Why Should You Straighten the Steering Wheel When Parking?
3 Answers
There are several reasons why you should straighten the steering wheel when parking: 1. The tie rod will be pulled by the wheels and cannot return to its original position. The force exerted on the steering wheel's gears and the tie rod's rack will accelerate the aging or deformation of the tie rod, leading to vehicle deviation; 2. It causes the suspension system to tilt, preventing the elastic strut components, rubber seals, and rubber shock absorbers within the suspension system from returning to their original positions due to stress; 3. Uneven tire pressure distribution increases sidewall pressure, accelerating the aging and deformation of the tire sidewalls. The car's steering wheel transmits torque to the rack-and-pinion mechanism, enabling the wheels to turn left or right.
When parking, straightening the steering wheel is mainly to protect the car's steering system and tires. If not straightened, the wheels remain under pressure in a twisted position for a long time, increasing the burden on the rack and pinion, accelerating wear, and affecting steering precision. In my daily driving, I've noticed some friends forget to straighten the wheel, resulting in a locked steering wheel the next time they start the car, requiring forceful shaking to unlock it—what a hassle. Tires are also prone to deformation, especially in hot or humid weather, with uneven pressure shortening their lifespan. Developing this habit extends component life and saves on repair costs.
I always emphasize the safety importance of straightening the steering wheel when parking. If parked on uneven ground or a slope with wheels not straightened, the vehicle is more prone to rolling or sliding, especially during windy or rainy weather, which can lead to accidents. I once saw a neighbor's car that wasn't straightened; a gust of wind moved it half a meter, nearly hitting something. With the wheels straightened and aligned, the car body is more stable, allowing the driver to start directly upon entering without panic during steering. Moreover, it avoids the risk of locking, ensuring safe driving at all times.
