Which way to steer when the front is narrow and the rear is wide?
4 Answers
When the front is narrow and the rear is wide, steer towards the wider side to make the wider side narrower and avoid the other side crossing the line. Below are some steering precautions: 1. Check behind the car before reversing: Estimate the reversing route and determine whether the front of the car will hit obstacles during reversing. Especially when the steering wheel is turned significantly, the turning radius of the front wheels is larger than that of the rear wheels, and the front of the car swings outward more during reversing. Be careful to avoid scraping the front of the car. This method is more suitable when parking on the right side or when a longer reversing distance is required. 2. Rear steering: If the rear of the car needs to move to the right rear, turn the steering wheel to the right; conversely, turn it to the left. This is the same as the steering operation when driving forward. 3. Reversing: Do not only look behind the car while reversing. While ensuring safety behind the car, occasionally observe the left and right rearview mirrors, pay attention to the distance between obstacles and the car body, and use the steering wheel to adjust the car's position while reversing.
Having driven for decades, my experience tells me that when reversing, if the space in front is narrow and the back is spacious, the steering wheel should be turned towards the spacious side. This way, the rear of the car will naturally turn towards the wider side, and the body will adjust itself to avoid the narrow space in front. For example, in residential parking spots or old alleys, I've encountered this situation countless times. The key is to make gentle movements and avoid sudden turns of the steering wheel, as excessive shaking can easily lead to scratches. At the same time, keep an eye on the rearview and side mirrors to ensure there are no obstacles. This technique also applies to garage parking—as long as there is space behind, you can reverse in steadily. Remember, the rear of the car turns in the direction you turn the steering wheel. With enough practice, it will become as natural as breathing. Safety first—don’t rush and overlook basic control.
I was quite nervous when learning to drive. The instructor said that when reversing into a spot with a narrow front and a wide rear, I should steer the wheel towards the wider side. At first, I didn’t quite understand, but after trying a few times, I found it really worked. Turning the steering wheel to the right made the rear of the car move right, creating more space and preventing the front from hitting the wall. I practiced this many times in the training area and gradually got used to it. The most important thing throughout the process is to maintain a slow speed and stay calm, while also paying attention to the surroundings to avoid distractions. For beginners, I’d suggest finding an open area to simulate and practice—it really helps. Now, when I drive myself, I often use this technique, especially in complex situations like reversing into parking spots in tight residential areas. It’s been very effective in reducing the risk of scratches. With more practice, it becomes much easier.
When I drive my kids to school every day, parking spaces are always tight. When facing a narrow front and wide back, I turn the steering wheel towards the wider side at the back, making it easier to swing the rear of the car around. When reversing, remember to look back more often to avoid hitting anything. These small tips are simple and practical—just stay attentive.
