What is the correct way to steer the wheel?
3 Answers
Correct method for steering the wheel: Place both hands at the horizontal positions of the steering wheel, specifically at the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions. Avoid gripping the wheel too tightly or with excessive tension, as this can lead to driver fatigue. When turning the wheel, use a hand-over-hand technique rather than sliding one hand. The steering wheel is a round control device used in cars, ships, and aircraft to direct movement. Its function is to convert the force applied by the driver on the wheel's rim into torque, which is then transmitted to the steering shaft. It mainly consists of a frame, foam padding, and mounting clips or screw holes for the driver's airbag (DAB).
With 15 years of driving experience and having taught hundreds of students, I know steering wheel handling requires proper technique. Let me teach you the safest 9-and-3 o'clock grip: Hold both sides of the wheel naturally like clock hands. Avoid fancy cross-hand maneuvers when turning - use hand-over-hand technique for sharp turns and push-pull method for slight adjustments. Remember to return the wheel with controlled motions like reeling in a kite, never letting it snap back. Make gentle micro-corrections at high speeds, keeping fingers clear of spokes and thumbs resting outside the rim. Every time I touch the wheel, I remind myself this isn't just about controlling the car - it's about commanding safety initiative.
After seven years of commuting by car, spending two hours daily gripping the steering wheel, my key takeaway is: sit upright and adjust the seat distance so your wrists can naturally rest on the top of the wheel. When turning, avoid locking your arms straight—keep elbows slightly bent for flexible control. Here’s the crucial tip! Many female drivers tend to pull the seat too close, almost pressing the wheel against their chests, which can cause arms to collide with the body on bumpy roads. My trick is to steer like pushing a Tai Chi ball—using the entire upper body to guide the arms in smooth arcs, rather than just twisting the wrists. This prevents arm fatigue on long drives and allows quick swerves to dodge sudden e-bike surprises.
