Where is the best place for beginners to turn the steering wheel when making a U-turn?
2 Answers
For beginners, the optimal position to turn the steering wheel during a U-turn is when more than half of the vehicle body has passed the turning point. In some wide intersections, you can start turning the wheel when the front of the car has passed one-third of the turning point. First, when approaching the U-turn location, drive close to the right side, reduce speed and downshift, then activate the turn signal. When the U-turn maneuver won't affect other vehicles, turn decisively. As the front of the car is about to cross the left side boundary of the road, immediately straighten the wheels, brake, and quickly turn the steering wheel two full turns to the right. Sound the horn and observe the traffic conditions behind and on both sides of the road. After confirming it's safe, immediately shift into reverse gear. Finally, when you're sure there's enough space to complete the U-turn, stop the car, quickly shift into first gear, and turn the steering wheel fully. Because reversing at intersections is dangerous and can obstruct traffic flow, vehicles should reduce speed in advance and use low gear when making U-turns. Sound the horn and proceed slowly to complete the turn. You can apply the brake slightly while giving a little gas, then turn the steering wheel left in circles until the U-turn is successfully completed. When making U-turns, drivers must strictly comply with traffic laws - U-turns are not permitted on pedestrian crosswalks.
I remember when I first learned to drive, my instructor taught me that the best position to start turning the steering wheel for a U-turn is when the front of the car just passes the midpoint of the road. In other words, it's most stable to start turning the wheel once the car reaches the middle dashed line of the road. Don't turn too early or too late to avoid scraping the curb or veering into oncoming traffic. Before making a U-turn, slow down to walking speed, keeping it under 10 km/h to ensure you can react in time. Also, check the left and right mirrors and blind spots to confirm it's safe with no vehicles approaching. A common mistake beginners make is nervously jerking the steering wheel, causing the car to lose control, so staying relaxed and practicing more is key. It's best to find an empty parking lot to simulate U-turns repeatedly to get a feel for it and understand the car's turning behavior—accuracy will come naturally. Different road widths vary: narrow streets may require smaller angle turns done in stages, while wider roads can be done in one go, but the core lies in position judgment and maintaining steady, slow control. Remember, safety first—don't attempt risky U-turns in heavy traffic.
