What does it mean to turn the steering wheel to full lock?
2 Answers
Turning the steering wheel to full lock means rotating it to its maximum limit until it can't turn further. There are different steering techniques for various road conditions: 1. Continuous curves: First, pay attention to slowing down, then before entering a curve (e.g., a right curve), slightly lean to the left, and vice versa for a left curve. 2. Turning at intersections: Generally, turning the wheel one full rotation is sufficient, but on narrow mountain roads, you must turn to full lock. 3. U-turns: For multi-lane large intersections, you can use a "wide turn" method. Keep slightly more distance from the inner side of the vehicle to avoid scraping accidents. For single-lane small intersections where a single turn isn't enough, consider completing the maneuver in two passes. When making U-turns, there's no need to fully lock the steering wheel; leave some margin and adjust flexibly according to the actual situation.
Turning the steering wheel to full lock means rotating it to the maximum left or right angle where it can't turn further. I remember since I started driving, this technique has been particularly useful for parking or making U-turns in narrow alleys, saving both time and effort. But be cautious – holding full lock for too long can damage the steering system. For instance, excessive pressure on the power steering pump may cause overheating, and the belt can wear out faster. Nowadays, I try to avoid exceeding 10 seconds, especially during cold starts. This habit helps prolong the car's lifespan, and I recommend new drivers learn such safe driving techniques. Regularly check the power steering fluid level and belt tension – don't overlook these small details, as they can save you significant repair costs.
