Should the Steering Wheel Be Turned to the Full Lock Position?
2 Answers
It is not advisable to turn the steering wheel to the full lock position. When making a turn, if the steering wheel is turned to full lock, the pressure on the power steering pump can increase several times or even more. Continuously turning the steering wheel to full lock will shorten the lifespan of the power steering pump. Consciously avoiding turning the steering wheel to full lock and checking whether the vehicle is properly parked and the steering wheel is straightened after parking can help maintain the car's condition. If the steering wheel is not straightened, adjust it promptly to avoid damage to the vehicle. Methods to avoid turning the steering wheel to full lock: Remember the number of steering wheel turns When parking, you can judge whether the steering wheel is straightened based on the number of turns. While moving the vehicle, turn the steering wheel and remember the number of turns from full lock to the center position. Turning it back to the center position will straighten the steering wheel. For most family cars, the steering wheel can be turned from the center position to full lock in one and a half turns to the left or right, though some models may require more turns. Avoid turning the steering wheel while the vehicle is stationary, as this can also cause significant damage to the vehicle. Move the vehicle forward or backward after parking If you cannot remember the number of steering wheel turns, you can also judge whether the steering wheel is straightened by moving the vehicle forward or backward. After parking, moving a short distance forward or backward will help determine if the steering wheel is straightened, allowing for timely adjustments while moving. Check the tire direction If conditions permit when parking, you can stick your head out of the window to observe whether the tires are straightened. Observing while driving makes it easier to straighten the steering wheel.
After years of working as a mechanic, I've found that while you can certainly turn the steering wheel to its full lock, doing so frequently isn't great for the car. Last time, my neighbor's SUV developed worn outer CV joints from long-term full-lock steering, causing creaking noises during low-speed turns. The principle is that at full lock, the power steering pump's pressure surges several times over, making the hydraulic lines vibrate – prolonged stress like this can lead to leaks in the steering gear's seals. My advice is to ease off slightly when maneuvering in parking spaces, especially in newer cars with electric power steering where the system automatically reduces output to protect components. Here's a lesser-known fact: tire friction coefficient increases by over 20% at full steering lock, which can cause premature sidewall aging and cracking.
