Which reference point is most accurate for a 90-degree turn?
4 Answers
A 90-degree turn is most accurately executed by aligning the right side of the vehicle 30 centimeters from the edge line. Subject 2: Subject 2, also known as the small road test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license examination and refers to the field driving skills test. For small vehicles (C1/C2), the test items include five mandatory components: reversing into a garage, parallel parking, stopping and starting on a slope, 90-degree turns, and curve driving. Techniques for a 90-degree turn: Activate the turn signal and enter the 90-degree turn area, maintaining a 30 cm distance between the vehicle body and the road edge line. When the inner door handle is parallel to the inner corner of the turn, turn the steering wheel fully to the left or right. Straighten the steering wheel once the vehicle is aligned and smoothly exit the test area.
I remember when I was first learning to drive, I always had trouble with 90-degree turns. My instructor said the most accurate method was to align the wheels with the inner corner point. The specific steps were to slow down to about 10-15 km/h before turning, and when the front of the car was about to touch the roadside line, focus on the inner corner point. Turn the steering wheel sharply, and the wheels would just clear the curb. After practicing a lot, I found this method very reliable, especially in narrow urban alleys, avoiding the risk of scraping the wheels or side mirrors. Beginners tend to nervously stare at the steering wheel, but relaxing your eyes and focusing on the reference point is actually more effective. Observing road markers more often before driving helps accumulate experience and improve quickly. Now, I handle such turns with ease, saving myself a lot of unnecessary trouble.
Having driven for over a decade, making 90-degree turns is a piece of cake for me. The most accurate reference point is the vertical point of the corner—it acts like an anchor when turning. Align your steering wheel precisely with that spot, and your wheels will glide smoothly without crossing lines or hitting obstacles. Keeping speed in low gear is optimal, under 10 km/h being safest, as it allows ample time for adjustments. I’ve also noticed slight variations depending on the vehicle: compact cars align with the corner’s center, while larger vehicles require aiming slightly outward. Regular practice on the road helps—memorize fixed markers like utility poles, and mastery follows naturally. Stay patient and prioritize safety; avoiding accidents far outweighs saving time.
When teaching someone to drive, I always emphasize that looking at the outer corner point is the most reliable method for making a 90-degree turn. Slow down before turning, and start turning the steering wheel when the front of the car is about half a meter away from the roadside line. This technique ensures smooth wheel trajectory and prevents scraping. Beginners should start practicing in low-difficulty environments, such as empty parking lots. Pay attention to the tilt of the car body—hitting the right point can prevent wheel derailment issues. Combining this skill with checking the rearview mirror makes it even safer. Developing this habit reduces mistakes on the road.
