Should the steering wheel be turned 90 degrees or 180 degrees for left and right turns?
2 Answers
Turn the steering wheel 90 degrees for left and right turns. It depends on the situation: First, determine whether you are making a wide turn or a sharp turn. For a wide turn, turn the wheel 1.5 full rotations; for a sharp turn, turn it within 1 full rotation. Turning precautions: When turning, first apply the brakes to reduce speed while observing the side mirror on the turning side to ensure there are no pedestrians or vehicles behind. After slowing down, gradually turn the steering wheel to adjust the car's position as you approach the turn. If making a U-turn or a 90-degree sharp turn, quickly turn the steering wheel and then swiftly return it. The key point is to always slow down before turning. Factors affecting turning radius: The turning radius of a car is determined by its wheelbase, track width, and the maximum steering angle of the front wheels.
After years of driving, I've realized there's no fixed number for steering wheel angles during turns—it all depends on the situation. For example, when making a left turn in the city, a 90-degree turn might suffice if the intersection is gentle, but for sharp turns like a 90-degree curve, you might need to turn 180 degrees or even a full rotation. When reversing into a parking space, a 180-degree turn is often necessary for precise positioning. On highways, lane changes typically require just a slight 30-60 degree turn, avoiding excessive movement. Speed also affects the steering angle—gentle turns at low speeds for better control, and smaller angles at high speeds to prevent skidding. In short, don't fixate on 90 or 180 degrees; focus on flexibly judging the turning radius and road design for safe driving. With practice and experience, it'll become second nature.
