What Happens When You Turn the Steering Wheel to the Full Lock?
2 Answers
Turning the steering wheel to the full lock can damage the car. The following are the hazards of turning the steering wheel to the full lock: 1. It can cause damage to the car's suspension. 2. It accelerates tire wear and reduces tire lifespan. 3. It increases the oil pressure in the steering system's high-pressure oil pipe, exacerbating damage to the steering system. Here is the correct way to operate the steering wheel: 1. When holding the steering wheel, the driver should adopt a correct posture to ensure flexible use. 2. Grip the steering wheel with both hands using an appropriate amount of force—not too tight or too loose. When holding the steering wheel, the elbows should be slightly bent. The size of the steering wheel should allow the entire palm to wrap around it comfortably, neither too thick nor too thin.
Over the years of driving, I've noticed many people have the habit of turning the steering wheel to its limit when parking or making turns, which is actually quite harmful to the car. When the steering wheel is turned to the limit, the power steering pump operates under high load continuously, which can easily lead to overheating of the oil or even oil leaks, especially in vehicles with hydraulic power steering systems. It might be fine for a short while, but repeatedly doing this can significantly shorten the lifespan of the power steering pump, and replacing one can cost several hundred dollars. Additionally, tire wear can also increase because the edges of the tires bear uneven force, leading to uneven tread wear over time, reduced grip, and more skidding in rainy conditions. I recommend leaving some leeway when parking, not letting the steering wheel lock at its limit. Developing this habit can save a lot on repair costs and improve driving safety.
