Understanding the Cockpit Drill in your First Lesson

Mastering the Cockpit Drill in a VW ID.3 – A Complete Guide for Learner Drivers

You can download our cockpit drill at the bottom of this blog post.

Starting your driving lessons is an exciting step toward independence, and it all begins with the cockpit drill. At 4front Driving School, we specialise in automatic driving lessons in Loughborough and the surrounding areas, using our modern VW ID.3 – a smooth, eco-friendly electric vehicle designed for learner drivers.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the cockpit drill in a VW ID.3, including how to adjust your seating (including recline), understand the pedals, start the ignition, and select the correct drive mode. Plus, we’ve created a free PDF with diagrams to help you practise at home – perfect for refreshing your knowledge between lessons.

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What Is the Cockpit Drill?

The cockpit drill is a pre-drive safety check that ensures you’re comfortable, your vehicle is correctly set up, and you’re ready to drive. It’s the first thing you’ll learn in your driving lessons and an essential habit to develop for safe driving.

In the VW ID.3, there are eight key steps to follow:

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1. Doors – Check They’re Secure

Always begin by checking that all doors are fully closed. The VW ID.3 features a dashboard indicator that shows if any door is open.

✅ Tip: Before driving off, double-check the doors – especially if you’ve had passengers.

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2. Seat – Adjust for Comfort and Control

Proper seat positioning is crucial for comfort and maintaining full control of the vehicle. In the VW ID.3, use the adjustment levers on the side of the seat to:

Move Forward/Backward – Ensure you can fully press the pedals without stretching.

Adjust Height – Position yourself to clearly see the road and dashboard.

Recline the Seat – Tilt the seatback so that when you extend your arms, your wrists rest on top of the steering wheel.

✅ Tip: Your knees should be slightly bent when pressing the pedals, and your back should be fully supported by the seat.

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3. Steering – Adjust for a Comfortable Grip

The VW ID.3 has a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, allowing you to adjust its height and reach. Ensure you can hold the wheel comfortably at the 10 and 2 position without locking your elbows.

✅ Tip: Good steering posture gives better control and reduces fatigue during longer drives.

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4. Seatbelt – Fasten It Correctly

Always secure your seatbelt and ensure it fits comfortably across your chest and lap. Check that there are no twists and that passengers are also belted in.

✅ Tip: The VW ID.3 will alert you with a warning sound if a seatbelt isn’t fastened while the vehicle is in motion.

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5. Mirrors – Adjust for Maximum Visibility

Mirrors are your best friend for maintaining awareness on the road. Adjust them as follows:

Interior Mirror – Frame the rear window for a clear, unobstructed view.

Side Mirrors – Use the electric mirror controls (located on the driver’s door) to angle them. You should see a small portion of your car and as much of the road as possible.

✅ Tip: Correct mirror positioning reduces blind spots, making your driving safer and smoother.

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6. Pedals – Understand Their Function

The VW ID.3 is an automatic electric vehicle, meaning it only has two pedals:

Accelerator (Right Pedal) – Press gently to increase speed.

Brake (Left Pedal) – Use to slow down or stop the vehicle.

✅ Tip: Always use your right foot to operate both pedals – never your left.

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7. Starting the Ignition – Powering Up the VW ID.3

Unlike petrol or diesel cars, starting an electric vehicle is a little different. Here’s how to start the VW ID.3:

1. Ensure the vehicle is in Park (P).

2. Press the brake pedal.

3. Press the start/stop button (located to the right of the steering wheel).

When the dashboard lights up, the car is ready to drive.

✅ Tip: The VW ID.3 is almost silent when it starts – watch for the dashboard signals to confirm it’s on.

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8. Drive Modes – Choosing the Right One

The VW ID.3 uses a rotary drive selector (located to the right of the steering wheel) to choose your driving mode:

P – Park (when stationary)

D/B – Drive (to move forward, with B offering increased regenerative braking)

R – Reverse

To select a mode, press the brake pedal and twist the drive selector.

✅ Tip: Use B mode on downhill roads – it helps slow the car by recovering energy.

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Why Is the Cockpit Drill So Important?

The cockpit drill isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s about safety, comfort, and confidence. By consistently performing this routine, you:

Ensure safety for yourself and others.

Improve comfort and control over the vehicle.

Reduce the risk of faults on your driving test.

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Download Our Free VW ID.3 Cockpit Drill PDF

We’ve created a free, downloadable PDF that includes easy-to-follow diagrams of the VW ID.3 cockpit drill. It’s a perfect reference between lessons and a great way to reinforce your learning.

👉 Download the VW ID.3 and Toyota Carolla Cockpit Drill PDF here

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Learn to Drive in Loughborough with 4front Driving School

At 4front Driving School, we offer automatic driving lessons in Loughborough and the surrounding areas. Our experienced, patient instructors will guide you through every stage – from your first lesson to passing your test – in our modern VW ID.3.

Whether you’re new to driving or switching from another instructor, we provide tailored lessons to suit your needs and help you become a safe, confident driver.

Book your first lesson today and start your driving journey with the experts!

👉 Visit www.4frontdrivingschool.co.uk to learn more and secure your place.