Saturday 29 December 2012

The WINNERS of the Driving on-line courses are.

The WINNERS of the on-line driving courses are:
Roseanna Tansley and Ann-Marie Gladding. Congratulations to you both, I will In box you both the details of the course and the voucher code. Enjoy the courses and let me know how you are getting on.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Travis-School-of-Motoring/162500747104343?fref=ts

Wednesday 26 December 2012

WIN A ON-LINE DRIVER COURSE

New Year is coming. Win a on-line driver course.

To celebrate the end of 2012 and to start 2013 with a smile, I will be giving away two on-line learner driver courses. 
The two lucky followers of my Facebook posts http://www.facebook.com/pages/Travis-School-of-Motoring/162500747104343 will be picked out at random. 

T&C:
1. You have to like the Win a on-line course post to be entered into the draw.
2. This draw is open to anyone 16 years or older and living in the UK.
3. You have to like the Facebook page.
3. The draw will take place on New Years Eve.
4. The winners will be displayed on New Years Eve.

The link below shows the on-line course
www.driveractive.com

Thursday 20 December 2012

Show Me / Tell Me Q & A for driving test

Part of your test includes a Show me, Tell Me' section. This is when your examiner will ask you one 'Show me' and one 'Tell me' question about general maintenance and safety checks on your car.


Tell Me Questions
Q1.Tell me how you would check the brakes are working before starting a journey
A1.Brakes should be tested as you set off by applying gentle pressure at slow speed. Brakes should not feel spongy or slack and the vehicle should not pull to one side.
Q2.Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked
A2.In the manufacturerʼs guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, donʼt forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.
Q3.Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road
A3.No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3⁄4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.
Q4.Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash
A4.Adjust the rigid part of the restraint so that it is close to the back of your head and level with your eyes or top of your ears
Q5.Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working? (no need to exit the vehicle)
A5.Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), get somebody to walk round vehicle.
Q6.Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system
A6.The ABS warning light would become illuminated on the instrument panel if there is a fault
Q7.Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil
A7.Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/ maximum markers
Q8.Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid
A8.Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.
Q9.Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level
A9.Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
Q10.Open the bonnet, identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level
A10.Identify reservoir and explain how the washer fluid should be filled to a level between the min and max markers on the side of the reservoir or where there is no min/max marker to keep it topped up regularly.
Show Me Questions
Q11.Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey
A11.If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.
Q12.Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear, make sure you keep control of the vehicle
A12.Apply footbrake firmly, Demonstrate by applying parking brake so that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.
Q13.Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only)
A13.Check is carried out by pressing gently on the control (turn on ignition if necessary)
Q14.Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working
A14.Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.
Q15.Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please donʼt start the engine)
A15.Switch ignition on, operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors etc, ask someone to help.
Q16.Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washers and wipers
A16.Operate windscreen washer control button and then activate the windscreen wipers (turn on ignition if necessary).
Q17.Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens
A17.Set all relevant controls including air vents at both sides to point towards the side windows, use the control switch to direct hot air onto the windscreen then operate the fan, press the heated rear screen switch to clear the rear window
Q18.Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it /them (no need to exit the vehicle)
A18.Operate the rear fog switch after switching on dipped headlights check switch is illuminated and explain that they should only be used when visibility is reduced to 100 metres or less
Q19.Show me how you would switch on your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car
A19.Move the stalk attached to the steering column forwards which will illuminate a blue warning light on the instrument panel

Wednesday 19 December 2012

Driving test cancelled because of bad weather?


Test cancellations because of bad weather
A new appointment date will usually be sent to candidates within 3 working days if their test is cancelled due to bad weather.
This could takeup to 7 days when the bad weather goes on for longer. Candidates won’t be able to claim for any out-of-pocket expenses.
Further information can be found on GOV.UK (http://bit.ly/DSA-30).

Be prepared for winter driving


Be prepared’ for winter
Highways Agency has launched its ‘Make Time for Winter’ website (http://bit.ly/DSA-23), to help drivers be properly prepared for winter. It features useful advice on preparing your vehicle for winter driving and where to find out about weather and road conditions.

Independent Driving on the Driving Test.

The driving test consists of 10 minutes of Independent driving. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXd6npRMyFI
The Video from the DSA shows you what is expected.  Don't worry about it for your driving instructor will teach you all you need to know to cope with independent driving.

The Driving Theory Test.

The Theory Test
The first part of the Theory Test consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Each question has 4 possible answers of which only 1 is correct.

You are allowed 57 minutes to complete the test in which you must correctly answer 43 questions out of 50 to pass.

The Hazard Perception section of the test is made up of 14 hazard video clips.

You have 15 hazards to spot. Once you have found each hazard you must click on the mouse. You will need to score 44 or more out of 75 to pass.

You will need to pass both the theory questions and the hazard perception section of the test at the same sitting to pass.

You CANNOT book your Practical driving test UNTIL you have passed the theory test and hazard perception test.

You can try out some FREE theory test to see if you are ready. Follow the link pagewww.travis-drive.co.uk

Tuesday 18 December 2012

Rudolph Car


Turn your car into your very own Rudolph

As much as we’d all love our very own sleigh to cruise around in this winter, we can’t all be as cool as Santa. Luckily for you, though, we’ve found the next best thing: reindeer antlers and a nose for your car! That’s right, you can create your very own rudolph with a couple of simple accessories. Just make sure you take them off after Christmas, because that could get really embarrassing.
Image via ï£¿koroshiya@Flickr

Visiting the driving test centre.

Was at the driving test centre this afternoon in Bletchley. Not taking the driving test, but showing one of my pupils the test centre who has the test in February. It is good to know what the test centre is like, the size of the car park. Also seeing other people taking the test. It is what you have been working for all these months so it makes sense to visit it first.
If we have not talked about you visiting the test centre then ask me next time I see you.
www.travis-drive.co.uk

Monday 17 December 2012

Driving at Christmas

Christmas week driving.
If this is your first Christmas as a driver then a couple things you need to take into account.
1. The traffic leading up to Christmas Eve will get busy, like Saturday at rush hour, so be careful.
2. The car parks will get full, so be prepared to drive around slowly and watch out for more children running out in between cars.
3. More white vans on the road cutting in. 
Keep your distance.
4. More traffic accidents on the roads, so give yourself plenty of time to get from A to B.
5. Watch out for Santa. Yes you will see one, but everyone else will slow down so the kids in the car can see. Watch you don't drive into the back of the car in front.
Hope these tips help you to drive safe at Christmas.


Sunday 16 December 2012

Do you understand traffic signs?

Understanding Traffic Signs and Their Meanings...

If you are you confused by the many different traffic signs in the UK, this is the website for you. Even for experienced drivers, getting your head around all of the traffic signs, traffic signals and road markings, and what exactly they are instructing you to do can be bewildering.
http://www.trafficsignsandmeanings.co.uk/

Friday 14 December 2012

Driving Test Manoeuvres.

I always get asked by my pupils will I get the Bay park or left reverse on my driving test. The answer is I don't know. All I can is prepare you to pass all four. I have listed the last ten driving tests and the manoeuvres that my pupil got.
1. Left Reverse.
2. Turn in the road.
3. Left Reverse.
4. Reverse Parking.
5. Bay parking.
6. Left Reverse.
7. Bay Parking.
8. Bay Parking.
9. Turn in the
 road.
10. Reverse Parking.

As with all manoeuvres you should have good observations before and during. Keep the speed slow and have good control of the car.


Thursday 13 December 2012

Driving in snow


Basic driving technique

Cars in the snowWhen moving off in snow and ice use the highest gear possible - this will usually be second. If you encounter wheel-spin, ease off the gas, otherwise you will simply 'polish' the snow and ice, making it more slippery. 'Rock' the car back and forth to get it moving (clutch up and down).
Sacks under the rear wheels can help the tyres to grip. If you tie them to the 'tow ring' you can pull them along, that way you don't lose them! 
Once you are moving, keep your speed down and use the highest practical gear. Gentle use of all controls is essential.
Although we all consider ourselves to be expert, smooth drivers, it is not always the case.
You might spend some time on an icy car park to improve your finesse, but be careful not to upset the local council or police.www.driveractive.com

Driving up hills in snow


Hills

Hills in snowClimbing hills can pose particular problems on slippery roads.
Always leave plenty of space between yourself and the car ahead before starting your ascent. Stop and wait for a clear road if necessary, otherwise you may end up being stuck (literally) behind less skilful drivers. 
For short hills you may consider reversing up in front-wheel-drive vehicles - this way the driving wheels will carry more weight and have more 
grip. Zig-zagging can also help your wheels to grip.
Use low gears to help hold you back when descending slippery hills. Select the gear as early as possible.
Try to avoid using the brakes or changing gear while descending.

Driving Test Pass Rates.


The national average pass rate, for males is 49.1% and for females 42.8%. For pass rates relating to test centres with postcodes N to Z. 

Tuesday 11 December 2012

Driving in Fog

The fog stayed all day. It was challenging for my pupils to change the way you drive. Not trying to get to the speed limit and giving yourself more time to emerge. 
I still noticed cars this afternoon with either no fog lights on or even no lights on. The fog always catches motorists out, they try and drive as though it is a normal day.
It is better to drive a bit slower and get home safe and sound.
www.travis-drive.co.uk
James

Monday 10 December 2012

Are you ready for the driving test?

Are you ready for your driving test?  If you live in Milton Keynes and Buckingham and are thinking about your driving test.  Then ask me for an assessment,  I will give you a mock test to see if you are ready to take your driving test. www.travis-drive.co.uk
Contact me via my contact page.

look forward to hearing from you

James@ Travis School of Motoring

Friday 7 December 2012

Britain's Scariest Roads

OK, so let's get one thing straight before we start. Britain's road network is one of the safest in the world. But sometimes, a little bit of adrenalin when we're driving is a tiny bit enjoyable. There's an exhilaration to negotiating a hairpin bend on a steep mountainside, crossing a bridge high over the swirling waters of a great river ... or even negotiating a tricky motorway junction or travelling along a notoriously haunted road on a dark winter's night.

Bearing in mind that Britain has been consistently in the top five for safety since 2000, and rates of serious accidents have been falling for 30 years now, we've selected some of our favourite scary drives around the country. Tell us below if you have any you think we should add... but most important of all, drive safely.

http://travel.aol.co.uk/2012/12/02/britains-scariest-roads-for-driving/#photo-6

DSA opening hours: Christmas and New Year

DSA opening hours: Christmas and New Year

Are you the Christmas Driver?

Are you the designated driver this Christmas http://www.coca-cola.co.uk/designated-driver Find out which pub to claim your FREE drinks at.

Enjoy Christmas www.travis-drive.co.uk 

Safe Driving

The Perfect Christmas Gift.


Tuesday 4 December 2012

Young Driver Car Insurance

I have found this website that some of my pupils have used to get car insurance at a good price. http://www.ikubeinsurance.com/PPC_Learners_86-5-1963A?gclid=CLPUvaSn_rMCFW3MtAoduVMAjQ
It is worth a look to get a quote.
If you have no luck then I have more links on my website www.travis-drive.co.uk

I hope you manage to get sorted.

10 hours of driving lessons £180

In December I am offering 10 hours of driving lessons for only £180.  Saving you £40 off the original price.  Check out my prices www.travis-drive.co.uk
This offer is for pupils based in the Milton Keynes  and surrounding area.

Monday 3 December 2012

Flashing Blue Lights

You are driving along the road and in your rear view mirror you see a police car speeding towards you with the blue lights flashing.  What should you do?
Watch this video to find out  http://www.bluelightaware.org.uk

Wednesday 28 November 2012

Another test pass

Yes another theory rest pass.  Congratulations to Chris Hallam on passing the theory driving test.

Tuesday 27 November 2012

Travis School of Motoring: THEORY TEST PASSED..

Travis School of Motoring: THEORY TEST PASSED..: Congratulations to Nikki Choong on passing the theory test first time today.  See you on the next lesson  when we can plan the practical tes...

THEORY TEST PASSED..

Congratulations to Nikki Choong on passing the theory test first time today.  See you on the next lesson  when we can plan the practical test  www.travis-drive.co.uk
James

Monday 26 November 2012

You passed the driving test. Well done

Congratulations to Jack Arnold on passing his driving test today first time and with only 6 minors.

All the hard work has paid of, well done.
www.travis-drive.co.uk

Monday 19 November 2012

Only 3 minors. Driving test pass

Congratulations to Saroj Gurav on passing the practical driving test today with only 3 minors.


Find out more on my website www.travis-drive.co.uk

FAQ about the driving test 2

FAQ from my pupil about driving tests.


Q 2. My friend had two examiners - is that fair?
A. A senior DSA examiner sometimes sits in the back to ensure that the examiners are doing their job properly and not failing people who should pass - this ensures a fair test for everyone.

Sunday 18 November 2012

FAQ about the driving test 1.The driving test report form.


Q. How are my mistakes marked?

A. The examiner will keep track of your drive on a form (Driving Test Report). The form lists a number of items that relate to your control of the car, its equipment and your procedure on the road. There are three categories of mistake that can be recorded. 1. Dangerous faults: these are marked if your actions actually cause da
nger. 2. Serious faults: these are faults that could be dangerous in a different set of circumstances or are habitual errors that are potentially dangerous. 3. Driving faults: these are less serious errors that detract from 'perfect drive'. A single dangerous or serious fault will lead to test failure. You are currently permitted a maximum of 15 less serious 'Driving faults' although it is unlikely you will make anywhere near that many.

Friday 16 November 2012

You passed the Theory Test..

Congratulations to Benjy Sculock on passing the theory test first time.  All the preparation paid off.  See you in Winslow for your next lesson.

James www.travis-drive.co.uk

Tuesday 13 November 2012

Try the test simulator for stopping distance


Try the test simulator http://www.stoppingdistances.org.uk to see the difference on stopping distances.

Booking the Driving Theory Test

Are you ready for the theory test?  If the answer is yes then lets book it.
Follow this link https://www.gov.uk/book-a-driving-theory-test it will take you straight to the DSA website.  It costs £31 to book, no more.
If you want any advise on the theory or practical test then I am only too happy to help.
You can contact me via my blog
Or my website www.travis-drive.co.uk
or just phone me 07747742842

Good luck with your test
James@Travis School of Motoring





Sunday 11 November 2012

Highly Sought After Driving Instructor in Milton Keynes

You can find James www.travis-drive.co.uk  one of the most highly sought after instructors in the area, I am offering 10 hours for only £175 which I find very good value for money in the present economical climate. I offer manual driving lessons in and around Milton Keynes and Buckingham, pupils will drive a lovely Honda Jazz that is very easy and relaxing to drive. so for more details contact me direct on 07747742842.

Driving Instructors in Milton keynes and Buckingham

If you are looking to find a driving instructor in Milton Keynes and Buckingham and can not make your mind up then check out the website of Milton keynes Approved Drivers Instructors Association http://www.mkadia.co.uk

I am a member of the Association they have male and female members.  You could also check out my website www.travis-drive.co.uk It contains photos and testimonials of past pupils.

James




My Driving School Car.. Honda Jazz ES


Manual tuition car

I am currently using a black 2012 1.4 Honda Jazz ES as my Manual training vehicle
Specifications Include:
  • Power Assisted Steering
  • Air Conditioning
  • Anti-lock Braking System
  • Dual Controls
  • Electric Windows
  • Adjustable Seat and Steering Wheel
  • Spacious Interior
  • Dual Air Bags
  • Easy to Read Dash Board
  • Rear Fog Lights
  • Petrol Engine



If you would like more details about the car or would like an assessment lesson to see if it is suitable for you then please feel free to "contact me." www.travis-drive.co.uk
 

Saturday 10 November 2012

Which Manoeuvre will I get on my driving test?


I get asked by every pupil. Which manoeuvre will I get on my driving test?  "I don't know,  1 in 4 of the manoeuvres".
I asked an examiner if he favours one manoeuvre over another. The answer was that he shares them out equally.

This is my last ten driving tests that my pupils took and the manoeuvres that they got. Starting with my last one first.
1 Bay park (at the end of the test) difficult.
2 Bay park ( at the start of the test ) confidence booster if you get it right.
3 Left Reverse.
4 Turn in the road. Has been known to catch you out
5 Turn in the road
6 Reverse Park
7 Left Reverse
8 Turn in the road
9 Bay park ( at the start of the test)
10 Left Reverse
Hope this helps
James

Driving after a month break

While learning to drive it is important to keep taking regular lessons, but if you have to take a break, then the thought of starting back can be off putting.

The longer you leave your training the more you will forget.  The important thing to remember is your driving instructor will be more than happy to restart your training.

So don't delay and make that week become a month then a year.  Get on the phone and contact your instructor.
www.travis-drive.co.uk

Friday 9 November 2012

Driving Lessons Special Offer

For a limited time only I am reducing the price of block booking 10 hours from £220 to
                                                       
                                                     ONLY £175.00 for 10 hours.
Yes that's right saving you £45.
Hurry this offer will stop when I have replaced my four pupils who have passed over the last week.

www.travis-drive.co.uk
Check out my website for the T&C.

Look forward to teaching you
James

Driving on Roundabouts

Well done to Katie Roberts on learning roundabouts in Milton Keynes for the first time.  I am sure that you will soon be confident and completing them on your own by the next lesson.

Safe Driving For Life
www.travis-drive.co.uk

Great Driving Lesson

Well done to Adam Edwards on his driving lesson today.  It was his second lesson and he was completing left and right turns with ease.  Keep up the progress.

View my photo gallery of passed pupils and check out my tips.
www.travis-drive.co.uk

Well done passed first time

Congratulations to Steph White who passed the driving test first time and with only 4 minors.

Looking forward to seeing you driving around Buckingham.

Safe driving for life.
www.travis-drive.co.uk

Thursday 8 November 2012

I passed my driving test first time.


Well done to Rick Rodgers who passed his practical driving test today.  He passed first time and with only 5 minors.


Safe driving for life.
James@Travis School of Motoring
www.travis-drive.co.uk

Wednesday 7 November 2012

You passed the driving test

Congratulations to Bhaskar Rajanala on passing the practical driving test today.  Well done, all the hard work has paid off.
Enjoy your driving in Milton Keynes.



Safe Driving for Life.
James@Travis School of Motoring
www.travis-drive.co.uk


Tuesday 6 November 2012

Your First Driving Lesson

It can be a bit nervy waiting for your driving instructor to turn up and knock on your front door for the first time.  Then comes the time when your instructor asks you to start the car for the first time.  In your head you are thinking about what he/she has asked you to do and you are saying to yourself "I hope I don't make a fool of myself".
Trust me when I say this.  Don't worry yourself.  Your instructor has seen all the mistakes before with other pupils.  I always tell my pupils to ask questions, as many as they feel they need.  If they do not understand what I am asking or explaining then ask to repeat it.
You will soon get use to the idea of driving, then you will enjoy it more.

Good luck on your first lesson.

James@ Travis School of Motoring
www.drive-travis.co.uk


3 Driving Test passes in 7 days


Congratulations to Steve Doherty,  Alex Abbott and Oscar Hails.  

All three pupils passed the practical driving test in the same week.  

All from Travis School of Motoring.
www.travis-drive.co.uk

Well done

Safe Driving for Life

Preparing your car for winter


Preparing your vehicle
You passed the driving test in summer and this is your first winter as a driving.
A pre-winter check or service is essential if you want to avoid problems during the winter. I have listed some of the items you should pay attention to:

Cooling System:

Most cooling systems specify that anti-freeze should be used all year round as a corrosion inhibitor, however it is a good idea to check the strength of the coolant at the start of the winter. How are your hoses? If your car is more than a couple of years old check for perished hoses and minor leaks.

Ignition system:

Electronic ignition is now fitted to many vehicles, however, damp can still cause problems. Make sure that all ignition circuit contacts are clean and spray the system with an ignition sealer (moisture repellent).

Check that your battery is topped up and healthy ... Be kind to your battery in winter by minimising the load placed on it ...

Don't over use the starter motor, short bursts with long pauses between ... Switch off all auxiliary equipment when starting the car ... Switch of the screen de-misters when the windows are clear ... And so on ...

Air intake:

Check to see if your air intake has a winter position, if so, make the appropriate adjustment.

Tyres:

Trying to squeeze the last five-hundred miles out of a set of tyres can be counter-productive in winter. You want as much grip as possible when the snow comes (at least 3mm of tread). Plus, of course, changing a tyre in the snow is no fun!

Lights:

You should carry a spare set of light bulbs all year round (police patrol officers love to stop vehicles with defective lights!), however, this is probably more important in winter when your lights are getting extra use. Make sure that you have wash leathers and/or rags to keep your lights clean in the winter (snow can build up around lights, check to ensure that they are clear and clean as often as possible).

Brakes:

It may seem obvious to state that brakes should be in good order, however, your wheels will lock earlier on ice than in other situations and so even the slightest problems (with wheel cylinders, etc.) can cause major skids in winter.

Windscreen washers:

These are less likely to freeze up if the system is clean. Keep a supply of screen-wash additive in the car, this prevents the washer-bottle contents from freezing. Don't use engine anti-freeze in screen washers, apart from smearing your screen it may well strip your paintwork!

Wiper blades:

These will have to work harder in winter so make sure that they are in good condition (well used wiper blades rarely last more than 12 months in our climate).

Visit my website  www.travis-drive.co.uk
James@Travis School of Motoring
Safe Driving For Life

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