Why is the left side wider and the right side narrower when reversing into the parking space?

[Skylar]

The reason for the left side being wider and the right side narrower when reversing into the parking space is that the steering wheel was turned too early during the reversing process. You need to turn the steering wheel a bit later to ensure that the left and right distances are equal after reversing into the parking space. Below are some tips for reversing into the parking space: 1. Control the speed: Maintain a consistent speed throughout the process using 1st gear or reverse gear at idle speed. Start at the same speed and maintain it during the maneuver. 2. Control the steering: Pay close attention during the reversing process, identify the key points for steering, and turn the wheel at the right moment. 3. Control the steering wheel: The path of the car mainly depends on the speed of turning the steering wheel and the driving speed during the test. When reversing, aim for the boundary lines and adjust the direction in time to keep the car straight when entering the parking space.

[McPatrick]

I often encounter the issue of the left side being too wide and the right side too narrow when practicing reverse parking, mainly because I turn the steering wheel too early. If I turn the wheel hastily before the rear of the car has fully entered the parking space, the right rear wheel is prone to hitting the corner of the parking spot, naturally leaving less space on the right side. Another key factor is the car's alignment; before reversing, it's essential to ensure the car is parallel to the parking line, otherwise, it's easy to veer off. Additionally, the speed shouldn't be too fast, or there won't be enough time to observe and adjust. Now, I focus on the parking corner in the right rearview mirror, waiting until the rear of the car is about thirty centimeters away from the corner before turning the steering wheel, while also controlling the clutch to maintain a steady speed with semi-engagement. This way, the space on both sides becomes much more even. Oh, and the rearview mirror angle must be adjusted accurately, or it's easy to misjudge the distance.

[AlexaMarie]

This situation often occurs due to improper timing when turning the steering wheel. Turning the steering wheel too early will cause the rear of the car to get too close to the right side of the garage too soon, resulting in squeezed space on the right. Conversely, turning the steering wheel too late will leave too much space on the left. During practice, I found that observing the position of the rear wheel and the garage corner in the rearview mirror is crucial. The best time to turn the steering wheel back is when the right rear wheel is about thirty centimeters away from the garage corner. Additionally, the initial position of the car is also important. If parked too far to the left, the right side will naturally be tight when reversing. I also make it a habit to adjust the seat position and rearview mirror angle before starting, as maintaining consistent observation helps reduce errors.

[FinleyDella]

Most likely, you turned the steering wheel too early. You rushed to turn the wheel before the rear of the car had cleared the corner of the parking space, causing the right side to get squeezed. When I was learning to drive, my instructor emphasized the 'three-look' rule: first, check the right side mirror to confirm the distance between the rear of the car and the corner of the parking space—about 30 centimeters is ideal; second, check the left side mirror to ensure the car body is parallel; finally, check the front to confirm the position of the car's nose. Additionally, speed control is crucial. I prefer using the clutch's half-engagement to reverse slowly, which gives ample time for adjustments. Remember, don't wait until the car is completely misaligned to correct—if you see more space on one side in the mirror, steer slightly in that direction to make timely minor adjustments.