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QuizTraffic rulesPortugal

Test your knowledge with our multiple-choice quiz. Learn from each answer and improve your understanding of the traffic rules and road signs of Portugal.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Portugal
True/false 17 Portugal 33 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Driving licence 40 Show all 640
Which vehicles are covered by driving licence AM?

301. Which vehicles are covered by driving licence AM?

Motorcycles up to 125 cm³.
✓ Mopeds over 25 and up to 45 km/h, and light quadricycles.
Any two-wheeled motor vehicle.
Cars up to 3,500 kg.

Category AM covers certain two- and three-wheeled mopeds with a maximum design speed above 25 km/h and not exceeding 45 km/h, as well as light quadricycles.

Category AM mopeds and light quadricycles
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What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

302. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Air recirculation.
Front windscreen demister.
✓ Rear window demister.
Air conditioning.

This symbol indicates the rear window demister. It heats the rear window to help clear condensation, mist or frost and improve visibility.

Rear-window demister symbol on the dashboard
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What should you do if you see loose gravel on the road?

303. What should you do if you see loose gravel on the road?

Brake firmly before the tyres begin to slide.
Steer around loose patches whenever possible.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely in its tyre tracks.
✓ Slow down and avoid sudden steering or braking.

Loose gravel reduces grip and can make the vehicle skid. Slow down and use smooth steering and braking.

Vehicle on a loose gravel road
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What should you do if fuel spills while you are refuelling?

304. What should you do if fuel spills while you are refuelling?

Continue filling the tank and clean it up afterwards.
Wash the spill away with water and continue refuelling.
Ignore the spill if only a small amount escaped.
✓ Stop refuelling, avoid ignition sources, and alert station staff.

If fuel is spilled, stop refuelling immediately and keep flames, sparks, and other ignition sources away. Do not start the vehicle until the situation is safe. Alert filling-station staff and follow their instructions for dealing with the spill.

Fuel spilled during refuelling
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What should you do when approaching an uncontrolled junction?

305. What should you do when approaching an uncontrolled junction?

✓ Slow down, look carefully in all directions, and proceed only when safe.
Rely on the priority rule without reducing your speed.
Continue at normal speed unless another vehicle is visible.
Enter first if you reach the junction before another vehicle.

At an uncontrolled junction, priority may not be obvious. Reduce speed, check carefully, and only enter when you are sure it is safe.

Vehicle approaching an uncontrolled junction
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How can a roof load affect vehicle handling?

306. How can a roof load affect vehicle handling?

It affects only fuel consumption, not handling.
It reduces the effect of strong crosswinds.
✓ It can raise the centre of gravity and reduce stability.
It makes the vehicle more stable in bends.

Weight carried high on the vehicle can increase body movement and make sudden steering or cornering less stable.

Vehicle carrying a raised roof load
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What should you do when a bus signals to pull away from a bus stop?

307. What should you do when a bus signals to pull away from a bus stop?

Ignore the signal until the bus starts moving.
Accelerate and pass before the bus moves out.
✓ Slow down and be prepared to let it move out when safe.
Sound your horn so the bus waits for you.

Buses may pull away after picking up passengers. Slow down, check the traffic situation, and allow space when it is safe.

Bus signalling to pull away from a stop
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What does it mean to cover the brake pedal?

308. What does it mean to cover the brake pedal?

Rest your foot lightly on the brake while driving.
✓ Position your right foot over the brake, ready to press it.
Apply the parking brake slightly.
Press the brake and accelerator together.

To cover the brake, move your right foot over the brake pedal without pressing it, so you are ready to brake quickly if a hazard develops.

Right foot positioned over the brake pedal
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Which vehicle type is mainly associated with driving licence AM?

309. Which vehicle type is mainly associated with driving licence AM?

✓ Moped.
Truck.
Bus.
Motorcycle.

Driving licence AM is mainly associated with mopeds. Category AM covers mopeds with a design speed above 25 km/h and up to 45 km/h.

Driving licence card for category AM
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What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

310. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Seat heating.
Air conditioning.
Heated steering wheel.
Seat ventilation.

This control activates the seat heating, which warms the seat cushion and, on many vehicles, the backrest. Several heat levels may be available.

Heated-seat control and symbol
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Why must you take wider turns when towing a trailer?

311. Why must you take wider turns when towing a trailer?

Wide turns prevent the trailer from swaying.
Wider turns reduce the trailer's stopping distance.
Wider turns decrease tyre wear.
✓ The trailer follows a tighter path than the towing vehicle.

Trailer wheels cut closer to the inside of a turn. Allow enough clearance from kerbs, signs, pedestrians, and other vehicles.

Towing vehicle and trailer negotiating a turn
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What should you normally do before changing gear in a manual vehicle?

312. What should you normally do before changing gear in a manual vehicle?

Switch off the engine.
Apply the parking brake.
✓ Press the clutch pedal fully.
Press the accelerator pedal fully.

Pressing the clutch pedal disconnects the engine from the transmission so that another gear can be selected. After changing gear, the clutch should be released smoothly.

Clutch operation when changing gear in a manual vehicle
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What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

313. What does the ON position of a traditional ignition switch normally do?

Turns the starter motor.
Switches off all electrical accessories.
✓ Switches on the vehicle's electrical systems without operating the starter.
Locks the steering.

The ON position normally switches on the vehicle's electrical and ignition systems without operating the starter motor. The engine is started by turning the key further to the START position.

ON position on a traditional ignition switch
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Why should cyclists avoid using a handheld phone?

314. Why should cyclists avoid using a handheld phone?

Because a phone may be used only at low speeds.
✓ It reduces your control and attention.
Because phone signals can interfere with traffic lights.
Because phones can interfere with bicycle electronics.

Using a phone can distract you and may prevent you from steering, braking, or reacting properly.

Cyclist using a handheld phone
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What is important when raising a vehicle with its jack?

315. What is important when raising a vehicle with its jack?

Raise the vehicle before applying the parking brake.
✓ Use the correct jacking point and never go underneath a vehicle on a jack.
Place the jack on soft ground to prevent floor damage.
Use any solid-looking part underneath the vehicle.

A jack can slip or fail if it is incorrectly positioned. Secure the vehicle and use additional approved supports before working underneath it.

Vehicle raised at a jacking point for a wheel change
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How should luggage or other cargo be carried in or on a vehicle?

316. How should luggage or other cargo be carried in or on a vehicle?

Where it is easiest to reach while driving.
Loosely in the passenger area for short journeys.
✓ Securely, within load limits, without blocking visibility or lights.
Anywhere, as long as the vehicle is not overloaded.

Unsecured or overloaded cargo can affect steering and braking, injure occupants during sudden stops, or fall into the road. It must not obstruct the driver's view or vehicle lights.

Luggage and cargo carried in a vehicle
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What should you do after fitting a temporary spare wheel?

317. What should you do after fitting a temporary spare wheel?

Drive normally if the vehicle feels stable.
✓ Follow its speed and distance restrictions and replace it as soon as possible.
Increase its pressure to match the other tyres.
Ignore its speed restriction on short journeys.

Temporary spare wheels may have limited speed, distance, and handling capabilities. Arrange a proper repair or replacement promptly.

Temporary spare wheel fitted to a vehicle
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You do not need to look for cyclists when opening your car door.

318. You do not need to look for cyclists when opening your car door.

✓ False.
True.

You should always check for cyclists, motorcyclists, and other road users before opening a door.

Cyclist near the door of a parked car
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What should you do with the parking brake before leaving a parked vehicle?

319. What should you do with the parking brake before leaving a parked vehicle?

Apply it only on a slope.
Release it completely.
✓ Apply it securely.
Leave it partly applied.

Before leaving a parked vehicle, apply the parking brake securely to help prevent unintended movement. Also select the appropriate gear or transmission position for parking.

Securing a parked vehicle with the parking brake
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How can strong crosswinds affect a vehicle towing a trailer?

320. How can strong crosswinds affect a vehicle towing a trailer?

They affect only the towing vehicle, not the trailer.
They improve tyre grip on exposed roads.
✓ They can push the trailer sideways and reduce stability.
They make the trailer more stable at higher speeds.

Trailers have large side surfaces and may be affected strongly by wind, especially on bridges and exposed roads.

Vehicle and trailer exposed to crosswinds
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What should you do with the clutch when bringing a manual vehicle to a stop?

321. What should you do with the clutch when bringing a manual vehicle to a stop?

Press it before using the brake pedal.
Pump it repeatedly while braking.
✓ Press it before the engine begins to stall.
Keep it released until after the vehicle stops.

When stopping a manual vehicle, brake normally and press the clutch pedal before the engine speed becomes too low and the engine stalls. Avoid pressing the clutch unnecessarily early, as this reduces engine braking.

Clutch-pedal operation when stopping a manual vehicle
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What does turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF normally do?

322. What does turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF normally do?

✓ Switches off the engine and ignition systems.
Releases the parking brake.
Selects accessory power.
Operates the starter motor.

Turning a traditional ignition switch to OFF switches off the engine and ignition systems. The key can then normally be moved to the LOCK position and removed.

OFF position on a traditional ignition switch
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Should the legal alcohol limit be treated as a safe target?

323. Should the legal alcohol limit be treated as a safe target?

Yes, when driving only a short distance.
Yes, if you feel completely sober.
Yes, if you know exactly how much you have drunk.
✓ No, impairment can begin before the legal limit is reached.

A legal limit is an enforcement threshold, not a recommended drinking level. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect driving performance.

Alcohol consumption and the limits of safe driving
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Are bicycle helmets generally required in Portugal?

324. Are bicycle helmets generally required in Portugal?

Yes, for all adults.
✓ No.
Yes, for all cyclists.

Bicycle helmets are not generally required for all cyclists in Portugal, although specific age or regional rules may apply.

Cyclist wearing a bicycle helmet
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What should you avoid if your vehicle starts to skid?

325. What should you avoid if your vehicle starts to skid?

Stay calm and maintain control.
Use smooth steering movements.
Allow the tyres time to regain grip.
✓ Sudden braking, acceleration, or sharp steering.

Sudden braking, acceleration, or steering can make a skid worse. Stay calm and use smooth controls while the tyres regain grip.

Vehicle beginning to skid
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What should you do when a road worker directs traffic?

326. What should you do when a road worker directs traffic?

Wait for a police officer to confirm the signal.
✓ Follow the worker's signals and instructions.
Follow the normal traffic signs instead.
Follow the vehicle ahead instead of the worker's signal.

Authorised road workers may control traffic through a work zone. Watch carefully and follow their directions.

Road worker directing traffic
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What is the minimum licence for a D bus towing a trailer over 750 kg?

327. What is the minimum licence for a D bus towing a trailer over 750 kg?

Licence D1E.
Licence D.
✓ Licence DE.
Licence BE.

Category D permits a trailer with a maximum authorised mass of up to 750 kg. A category D vehicle towing a trailer above 750 kg requires category DE.

Category D bus towing a trailer over 750 kg
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How should you use the clutch and accelerator when moving off?

328. How should you use the clutch and accelerator when moving off?

✓ Release the clutch smoothly while applying the accelerator progressively.
Release the clutch suddenly without using the accelerator.
Keep the clutch fully pressed while accelerating.
Press the brake and accelerator together.

When moving off, release the clutch pedal smoothly through the biting point while applying the accelerator progressively. This helps the vehicle move away smoothly without stalling or excessive engine speed.

Coordinating the clutch and accelerator when moving off
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Why should you never leave a petrol or diesel engine running in an enclosed space?

329. Why should you never leave a petrol or diesel engine running in an enclosed space?

The battery can become overcharged.
The tyres can lose pressure more quickly.
✓ Dangerous carbon monoxide can build up.
The engine can lose oil pressure.

Exhaust gases from petrol and diesel engines can contain carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can build up quickly in an enclosed or poorly ventilated space. Never leave the engine running inside a closed garage or similar area.

Running vehicle engine in an enclosed space
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What should you do before using a pedestrian crossing?

330. What should you do before using a pedestrian crossing?

✓ Make sure it is safe to cross.
Cross once a driver makes eye contact with you.
Cross as soon as the nearest vehicle starts slowing down.
Rely on the crossing markings to make every vehicle stop.

Even at a pedestrian crossing, make sure approaching drivers have seen you and are able to stop before you cross.

Pedestrian checking traffic before using a crossing
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Which language is commonly used on text-based road signs in Portugal?

331. Which language is commonly used on text-based road signs in Portugal?

Spanish.
✓ Portuguese.
English.
French.

Text-based road signs in Portugal commonly use Portuguese.

Road signs with Portuguese wording
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What normally happens to cruise control when you press the brake pedal?

332. What normally happens to cruise control when you press the brake pedal?

The parking brake is applied.
✓ Cruise control is cancelled or temporarily disengaged.
The selected speed increases.
The accelerator pedal locks in position.

Pressing the brake pedal normally cancels or temporarily disengages cruise control, returning speed control to the driver.

Brake-pedal operation to disengage cruise control
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What should you do before entering a roundabout?

333. What should you do before entering a roundabout?

Enter without giving way if you are going straight ahead.
✓ Slow down and give way when required.
Enter first if you reach the roundabout before other traffic.
Stop before every roundabout, even when it is clear.

Before entering a roundabout, reduce your speed, observe traffic, and give way according to the local rules.

Vehicle approaching a roundabout
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What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

334. What should you do when driving through heavy rain?

Use cruise control to maintain a constant speed.
Accelerate through the rain to clear it more quickly.
Use main beam to improve visibility.
✓ Reduce speed and increase your following distance.

Heavy rain reduces grip and visibility. Lower speed and extra distance give you more time to react safely.

Vehicle travelling through heavy rain
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How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

335. How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

Only by a certified maintenance service.
Immediately after a long or high-speed journey.
✓ When the tyres are cold, using the manufacturer's recommended pressure.
Using the maximum pressure shown on the tyre.

Tyre pressure rises as tyres become warm. Check them when cold and use the pressure specified on the vehicle label or in the owner's manual.

Checking a vehicle's tyre pressure
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What is the general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in Portugal?

336. What is the general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in Portugal?

2.0 mm.
1.0 mm.
✓ 1.6 mm.
1.5 mm.

The general minimum legal tread depth for car tyres in Portugal is 1.6 mm. Higher minimums may apply to winter tyres, during winter periods or in winter conditions.

Measuring tread depth on a vehicle tyre
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What does the resume function of cruise control normally do?

337. What does the resume function of cruise control normally do?

✓ Returns the vehicle to the previously set cruising speed.
Sets the vehicle's current speed as a new limit.
Switches cruise control off completely.
Applies the brakes automatically.

The resume function normally returns the vehicle to the previously set cruise-control speed after the system has been temporarily disengaged. The driver should use it only when traffic and road conditions are suitable.

RES button for resuming the stored cruising speed
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Why are tyre condition and pressure especially important on a motorcycle?

338. Why are tyre condition and pressure especially important on a motorcycle?

They matter only when carrying a passenger.
They determine how brightly the lights work.
They affect only comfort at high speed.
✓ They directly affect grip, stability, and braking.

A motorcycle relies on a relatively small area of tyre contact with the road. Correct tyre pressure, tread and condition are important for grip, steering, stability and braking. Check the tyres regularly and follow the manufacturer's recommended pressures.

Checking the condition of a motorcycle tyre
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Why should you take extra care if oil or diesel is spilled on the road?

339. Why should you take extra care if oil or diesel is spilled on the road?

It can increase tyre pressure.
It can make the brakes overheat.
It can damage road markings immediately.
✓ It can make the road extremely slippery.

Oil, diesel and other fluids can create a very slippery road surface, particularly for motorcycles and bicycles. Reduce speed, avoid sudden braking or steering and keep the vehicle as stable as possible when crossing a contaminated area.

Oil or diesel spilled on a road surface
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How should a motorcyclist react to grooves or ruts in the road?

340. How should a motorcyclist react to grooves or ruts in the road?

✓ Reduce speed and keep a relaxed, steady grip.
Brake hard while riding through them.
Make quick steering corrections as the bike moves.
Grip the handlebars as tightly as possible.

Longitudinal grooves or ruts can affect a motorcycle's steering and may make the wheels follow the uneven surface. Reduce speed where necessary, keep a relaxed but steady grip and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering corrections.

Motorcyclist approaching grooves in the road surface
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What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

341. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Windscreen washer.
✓ Windscreen wiper speed.
Automatic headlights.
Air recirculation.

This symbol relates to the windscreen wipers. The control allows the driver to select an appropriate wiping mode or speed for the amount of rain and visibility conditions.

Windscreen-wiper control for adjusting wiping speed
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Why should you use headlights in poor visibility?

342. Why should you use headlights in poor visibility?

To keep the windscreen clear.
To make the brakes respond faster.
To prevent the tyres from slipping.
✓ To see better and be seen by others.

Headlights help you see the road and make your vehicle more visible to other road users in fog, rain, darkness, or poor weather.

Vehicle using headlights in reduced visibility
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What should you do if you approach slow-moving farm machinery?

343. What should you do if you approach slow-moving farm machinery?

Use your horn so the driver moves aside.
Overtake even if the vehicle is signalling to turn.
Drive close behind until there is room to pass.
✓ Keep a safe distance and overtake only when safe.

Farm machinery may be wide, slow, or turn unexpectedly. Keep distance and only overtake when you have a clear view and enough space.

Vehicle approaching slow-moving farm machinery
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Why should hard braking be avoided while a motorcycle is leaning in a bend?

344. Why should hard braking be avoided while a motorcycle is leaning in a bend?

It increases tyre pressure immediately.
✓ It can reduce stability and available tyre grip.
It can make the engine overheat.
It prevents the suspension from working.

When a motorcycle is leaning, the tyres are already using grip to turn. Hard braking can demand additional grip and may reduce stability. Whenever possible, adjust speed before the bend and use smooth, controlled inputs while cornering.

Motorcycle leaning while travelling through a bend
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How should cyclists brake on a wet road?

345. How should cyclists brake on a wet road?

Use only one brake to avoid skidding.
✓ Brake earlier and more gradually than usual.
Brake sharply once you are close to stopping.
Brake later and more firmly than usual.

Wet surfaces reduce grip and increase stopping distance. Smooth, early braking helps prevent skidding.

Cyclist braking on a wet road
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When should you fasten your seat belt?

346. When should you fasten your seat belt?

Only on long journeys.
✓ Before the vehicle starts moving.
After joining traffic.
Only when traffic is heavy.

Fasten your seat belt before the vehicle starts moving and keep it fastened throughout the journey. Make sure your passengers are also safely seated and properly restrained.

Fastening a seat belt before setting off
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Where should you change a wheel after a puncture?

347. Where should you change a wheel after a puncture?

On a slight slope if the parking brake is applied.
On soft ground if the jack appears stable.
As close to moving traffic as possible to keep off the verge.
✓ On firm, level ground well away from moving traffic.

The vehicle must be stable and protected from traffic. Apply the parking brake and follow the manufacturer's wheel-changing instructions.

Wheel change on firm ground away from traffic
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What is the main safety risk of aggressive driving?

348. What is the main safety risk of aggressive driving?

It can increase tyre and brake wear.
It can make the journey less comfortable.
✓ It increases the risk of crashes.
It can increase fuel consumption.

Aggressive driving, such as tailgating, speeding, or sudden lane changes, reduces safety margins and increases the risk of crashes and conflict with other road users.

Driver displaying aggressive behaviour in traffic
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Should rear-seat passengers be securely restrained?

349. Should rear-seat passengers be securely restrained?

No, only front-seat occupants need to be restrained.
Only if the vehicle does not have rear airbags.
✓ Yes, using seat belts or suitable child restraints as appropriate.
Yes, but only children need restraints in the rear.

Rear-seat passengers should be securely restrained using seat belts or suitable child restraints as appropriate. Proper restraint reduces the risk of serious injury and prevents occupants from being thrown around or forwards in a collision.

Rear-seat passengers secured for a journey
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What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

350. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low coolant level.
Windscreen demister active.
✓ Low windscreen washer fluid.
Engine-temperature warning.

This symbol indicates that the windscreen washer fluid level is low. Refill the washer-fluid reservoir with suitable fluid when possible.

Low washer-fluid warning symbol on the dashboard
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