Should the steering wheel be turned to the maximum when making a U-turn?
3 Answers
This depends on the specific situation and should be adjusted according to the curvature and width of the road to determine the turning radius of the vehicle. Generally, the steering wheel is only turned to the maximum when the speed is low or the road is narrow. Related information: 1. Correct steering wheel grip: Maintain an upright sitting posture with hands positioned at the 10 and 2 o'clock or 9 and 3 o'clock positions. While driving, avoid prolonged one-handed operation unless necessary, and do not rest hands on the gearshift or window frame for extended periods. 2. Steering wheel composition: The frame is typically made of zinc alloy or aluminum alloy, with some manufacturers experimenting with cheaper and lighter magnesium alloys. The frame is produced through die-casting. A few manufacturers still use steel sheet metal for the frame, which results in a more complex structure.
I remember driving countless times, and when making a U-turn, it's best not to turn the steering wheel to its full lock. In the early days, I habitually turned it all the way, which led to premature aging of the steering system. When I took it to the repair shop, the experienced mechanic said that the power steering pump experiences a sharp increase in pressure at its limit, making it prone to oil leaks and wear on the seals. Now when I drive, I stop turning the wheel at about 80% of its full range, leaving some room for the system to buffer. This is especially important for older car models, which are more fragile—forcing the steering wheel to full lock not only damages the power steering components but can also cause the steering to become stiff and difficult to return to center. Before making a U-turn, check the rearview mirror and blind spots on both sides to ensure there are no obstacles, then turn the wheel gently. If space is limited, apply a bit more force, but never push it to the limit. After adopting this habit, my car's lifespan has extended, and the handling has become more agile and safer. Everyone can start practicing at low speeds to develop a good feel for it.
When making U-turns, I usually avoid turning the steering wheel to its full lock because that increases the load and wear risk on the steering system. During driving school, the instructor warned that full-lock steering could overload the power steering, affecting wheel alignment and handling stability. Now when I drive, I always leave about 15 degrees of space before turning, which protects components while ensuring smooth handling. When space is limited, I may need to approach the limit but strive to leave some margin to cushion the force impact. Long-term full-lock steering accelerates sidewall tire wear, increasing replacement frequency and costs. In daily driving, I adjust the turning angle based on road conditions: relaxed turns on wide roads and cautious maneuvers on narrow ones. Protecting the car saves money and hassle—everyone might consider adopting this restrained steering method.
