19 Sep Car Controls Explained
Car Controls Explained: A Guide for Learner Drivers
Learn what the main car controls do, where to find them and how they work together when you start learning to drive.
Before you can drive confidently, you need to understand the controls in the vehicle you are using.
That includes more than the steering wheel, pedals and gear lever.
You should also know how to use:
- mirrors;
- indicators;
- lights;
- wipers and washers;
- demisters;
- the horn;
- parking brake;
- dashboard instruments;
- warning lights;
- heating and ventilation; and
- other controls fitted to your particular car.
The exact position and design of controls varies between vehicles, so always learn the car you are actually driving.
The Main Car Controls at a Glance
Most cars include the following basic controls:
- steering wheel;
- accelerator;
- brake pedal;
- clutch pedal in a manual car;
- gear lever or gear selector;
- parking brake;
- indicators;
- headlights;
- wipers and washers;
- horn;
- heating and ventilation;
- front and rear demisters;
- electric windows;
- mirrors;
- dashboard instruments; and
- warning lights.
Some modern vehicles also include driver-assistance controls such as cruise control, speed limiters, parking sensors and lane-assistance systems.
The Steering Wheel
The steering wheel controls the direction of the front wheels.
Your aim is to steer:
- smoothly;
- accurately;
- without unnecessary movement;
- while maintaining full control; and
- without allowing other controls to distract you.
There is no need to become obsessed with one exact hand position at all times.
The important thing is that you hold and operate the steering wheel in a way that gives you proper control of the vehicle.
Modern steering wheels may also contain controls for:
- audio;
- phone functions;
- cruise control;
- speed limiter;
- driver information displays; and
- the horn.
The Pedals in a Manual Car
A manual car normally has three pedals.
From left to right they are:
- Clutch
- Brake
- Accelerator
Clutch pedal
The clutch connects and disconnects the engine from the driven wheels through the transmission.
You use it when:
- moving off;
- changing gear;
- stopping;
- controlling the car at very low speed; and
- preventing the engine from stalling where appropriate.
Brake pedal
The brake pedal slows or stops the vehicle.
Use it progressively and smoothly where possible, adjusting the pressure according to the road and traffic situation.
Accelerator
The accelerator controls the power delivered by the engine.
Small movements are normally enough during ordinary driving. Smooth accelerator use helps with comfort, control and fuel efficiency.
Pedals in an Automatic Car
An automatic car normally has two pedals:
- brake; and
- accelerator.
There is no clutch pedal for the driver to operate.
Automatic cars simplify gear operation, but the learner still needs to develop the same core skills in:
- observation;
- planning;
- speed choice;
- road position;
- junction judgement; and
- hazard awareness.
Fast Pass currently provides direct manual tuition.
The Manual Gear Lever
A manual gearbox allows you to select different gears according to the vehicle’s speed, load and road conditions.
A typical manual car may have:
- first gear;
- second gear;
- third gear;
- fourth gear;
- fifth gear;
- sometimes sixth gear; and
- reverse.
The exact pattern is normally marked on top of the gear lever.
When learning, become familiar with the pattern while the vehicle is stationary and secured.
You should eventually be able to select gears without looking down for long periods, because your main attention needs to remain on the road.
Automatic Gear Selectors
Automatic vehicles often use positions such as:
- P – Park;
- R – Reverse;
- N – Neutral; and
- D – Drive.
Some cars have additional modes for:
- manual gear selection;
- sport driving;
- economy driving;
- low-speed control; or
- regenerative braking in electric vehicles.
Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for the vehicle you are using.
The Parking Brake
The parking brake helps secure the vehicle when stationary.
Depending on the car, it may be:
- a traditional hand-operated lever;
- a foot-operated parking brake; or
- an electronic parking-brake switch.
It can be particularly useful when:
- parking;
- waiting for a longer period;
- stopped on a gradient; or
- you need to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
The important principle is to keep the vehicle securely under control rather than follow one rigid routine in every situation.
The Mirrors
Most cars have:
- an interior rear-view mirror;
- a left exterior mirror; and
- a right exterior mirror.
Adjust them before driving so that you have the best practical view behind and alongside the vehicle.
Remember that mirrors do not show everything.
Blind spots still need direct observation where appropriate, particularly before moving away or changing position.
The Highway Code advises drivers to ensure their mirrors and seat are adjusted correctly before setting off.
Indicators
Indicators communicate your intention to other road users.
The control is usually a stalk beside the steering wheel.
Indicators may be used when appropriate before:
- turning;
- changing lane;
- moving away;
- pulling in;
- leaving some roundabouts; and
- other changes of direction or position.
A signal should help other road users understand what you intend to do.
Do not assume that signalling gives you priority. You still need to make proper observations and ensure the manoeuvre is safe.
Headlights and Other Lights
Depending on the vehicle, lighting controls can include:
- sidelights;
- dipped headlights;
- main beam;
- rear fog lights;
- front fog lights where fitted;
- hazard-warning lights; and
- automatic-light settings.
Learn:
- where each control is;
- what dashboard symbol appears;
- when the light should be used; and
- when it needs to be switched off.
Do not rely completely on automatic headlights. The driver remains responsible for using the correct lighting for the conditions.
Windscreen Wipers and Washers
Wipers and washers help keep your view clear.
Controls may include:
- single wipe;
- intermittent wipe;
- normal-speed wipe;
- high-speed wipe;
- front washer;
- rear wiper; and
- rear washer.
Some cars have automatic rain-sensing wipers.
Even when automatic systems are fitted, you should know how to operate the controls manually.
Front and Rear Demisters
Demisters help maintain a clear view when windows mist or fog.
Front windscreen
The front windscreen is normally cleared using the heating, ventilation or climate-control system.
Many cars include a dedicated front-demist setting.
Rear window
The rear window commonly uses an electrically heated screen.
The rear-demister symbol usually resembles a rectangular window with rising or wavy lines.
You should know how to use both systems before driving in poor weather.
Heating, Ventilation and Climate Control
These controls are not just about comfort.
They help you:
- maintain a clear windscreen;
- reduce misting;
- control temperature;
- direct airflow; and
- maintain concentration in uncomfortable conditions.
Controls vary considerably between vehicles, especially where modern cars use touchscreens instead of physical switches.
Learn how to operate essential functions without becoming distracted.
The Horn
The horn is an audible warning device.
Its purpose is to warn other road users of your presence where necessary.
It should not be used simply to express frustration or anger.
Most cars operate the horn by pressing an area in the centre of the steering wheel.
The Dashboard
The dashboard provides information about the vehicle while you drive.
Depending on the car, it may display:
- speed;
- engine speed;
- fuel level;
- battery charge;
- engine temperature;
- gear selection;
- indicator operation;
- lighting status;
- driver-assistance information;
- trip information; and
- warning messages.
Some newer vehicles use a fully digital instrument display rather than traditional gauges.
Dashboard Warning Lights
Warning lights tell you about vehicle systems and possible faults.
Common examples include:
- oil-pressure warning;
- battery or charging-system warning;
- engine-management warning;
- brake-system warning;
- ABS warning;
- airbag warning;
- tyre-pressure warning;
- coolant-temperature warning; and
- seat-belt warning.
The meaning and urgency of individual lights varies.
Use the vehicle handbook or manufacturer’s information to understand the warning lights fitted to your car.
Do not ignore a warning that indicates a safety or mechanical problem.
The Speedometer
The speedometer shows how fast the vehicle is travelling.
You need to use it alongside:
- road signs;
- your view of the road;
- traffic conditions;
- weather;
- hazards; and
- your judgement of an appropriate speed.
Do not stare at the speedometer. Use brief checks while keeping your main attention on the road.
The Rev Counter
A rev counter, or tachometer, shows engine speed in revolutions per minute.
It can help a learner understand when the engine is:
- working too slowly for the selected gear;
- revving unnecessarily high; or
- approaching a suitable point for a gear change.
You should gradually learn to judge appropriate gears using the sound and feel of the vehicle as well as instruments.
Electric Windows and Door Controls
Modern cars usually use electric window switches.
Know how to:
- open and close the driver’s window;
- operate other windows if required;
- use window-lock controls where fitted; and
- operate door locks where necessary.
The side-window control is also one of the controls that can be used for a Show Me question during the practical test.
Driver-Assistance Controls
Modern cars may include systems such as:
- cruise control;
- speed limiter;
- lane assistance;
- parking sensors;
- parking cameras;
- automatic emergency braking;
- automatic lights;
- automatic wipers; and
- sat-nav systems.
These systems can assist the driver, but they do not remove your responsibility to observe properly and control the vehicle.
DVSA’s national driving standard specifically expects drivers to understand when driver-assistance systems may need to be overridden or disabled and not to rely blindly on sat-nav or other aids.
Adjust Your Controls Before Moving Off
Before setting off, make sure you are comfortable and can operate the vehicle properly.
Check:
- seat position;
- seat-back angle;
- head restraint;
- steering-wheel position where adjustable;
- interior mirror;
- exterior mirrors;
- seat belt;
- foot position on the pedals; and
- that you know where the important controls are.
The Highway Code advises drivers to make these preparations before setting off. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Do Not Let the Controls Distract You
Knowing where the controls are matters because searching for switches while driving can distract you from the road.
Learn frequently used controls well enough that you can operate them with only brief glances where necessary.
This is particularly important for:
- wipers;
- washers;
- lights;
- demisters;
- windows;
- heating controls; and
- other controls you may need while moving.
DVSA’s driving standard specifically includes being able to operate controls without becoming distracted or losing control of the vehicle. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Car Controls and the Show Me, Tell Me Questions
Several vehicle controls are directly relevant to the practical driving test.
You may need to know how to operate or identify:
- front windscreen washers;
- rear windscreen washers;
- dipped headlights;
- rear demister;
- front demister;
- horn;
- side window;
- fog lights;
- main beam;
- ABS warning light; and
- under-bonnet safety checks.
Car Controls on Your First Driving Lesson
A first lesson commonly includes time getting familiar with the vehicle before you begin driving.
Your instructor may explain:
- seat adjustment;
- mirrors;
- steering;
- pedals;
- gear lever;
- parking brake;
- indicators;
- basic dashboard instruments; and
- how to move off and stop safely.
Car Controls FAQs
What are the three pedals in a manual car?
From left to right they are the clutch, brake and accelerator.
What pedals does an automatic car have?
An automatic normally has a brake pedal and accelerator. There is no clutch pedal for the driver to operate.
What does the clutch do?
The clutch allows the engine and transmission to be connected and disconnected so that you can move away, stop and change gear smoothly in a manual car.
What is the parking brake for?
It helps secure the vehicle when stationary. It may be a traditional handbrake lever, foot control or electronic switch depending on the vehicle.
Should I look at the gear lever when changing gear?
When first learning you may need some familiarisation, but you should aim to select gears without taking your attention away from the road for unnecessary periods.
What are dashboard warning lights?
They indicate the status of vehicle systems and possible faults. You should learn the important warning symbols in the vehicle you use.
Do all cars have the same controls?
No. The purpose of many controls is similar, but their position, appearance and operation varies between vehicles.
Do I need to know car controls for the driving test?
Yes. You must be able to control the vehicle safely, and some controls are also directly tested through the Show Me, Tell Me vehicle-safety questions.
Learn the Controls Before They Become a Distraction
The more familiar you are with the vehicle, the more attention you can give to observations, planning and safe driving.
