How to Correct the Vehicle Body by Steering While Moving Forward?
3 Answers
When the front of the car deviates to one side, it is necessary to steer to the opposite side to correct it (if the car body leans left, steer right to correct, and vice versa). After the steering is corrected, continue to steer in the opposite direction to change the direction of the car's front. Steering before complete correction will only reduce the deviation. When moving forward, steering left turns the front left; steering right turns the front right—the steering method is the same as when reversing.
After driving for so many years, I've figured out that the trick to correcting the steering wheel while moving forward is to make small, subtle adjustments. If the car drifts slightly to the left, gently turn the steering wheel a little to the right, then straighten it immediately once you feel the front of the car aligning back; do the opposite if it drifts to the right. The key is to use a soft touch, keeping the steering wheel's turning angle under 15 degrees, and focus your eyes on the road at least 50 meters ahead, not staring at the front of the car. At speeds below 60 km/h, the steering wheel responds a bit slower, so you can take longer intervals between corrections; on highways, you need to be more sensitive, making quick and steady micro-adjustments. When driving over bumpy roads where the steering wheel shakes violently, relax your grip slightly to allow the tires to self-correct somewhat. Additionally, maintaining an upright sitting posture and holding the steering wheel firmly at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions will make your corrections more precise.
Having taught many students, I often remind them to correct the steering early and with minimal adjustments. For example, if you notice the car slightly drifting to the right while driving, immediately steer gently to the left, keeping the angle around 10 degrees, and straighten the wheel once the car begins moving left. Remember the principle: 'steer gently in the opposite direction of the drift,' with movements as light as caressing the steering wheel. During practice, try finding a straight road, intentionally letting the car drift slightly before correcting, to train your feel for it. Pay special attention to the impact of speed: below 40 km/h, corrections can be slightly slower, but above 60 km/h, you need to be more decisive. Always keep your gaze focused far ahead at the end of the lane, not on the hood, as this can lead to overcorrection. Beginners are advised to practice for an extra half-hour during low-traffic periods in the morning or evening; once muscle memory develops, it will become natural.