Can You Turn with the Differential Lock Engaged?

[Ryder]

Engaging the differential lock allows for turning, but it is not recommended to make sharp turns (referring to steering wheel rotation exceeding 360 degrees). Forced turning can cause wear to both the tires and the differential lock, though it won't easily lead to damage. The differential lock should only be used on unpaved roads. However, driving with the differential lock engaged on paved roads can result in the following issues: 1. Severe tire wear. Due to the excellent grip on paved surfaces, locking the differential eliminates the ability for left and right tires to differentiate speeds, forcing the vehicle to rely on tire slippage for differentiation, which leads to significant tire wear. 2. Severe differential wear. With the differential lock engaged, the half-shafts are in a rigid connection state. When driving on paved roads, the force required for left and right wheel differentiation must be entirely borne by the differential lock, thereby reducing its lifespan.