What Are the Hazards of Not Straightening the Steering Wheel When Parking?
2 Answers
If the steering wheel is not straightened when parking, the vehicle's steering mechanism, tires, and suspension struts remain under continuous stress. Over time, this can accelerate the aging or deformation of these components. It is recommended to straighten the steering wheel every time you park. Here are some methods to determine if the steering wheel is straightened: 1. After parking, stick your head out the window to check the tires. If they appear slanted, the wheel is not straightened. Alternatively, step out of the car to inspect and correct it if necessary. 2. You can judge whether the steering wheel is straightened based on the number of turns. A full lock is one and a half turns. If the steering wheel is straight but the wheels are tilted, it means the steering is at one turn. With practice, you can easily remember which way you turned the wheel when parking. 3. After the car has come to a complete stop, if you feel the wheel is straightened but are unsure, shift into P or D gear and let the car move slightly to confirm whether it is straightened.
About not returning the steering wheel to the center position, I remember last time I forgot to straighten it. The next day when I started the car, it suddenly veered to one side and almost hit a flower bed. It was really scary. From experience, the harm is quite significant. The gears and connecting rods in the steering system bear uneven force for a long time, making them prone to wear and deformation, and repairs can cost a lot. The tires also suffer, with one side bearing more weight and the other less, causing uneven tread wear. It may not be noticeable in the short term, but it increases the risk of a blowout at high speeds. The suspension system is also under pressure, with springs and shock absorbers aging faster. Moreover, starting the car can easily lead to loss of control, posing significant safety hazards. Now I’ve developed the habit of straightening the steering wheel before parking—it saves both worry and money. Long-term neglect of this issue affects the vehicle’s lifespan and leads to higher maintenance costs.
