How Much to Turn the Steering Wheel at an Intersection?
2 Answers
Turn the steering wheel one full rotation at an intersection. Below are precautions for turning at intersections: 1. Control your speed: Slow down when turning, and avoid turning the steering wheel too sharply to prevent excessive centrifugal force that could cause the car to skid. If the car starts to skid, immediately release the accelerator pedal and turn the steering wheel toward the direction of the skid. Once the car regains straight-line stability, straighten the steering wheel and continue driving. 2. Avoid using the brakes: Try to avoid using the brakes when turning, especially sudden braking, to prevent skidding or accidents.
When I drive, the amount of steering wheel turn depends entirely on the situation—there's no fixed number. For example, when making a left turn at a typical urban intersection at low speed, turning the steering wheel a bit more than half a turn is enough to complete the turn. For right turns, which have a smaller angle, half a turn usually suffices. However, at higher speeds or in tighter intersections, you'll need to turn the wheel more to avoid drifting out of the lane. Slowing down before turning is key, as turning the wheel too much at high speed can easily lead to loss of control. I've driven a friend's SUV, which has a larger turning radius, so the steering wheel needs more turns compared to a sedan. Weather also plays a role—on rainy days, the risk of skidding is higher, so turning the wheel less helps maintain stability. With enough practice, you naturally develop a feel for it. When I was learning, I repeatedly practiced different turns in an empty parking lot to familiarize myself with the wheel response. Remember to look at the exit of the turn, not the steering wheel, to ensure smooth and safe passage—safety always comes first.