Should the steering wheel be straightened after parking?
3 Answers
After parking, the steering wheel should be straightened. The following are the impacts of not straightening the steering wheel after parking: Impact on the power steering pump: If the steering wheel is not straightened after parking, it is equivalent to the power steering pump pushing out oil to assist steering without returning the oil, creating negative pressure inside the pump. This accelerates the aging of the power steering pump and also puts excessive pressure on the oil pipes. Impact on the tires: Under normal circumstances, the tires maintain a state where the tread is in contact with the ground and bears the load. When the steering wheel is not straightened, the pressure on the sidewalls of the tires is relatively high. Since the sidewalls of tires are very thin, frequently subjecting them to unbalanced forces will accelerate the aging and deformation of the sidewalls. Over time, this can lead to air leakage or tire blowouts.
I've been driving for decades and always make it a habit to straighten the steering wheel after parking. This isn't just for safety—it also protects vehicle components. If you park on a slope without straightening the wheel, the car might slowly roll, leading to a serious accident. I once neglected this myself, parking with the wheel turned right in my neighborhood, only to find the car had moved a few centimeters by morning. Keeping the steering system misaligned for long periods increases suspension pressure, causing premature wear. Tires may also wear unevenly, shortening their lifespan. Straightening the wheel takes just seconds, and once it becomes a habit, starting the car feels smoother. In urban parking, straightening the wheel also helps with precise parking alignment. In short, it's a simple yet highly effective habit.
This is a common issue seen in repair shops. If the steering wheel isn't straightened after parking, the steering gear, ball joints, and bearings endure extra stress, which over time can lead to cracking or oil leaks. Tires wear unevenly, with one side wearing out faster, increasing replacement costs. I've repaired many vehicles for precisely this reason, especially when parked on slopes. Straightening the wheel returns the system to its natural state, extending component lifespan. It also makes inspections easier, eliminating the need for forceful twisting. I recommend developing the habit of straightening the wheel after each parking session—it saves on repair costs and enhances safety. After all, vehicles are designed to operate most efficiently when moving straight.
