How to Determine if the Steering Wheel is Centered or Turned One Full Rotation

[LaHayden]

Here are methods to determine if the steering wheel is centered: 1. Turn the steering wheel left and right by 90 degrees while stationary: Feel the weight of the steering wheel. When the steering wheel is centered, turning it 90 degrees feels lighter, whereas turning it 90 degrees after a full rotation feels tighter. Alternatively, you can try turning it one full rotation to determine whether the steering wheel is currently centered or turned 180 degrees. 2. Move the car slightly forward or backward after parking: If you can't remember the number of steering wheel rotations, you can also use slight movement to check if the steering wheel is centered. After parking, moving the car slightly forward or backward will help you determine if the steering wheel is centered, allowing you to adjust it promptly while moving. 3. Check the tire direction: If conditions permit while parking, you can lean out the window to observe whether the tires are aligned. Observing the tires while driving makes it easier to center the steering wheel.

[OMadeline]

I have so much experience with this! If the steering wheel isn't straightened when parking, the tires will bear force at an angle. The simplest way is to look at the emblem in the center of the steering wheel—it should normally be facing you directly. However, some cars have irregularly shaped steering wheels, so you can remember the feel of the last turn you made before parking. I like to stick a small piece of tape at the top of the steering wheel as a marker; if the tape is facing upward when I exit the car, the wheel is straight. Counting turns is crucial when steering—a half-turn to the left with a clicking sound from the steering wheel means 90 degrees, and a full 360-degree turn usually gives a noticeable change in wheel resistance. With enough practice, muscle memory will help you figure it out.