stationary vehicle where needed. A parking brake holds after stopping; it is not the ordinary means of reducing road speed.

The horn provides a safety warning, not a command that others give you priority. Equipment and control arrangements vary, so learn your actual vehicle before use.

Key idea: Understand the sequence and purpose rather than memorising a list of numbers.

Quick recap

• Accelerator or throttle: controls power.
• Service brakes: slow or stop.
• Clutch: disengages engine drive.
• Gear control: selects gear or range.
• Mirrors and direct checks: observation.
• Indicators: intention, not priority.