Should the steering wheel be turned one full rotation or to the lock when making a U-turn?
3 Answers
When making a U-turn, the number of rotations of the steering wheel is related to the inner radius of the curve during the turn. The details are as follows: Generally, it's about two and a half turns to each side. The vehicle's manual provides data on the turning radius, for example, 4.5 meters, which means turning the steering wheel to one side until it locks and then driving will allow the vehicle to make a circle with a diameter of 9 meters. However, in actual driving, it's best to avoid turning the steering wheel to the lock. Even if you do, don't keep it locked for too long; you can slightly release it to prevent cumulative damage to the hydraulic steering system. When parking for an extended period, try to return the steering wheel to the straight position to reduce pressure on the hydraulic system, which can extend the lifespan of the vehicle's steering system. If the road is very wide: control the speed and turn the steering wheel slowly.
I've been driving for several years, and when making a U-turn, the steering wheel isn't always turned a fixed full circle or locked. It depends on the road conditions and the type of vehicle. For instance, on a wide road with slow speed, turning the wheel half a circle or a bit more is sufficient. In narrow alleys or heavy traffic, you might need to turn the wheel more to complete the maneuver smoothly. Locking the steering wheel can damage the steering system, such as the steering gear or power steering pump, especially in older cars without power steering, which is even riskier. I often drive in the city, and when making U-turns, I gently turn the wheel to keep the car stable and avoid sudden movements that could harm the vehicle. Remember, safety first—observe carefully before acting. Beginners might panic, but practicing a few times in an open area will make it easier.
When teaching others to drive, I always remind them to be flexible with the steering wheel during U-turns, avoiding getting stuck at one full turn or locking the wheel. The key is understanding the vehicle's turning radius: small cars have a tighter turn, requiring just a slight turn of the wheel; larger vehicles or SUVs have a wider turn, needing more steering angle. The focus is on controlling speed—adjust the steering gently when slowing down to prevent loss of control or tire wear. For safety, wait until there are no cars or it's safe to make a U-turn. Locking the wheel can reduce traction, especially risky in rain or snow. Adopting this method in daily driving saves fuel and protects the car, and always check the surroundings using mirrors.
