What Causes One Side to Be Wider Than the Other When Reversing into a Parking Space?
3 Answers
The main reason for one side being wider than the other when reversing into a parking space is turning the steering wheel too early or too late during the reversing process. Below are different scenarios and their solutions: 1. "Left Narrow, Right Wide": When you notice that the distance between the right rear wheel and the right corner of the parking space is too wide, in addition to turning the steering wheel 1+1/4 turns to the right, turn it another 1/4 turn to the right. This will gradually reduce the distance between the right rear wheel and the right corner of the parking space. Use the side mirror to visually confirm the appropriate distance, then straighten the car body. 2. "Left Wide, Right Narrow": When you notice that the distance between the right rear wheel and the right corner of the parking space is too narrow, after turning the steering wheel 1+1/4 turns to the right, slightly turn the steering wheel back to the left. This will gradually increase the distance between the right rear wheel and the right corner of the parking space.
I've been driving for over 30 years, and the common reason for uneven parking space width during reverse parking is incorrect steering wheel timing. If you turn the wheel too early, the car body will lean to one side creating a narrow space; turning too late makes the other side smaller. The key is to align the starting position directly facing the center of the parking spot without tilting, then reverse slowly while using side mirrors to observe distances and make minor steering adjustments. I learned this the hard way - during practice, find reference points like the moment when the parking spot corner appears in the mirror before turning. Keep speed low, otherwise it's hard to control. Ground slope also affects parking but mainly relies on skillful practice making perfect. Nowadays reverse cameras help a lot, but fundamental skills shouldn't be neglected, otherwise you'll easily get scratches and waste money.
When I first got my driver's license, I always ended up with one side too wide and the other too narrow when reversing into parking spaces, making a mess of the parking spot. The main issue was that my starting position was off-center, and the angle was crooked, so naturally, the car ended up slanted when reversing. Steering wheel operation is all about timing—too fast or too slow, and the result is ruined. Through practice, I've learned to focus more on the rearview mirror, watching the parking lines to gradually adjust the steering wheel angle. Now, before reversing into a spot, I make sure to stop straight first, then reverse slowly, controlling the speed and not rushing—safety comes first. This common mistake often leads to scratches and costly damages. It took me over ten tries to finally get the hang of it.
