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You just got your driving license and are excited to cruise through the suburbs, highways, and everywhere else you wish to explore. But, as a new bee do you how to steer a car for beginners. While you need to position your hands correctly on the steering wheel, your grip should also be firm but gentle.

Since you’re still gaining your driving experience, you have to ensure you properly adjust your steering so your car responds correctly and you don’t tire yourself.

So how can you steer your car correctly?

Let’s dive in to find out more.

But first, the principles of good steering.

Fundamentals of Proper Steering

Before, we go further, here’s a video of how to hold the steering wheel for your DMV road test.

First and foremost, while you’re out there driving, do not understeer or oversteer. Here are pointers to help you nail your steering;

Positioning Your Hands on the Steering Wheel

how to steer a car properly

The recommended method of holding the steering wheel is the 9:3 position because it’s more comfortable and natural. There’s also the 10:2 position ideal for taller people using vehicles with limited seating and steering positions. But you can adjust your steering and seating position to suit any of these two steering options.

Car Steering Techniques

Vehicle steering systems keep changing with time. This means your steering technique should also keep pace for safer and comfortable driving. Adapting your steering to the situation and vehicle is the only way you’ll drive properly.

Here are the different steering techniques you can adapt to for safe and comfortable driving:

Steer Left Push-Pull Steering Technique

For this technique, you can use either of the two steering methods. Hold the steering wheel with your left hand while loosening the right hand. Then pull the wheel with the left hand to a 6 o’clock position. Slide your right hand down so that it meets with your left. Now use the right hand to grip and loosen the left before pushing the wheel back up in a 12 o’clock position with the right hand as you slide the left up to meet with the right hand.

While steering, don’t cross your arms to excess but allow the wheel to spin freely while keeping both hands on the wheel.

Steer Right Push-Pull Steering Technique


You can also use either of the two steering positions with this technique. Grip the steering wheel using your right hand as you loosen the left one. Pull the wheel down in a 6 o’clock position with the right hand and slide down the left to meet the right.

Now grip the wheel with the left hand while loosening your right hand. Push the wheel back with your left hand in a 12 o’clock position as you slide up the right hand to meet the left.

For maximum, full lock right, you can start when both hands are positioned on top of the wheel. Then pull down as your right hand grips and the left slides down to the left of the wheel in the opposite side. Your hands will eventually meet at the bottom.

With your right-hand gripping and pulling the wheel down and the left sliding down opposite, you will have a full lock.

Once you become confident with these techniques, you’ll gradually start steering effectively.

How to Steer at Different Speeds

When traveling at low speed, you need to steer the wheel more. As you perform a maneuver, like making a turn, you should steer to full right or left lock very quickly.

While driving fast at 70 mph on a dual carriageway, you should steer in small increments to effectively direct the car.

how to steer a car for beginners

Every time when steering, you should factor in your speed. Always anticipate that changing direction while driving slowly will need more physical effort on the steering wheel. So you should be ready to turn the wheel at a high degree in low-speed areas such as urban neighborhoods, residential streets, and parking lots. But when driving fast, you can turn the wheel slightly, especially when changing direction on high-speed roads such as highways.

Kerbside Parking

As a beginner, parking within 30 cm of the curb can be challenging. To do it right, you need to use small increments of left steering and wheel straightening. Do this repeatedly until you are closer to the curb. Remember, if you steer harshly towards the curb, your front left wheel may end up hitting the curb.

What You Should Never Attempt As a New Driver

What is a good rule when learning to steer a car?

Here’s the golden rule: start with your hands at either 9 and 3 o’clock or 8 and 4 o’clock. Why? Well, crossing your hands over the middle of the steering wheel is a big no-no! It’s like mixing up your dance moves – things can get tangled up real quick!

Imagine this: you’re cruising down the streets of Brooklyn, and it’s time to make a smooth turn. With your hands locked in those perfect positions, you’ll glide through those curves like a ballroom dancer, gracefully guiding your vehicle with precision.

Keep those hands steady, even when making turns. It’s like having a secret power steering mode, but without the actual buttons. By maintaining those positions, you’ll have full control and be ready to tackle any unexpected twists and turns that come your way.

So, remember the drill: hands at 9 and 3 o’clock or 8 and 4 o’clock, no crossing over! It’s the key to steering success and driving like a true pro.

What should you not do when steering?

When steering a car, here are some important things to avoid:

By avoiding the above mistakes, you can enhance your steering technique and promote a safer driving experience.

Does it matter how you steer a car?

Yes, the way you steer a car can significantly impact your control, handling, and overall driving experience. Here’s why it matters:

Take Away

The first step of learning how to steer a car for beginners correctly is by adjusting your steering column and seat properly. This will help you fix your distance and height so you can sit comfortably behind the wheel. If you place a lot of stress on your body, you’ll be tired, distracted, and less responsive. Your seat position will affect your grip, so make proper adjustments before you set out.