How to Steer the Wheel When Turning a Small Car?
3 Answers
Place your left hand at the 9 o'clock position and your right hand at the 3-4 o'clock position, with the thumbs gripping the inner side of the steering wheel and the other four fingers holding the outer side. When turning left, first activate the left turn signal, then use your left hand to pull the steering wheel to the left while your right hand assists in pushing it leftward. When turning right, first activate the right turn signal, then use your right hand to pull the steering wheel to the right while your left hand assists in pushing it rightward. The key to navigating continuous curves is to reduce speed and slightly lean to the right. If turning right, you may lean slightly to the left.
When I'm driving around a corner, I always prefer to slow down first to reduce risks, especially on sharp turns or rainy days. Checking the rearview and side mirrors before turning is a crucial safety step to ensure no other vehicles or pedestrians are nearby. Steering should be controlled smoothly: for gentle turns, only about 30 degrees of rotation is needed, with hands firmly at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions; for sharp turns, it may require over 90 degrees, but quickly straightening the wheel afterward prevents the car from drifting. I've found practicing figure eights in an empty lot very effective—it helps the body memorize steering feedback. After turning, the wheel will naturally return to position, so there's no need to grip it tightly. Driving more on roads with complex conditions helps develop a natural and fluid feel—the key is to stay relaxed and avoid tension that leads to jerking the wheel.
The key to steering lies in anticipation and smooth operation. I often help people understand the importance of speed control: keep it under 30 km/h for wide turns, where a slight nudge of the wheel suffices; for sharp turns, go even slower, possibly turning the wheel 120 degrees or more. I always signal with the turn indicator before steering—basic courtesy. Keep hands symmetrically positioned, avoiding crossed arms during turns to prevent loss of control. Let the wheel return naturally; don’t yank it. On icy roads, I’m extra cautious, turning with exaggerated gentleness to avoid skidding. Ultimately, practice builds instinct—but safety always comes first.
