Gents, it’s not what you’re thinking it is right now! The cockpit drill is the initial checks you should carry out before even turning the key in the ignition. In part one, Book Theory Test Today guides you through some aspects of the drill.
Book Theory Test Today says: “The cockpit drill is the very first thing you will learn when getting into a car for your first driving lesson. The faster you learn the cockpit drill, the less time your instructor will need to teach you, giving you more time to actually drive.â€
Your step-by-step guide to the cockpit drill
The cockpit drill applies to all makes and models of car. However, the controls for each car will vary, for example, in some cars adjusting the side mirrors in some vehicles will need to be done manually, whereas mirrors in other vehicles will be controlled electronically. But don’t worry, your instructor will run through the car’s controls with you before you start.
DSSSM
The cockpit drill requires you to follow the DSSSM checklist, DSSSM being Doors, Seats, Steering, Seat belt and Mirrors. It’s abbreviated to DSSSM to help learners digest the cockpit drill quickly.
Step One – Doors – What needs to be checked?
Daft as it sounds, you should check that all doors are closed. Even if a door is slightly ajar because a seat belt is caught in it for example, it could fly open when you’re driving.
Check – The driver side door – That’s your door. Be sure to pull it shut firmly before starting to drive. In most modern cars, if any door is not shut correctly, a warning indicator will inform you that a door needs your attention.
When opening, make sure you check your surroundings prior to opening to avoid hitting a pedestrian or cyclist.
Check – Passenger doors – To check rear passenger doors use your internal mirror and side mirrors. If closed correctly, externally, the doors should be flush to the side of the car. For the front passenger door, simply ask your instructor to check that it’s shut.
Check – During your driving test – When the time comes to take your DVSA practical test, should you fail to shut a door correctly the exam invigilator will ask you to check the doors. Should you pull off and a door is not closed properly, pull over in a safe, legal place and secure the door.
Step Two – Your Seat – What needs to be checked?
You need to check that it’s adjusted to settings that suit you. When correctly positioned you should be able to reach the foot pedals comfortably. If you’re driving a manual car, locate the foot pedal on your left – the clutch.
Using the ball of your foot press it down until it stops. Grip the steering wheel with your left hand, then using your right hand locate the seat lever [usually beneath the front of the seat].
Slide your seat back and forth until there’s a slight bend in your knee with your left leg. This will be the ideal seat setting that will allow you to comfortably operate the foot pedals. Â
That concludes part one of the cockpit drill. Tune in soon for part two where Book Theory Test Today will talk you through steering wheel checks.
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