What Causes One Side to Be Wider and the Other Narrower When Reversing into a Parking Space?
2 Answers
The main reason for one side being wider and the other narrower when reversing into a parking space is the incorrect timing of steering wheel operation. The details are as follows: 1. Steering too early: When the steering wheel is turned too early during right-side reversing, the wheels will be closer to the corner of the parking space, resulting in a left-wide and right-narrow issue after parking. 2. Steering too late: When the steering wheel is turned too late, the vehicle will end up with a left-narrow and right-wide problem after reversing into the space. Below is a brief introduction to reversing into a parking space: Reversing into a parking space, also known as reverse parking or pole test, is a key assessment point in driver's license tests. It involves maneuvering the vehicle correctly into a parking space from both sides while in motion, primarily evaluating the driver's ability to operate the vehicle in confined spaces and their spatial awareness during vehicle movement.
After years of driving, I've found that uneven parking (one side wide, one side narrow) is usually due to improper steering control or poorly chosen reference points. For example, turning the steering wheel too sharply or too slowly can cause the car body to tilt; another issue is incorrect rearview mirror angles making it hard to see the garage lines. I once faced a similar situation but later learned to straighten the car before reversing, then adjust the steering wheel slightly based on the position of the garage pillars. Moving too fast also leads to deviation—keeping a low speed ensures more precise operation. Additionally, seat position affects visibility, and adjusting it brought noticeable improvement. More practice, especially in marked garages, helps familiarize yourself with the car's dimensions and spatial awareness, ultimately preventing this issue.
