FTT foundations
FTT Vehicle Controls, Mirrors, and Setup Guide
A guide to seating, mirrors, steering, pedals, controls, moving off, and why setup affects observation and vehicle control.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026. Handbook baseline: 5-39.
Set seat and mirrors before moving off.
Use mirrors and blind-spot checks before changing speed or direction.
Understand controls before applying them under traffic pressure.
Study cue
vehicle controls, cockpit setup, and moving off
Remember
Set seat and mirrors before moving off.
Remember
Use mirrors and blind-spot checks before changing speed or direction.
Remember
Understand controls before applying them under traffic pressure.
Setup affects safety
Seat and mirror position are not comfort details only. They affect steering control, pedal reach, mirror coverage, and blind-spot awareness. Practical theory expects the driver to prepare the vehicle before joining traffic.
Adjust seating for control and visibility.
Adjust mirrors before moving off.
Do not adjust major controls while moving if it distracts from driving.
Controls should be understood before use
FTT moves beyond BTT by testing practical decisions. You need to understand what a control does, when to use it, and how misuse can affect other road users.
Use signals to communicate intention.
Use lights and wipers according to conditions.
Use pedals smoothly to avoid abrupt movement.
Moving off is a full observation task
Before moving off, the driver must confirm that the path is clear and that other road users understand the intention. Mirror checks, blind-spot checks, and signalling belong together.
Check front, sides, rear, and blind spots as needed.
Signal before pulling out.
Move off smoothly only when safe.
Smooth control reduces surprise
Abrupt steering, harsh braking, or sudden acceleration can surprise other road users and reduce stability. FTT answers usually favour smooth, planned control over rushed reaction.
Brake progressively where possible.
Steer smoothly through bends and lane changes.
Keep both control and observation active.
Scenario check
Apply the rule before you move on.
These short checks are intentionally close to how test traps feel: one detail changes the answer.
Question
You realise the mirror is wrong after moving off.
Answer
Avoid distracting adjustment while moving; stop safely if a major correction is needed.
Question
You are about to pull out from the kerb.
Answer
Check mirrors and blind spots, signal, and move only when safe.
Question
You brake harshly without checking behind.
Answer
That can create rear-end risk. Observe and brake progressively where possible.
Next step
Turn this guide into active recall.
Read the related module for full explanation, then use flashcards to check whether the distinction is actually memorised.
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