Controls, Instruments & Dashboard
Operating the vehicle controls should become second nature. Learn the pedals, gearstick, steering wheel, indicators, and what every dashboard warning light means.
The full guide
Every control in your car serves a safety purpose. The accelerator controls speed; the brake slows or stops the vehicle; the clutch (in manual cars) disconnects the engine from the wheels for gear changes. The gearstick selects the appropriate ratio for your speed and road conditions. The steering wheel directs the vehicle, and the parking brake holds the car stationary. Dashboard warning lights differ by vehicle: use the handbook to learn what each symbol means and what action it requires. Know where the main controls are before you move off so you do not have to search for them while driving.
Many modern cars also have advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, and parking sensors. These systems can help, but they are aids — not replacements for your observations and judgement. Learn what each warning or indicator means on your dashboard: a yellow or amber ADAS symbol usually means the system is switched off or unavailable, while a red symbol may indicate a fault. Never rely on ADAS alone; always stay ready to brake, steer, and take control.
Common faults
- Not knowing where the windscreen wiper control is.
- Confusing the indicator and wiper stalks.
- Not using the demister before moving off.
- Ignoring warning lights on the dashboard.
- Holding the gearstick while driving.
- Resting your foot on the clutch pedal.
- Relying on ADAS warnings instead of checking around you.
Examiner focus
- Smooth, controlled use of all pedals.
- Correct gear selection for road speed.
- Appropriate use of secondary controls.
- Attention to dashboard warning lights.
- Correct hand position on the steering wheel.
- Confident operation without looking away from the road.
Quick tips
- Practice locating controls with your eyes closed while parked.
- Learn the wiper stalk before your first lesson in the rain.
- Never rest your hand on the gearstick — it wears the gearbox.
- Check the fuel gauge before every journey.
- Memorise the three most important warning lights: oil, battery, brakes.
- Know how to switch ADAS features on and off and what their dashboard symbols mean.
Questions learners ask
What is ADAS and how should I use it while learning?
ADAS stands for advanced driver assistance systems — features like lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control. Treat them as extra help, not a substitute for your own observations. Stay ready to take control at all times and ask your instructor how each system works in your training car.
What is the biting point and why does it matter?
The biting point is where the clutch plates begin to connect as you lift the pedal. Finding it smoothly prevents stalling and allows controlled hill starts. Practice until you can find it by feel without looking at your feet. Every car has a slightly different biting point.
When should I use the handbrake?
Use the parking brake when it is needed to keep the vehicle secure, especially when parking or where there is a risk of rolling. At a short stop, the right choice depends on the car and conditions; avoid dazzling people behind with brake lights and follow your instructor's guidance.
What do the different dashboard warning lights mean?
Warning colours are useful clues, but the required action depends on the symbol and vehicle. Check the handbook. If a warning suggests an immediate safety problem, stop in a safe place and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
How do I know which gear to use?
Choose a gear that suits the car, speed, gradient and conditions. Fixed mph-to-gear rules are unreliable because vehicles differ. Use the engine response and your instructor's guidance to change smoothly without labouring or over-revving it.
Can I fail for stalling?
Occasional stalling is not usually a serious fault if you recover safely. Repeated stalling, stalling in a dangerous position, or panicking and rolling back on a hill can lead to a fail. Stay calm, apply the handbrake, restart, and continue safely.
What is coasting and why is it dangerous?
Coasting is driving with the clutch pressed down or in neutral. It reduces your control, increases stopping distances, and removes engine braking. Always stay in gear unless changing gear or stopping. The examiner will mark coasting as a fault.
Use this guide with your instructor
Guidance cannot replace professional feedback in the car. For current road rules and test arrangements, check the Highway Code .
Fact checked
Official sources
Reviewed 4 September 2026. Use these guides alongside your instructor. They summarise general learning points and are not a substitute for the Highway Code, the official test guidance or advice for your own vehicle.