How many degrees should the steering wheel be turned for a small right turn?
2 Answers
For a small right turn, the steering wheel should be turned approximately 150 to 160 degrees. The steering wheel is a wheel-shaped device used to control the direction of vehicles such as cars, ships, and airplanes. Its function is to convert the force applied by the driver on the edge of the steering wheel into torque, which is then transmitted to the steering shaft. The steering wheel mainly consists of a frame, foam, and mounting clips or screw holes corresponding to the driver's airbag (DAB). Typically, the steering wheel is connected to the steering shaft via splines. Using a larger diameter steering wheel reduces the hand force required by the driver when turning. The steering intermediate shaft, acting as a connector between the steering gear and the steering shaft, facilitates the standardization of the steering gear, compensates for errors during manufacturing and installation, and ensures a more rational installation of the steering gear and steering wheel in the vehicle.
When it comes to how many degrees to turn the steering wheel for a small right turn, there's really no one-size-fits-all number. It mainly depends on the curve size, vehicle speed, and your car type. Having driven for decades, I often navigate tight turns in urban alleys. My habit is to initially turn the wheel about 90 degrees as a test—if the car's nose doesn't align with the apex of the turn, I'll adjust by adding or reducing the angle. At speeds below 20 km/h, steering angles ranging from 45 to 120 degrees are normal, but avoid sharp turns to prevent losing control. Road conditions matter too; for example, on rainy days when tires are prone to slipping, turning slightly less ensures stability. Practice in open areas by trying different curves, keeping your eyes on the turning point while letting your hands move naturally—don't rigidly memorize degrees. Remember, safety comes first: slow down before turning and ensure pedestrian safety.
