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.

Control & Positioning (5-7)6 min readLast updated: May 2026

Reviewed by Chris Jackson, DVSA-approved ADILast reviewed: May 2026

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 handbrake (parking brake) holds the car stationary. On the dashboard, you will find the speedometer, rev counter, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge. Warning lights alert you to problems: a red light means stop immediately; an amber light means get the vehicle checked soon. The horn warns others of danger; windscreen wipers and washer fluid keep your view clear; demisters clear condensation from windows. Know where every control is before you move off so you never have to look away from the road to find them.

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.

What the examiner looks for

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.

Common questions about controls, instruments & dashboard

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 handbrake whenever you stop for more than a few seconds, on hills, at traffic lights, and when parking. It prevents the car from rolling and gives your feet a rest. Apply it firmly and release it fully before moving off.

What do the different dashboard warning lights mean?

Red lights indicate serious problems: stop safely immediately. Amber lights mean caution: get the car checked soon. Blue and green lights are informational, such as headlights or indicators being on. Learn all the symbols in your vehicle handbook.

How do I know which gear to use?

First gear is for pulling away and very slow speeds. Second gear is for speeds up to about 20 mph. Third for 20-30 mph, fourth for 30-40 mph, and fifth or sixth for higher speeds. Listen to the engine: if it sounds strained, change up; if it is laboured, change down.

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.

Ready to put this into practice?

These guides are a great starting point, but nothing replaces working with a DVSA-approved instructor who can give you real-time feedback.

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