PCV Daily Checks and Maintenance 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following is NOT typically part of a PCV driver's daily walk-around check?
- Checking tyre condition and pressure
- Testing the windscreen wipers and washers
- Replacing brake pads (Correct answer)
- Checking all lights are functioning
Correct answer: Replacing brake pads
Replacing brake pads is a maintenance task for qualified mechanics, not part of a driver's daily walk-around check.
A daily walk-around check is a visual and operational inspection. Replacing brake pads requires mechanical expertise and workshop facilities.
Question 2: What is the minimum legal tread depth for PCV tyres across the central three-quarters of the breadth?
- 1mm (Correct answer)
- 1.6mm
- 2mm
- 3mm
Correct answer: 1mm
The minimum legal tread depth for PCV tyres is 1mm across the central three-quarters around the entire circumference.
Under the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, the minimum tread depth for PCVs is 1mm across the central three-quarters. Many operators set higher minimums of 2-3mm.
Question 3: During your daily check, you discover a cracked windscreen that is within the driver's swept area. What should you do?
- Place tape over the crack and continue the service
- Report the defect and do not take the vehicle into service until it is repaired (Correct answer)
- Continue if the crack is less than 40mm
- Use windscreen washer fluid to prevent it spreading
Correct answer: Report the defect and do not take the vehicle into service until it is repaired
A cracked windscreen in the driver's vision zone is a serious defect that must be reported and repaired before the vehicle enters service.
Windscreen damage in the driver's swept area is a potential MOT failure and a prohibited defect if it significantly affects the driver's view. Report it immediately.
Question 4: How often must a PCV undergo an annual test (equivalent to an MOT)?
- Every 3 years
- Annually from first registration (Correct answer)
- Every 6 months
- Only when it reaches 5 years old
Correct answer: Annually from first registration
PCVs must pass an annual test every year from when they are first registered.
Unlike private cars which need their first MOT at 3 years old, PCVs must undergo an annual test from the date of first registration, conducted at DVSA testing stations.
Question 5: What is a prohibition notice in relation to a PCV?
- A notice preventing a driver from driving for health reasons
- An official notice issued by DVSA prohibiting the use of a vehicle until specified defects are rectified (Correct answer)
- A notice from the operator banning overtime
- A parking fine
Correct answer: An official notice issued by DVSA prohibiting the use of a vehicle until specified defects are rectified
A prohibition notice is issued by DVSA when a vehicle is found to have defects that make it unsafe for use.
DVSA can issue immediate prohibitions (PG9) for serious dangers, or delayed prohibitions (PG9D) for defects needing repair within a specified timeframe.
Question 6: You notice an oil leak under your bus during the morning walk-around check. What should you do?
- Top up the oil and proceed with your route
- Place cardboard under the leak and report it at the end of your shift
- Report the defect immediately and do not take the vehicle into service (Correct answer)
- Wipe it clean and check again at the next stop
Correct answer: Report the defect immediately and do not take the vehicle into service
An oil leak is a defect that must be reported immediately. The vehicle should not enter service until the source is identified and repaired.
An oil leak is serious: it could indicate mechanical failure, creates a skid hazard, and oil on hot components can cause fire. Report immediately and do not take the vehicle into service.
PCV Daily Checks and Maintenance 2
Which of the following is NOT typically part of a PCV driver's daily walk-around check?