What is the difference between understeer and oversteer?
2 Answers
The difference between understeer and oversteer is: understeer is insufficient steering, while oversteer is excessive steering. Related introduction: 1. Understeer: Understeer phenomenon refers to when the vehicle is turning, the front wheels lose grip, causing the vehicle to not turn in the intended direction. This situation often occurs in front-wheel-drive vehicles. For example, when trying to make a quick 90-degree turn, the front of the car may only turn 50 degrees. 2. Oversteer: Oversteer refers to the rear of the car, where the rear wheels lose grip during a turn, causing the vehicle to rotate more than intended. This generally occurs in rear-wheel-drive vehicles. For example, when intending to make a 60-degree turn, the car may turn 90 degrees due to rear wheel slippage.
I remember last time when I was driving my old sedan in the rain and making a turn, the front of the car just wouldn't respond and kept pushing straight forward, almost sliding off the road. This is called understeer, usually caused by the front wheels losing grip, worn tires, or slippery road conditions leading to insufficient steering—it's scary but common. Compared to oversteer, which I experienced during an off-road test drive when the rear suddenly swung sideways like dancing, mostly due to rear wheel slip or drive wheel skidding, it feels dangerous but can be controlled by easing off the throttle and adjusting the steering. Both are manifestations of driving imbalance. I recommend everyone regularly check tire pressure and tread patterns to reduce sudden accidents.
