What to Do When the Car Body is Not Straight While Reversing into the Parking Space?
3 Answers
When reversing into the parking space and finding the car body is not straight, the methods to correct the position are: 1. If the steering is turned too early, you need to turn the wheel back one full turn, then continue reversing. When the car body is straight, turn the wheel back another full turn to straighten the wheels, then proceed into the space and make minor adjustments if necessary; 2. If the steering is turned too late, when the car body is straight, do not turn the wheel back immediately. Wait until the distance is appropriate before turning; 3. After entering the space, make minor adjustments to correct the car body. The principle is to steer in the opposite direction of where the rear of the car is leaning. When reversing into the space, use the clutch to reduce the speed, which allows enough time for adjustments. Also, when checking the rearview mirror, you don't need to sit completely still; slightly leaning forward can help detect if the car body is not straight earlier.
I often encounter the situation where my car is not aligned properly when reversing into a parking space. I remember when I first started driving, this was my biggest fear. Once I notice it's crooked, I immediately step on the brake to stop completely—don't rush to reverse. First, take a deep breath and calm down. Then, check the rearview mirror to confirm the angle of the parking space. If the rear of the car is leaning to the left, I turn the steering wheel slightly to the right, move forward a short distance (about half a meter), and then slowly reverse back to adjust. Throughout the process, keep the speed slow and use the reversing camera to observe the surroundings to avoid scratches. For safety, always stop first to check both sides and the rear, ensuring no pedestrians or cars are approaching before moving. I often practice this in open areas of my neighborhood, simulating parking from different angles. With enough practice, you'll be able to correct it instinctively. The key to reversing into a parking space lies in rhythm and patience—try a few more times, and it will eventually align properly.
After driving for so long, dealing with a crooked car body while reversing is quite simple. I would immediately stop the car and determine the direction of the tilt. For example, if the rear of the car is leaning to the right, I would turn the steering wheel slightly to the left, move forward a small step, and then reverse back to correct it. Maintain a very slow speed, carefully check the distance using the rearview mirror, and don’t rely solely on feeling. If you make a mistake, don’t worry—just stop the car and replan the route; it’s the easiest way. Remember to keep the reverse lights on to alert people around you. Pay attention to the parking environment to avoid any obstacles. The key is to practice more—I’ve found in my driving experience that these fine-tuning techniques save time and ensure safety. If the car body isn’t straight, take it slow and steady; rushing won’t help.
