The push and pull steering method is used by driving instructors to teach learner drivers how to steer correctly. It’s important to teach an initial ‘best practice’ method, that learner drivers can then modify to suit their own driving style.
Why is the Push and Pull Steering Method Used?
For any new driver, using the steering wheel can get confusing when you have other things to do and think about. Hands and arms can end up crossed over each other, leading to a loss of control. The push and pull steering method offers a technique that maintains control, no matter the situation.
How to do the Push and Pull Steering Method
In simple terms, using the push and pull steering method divides the steering wheel into two halves; the left half and the right half. You keep your left hand in the left half and the right hand in the right half of the steering wheel and avoid crossing hands over into the other half.
Turning Left using the Push and Pull Steering Method
Use this technique to steer left using the push and pull steering method and holding the steering wheel at the 9 and 3 hand position:
- Grip the steering wheel with your left hand and loosen the grip of your right hand.
- Using your left hand, pull the steering wheel down to the 6 o’clock position and slide your right hand down to meet your left hand at the bottom.
- Now grip the steering wheel with your right hand and loosen the grip of your left hand.
- Using your right hand, push the steering wheel up all the way to the 12 o’clock position and slide your left hand up to meet at the top.
- To continue steering left, repeat the process from number 1.
Turning Right using the Push and Pull Steering Method
Use this technique to steer right using the push and pull steering method and holding the steering wheel at the 9 and 3 hand position:
- Grip the steering wheel with your right hand and loosen the grip of your left hand.
- Using your right hand, pull the steering wheel down to the 6 o’clock position and slide your left hand down to meet your right hand at the bottom.
- Now grip the steering wheel with your left hand and loosen the grip of your right hand.
- Using your left hand, push the steering wheel up all the way to the 12 o’clock position and slide your right hand up to meet at the top.
- To continue steering left, repeat the process from number 1.
Steering doesn’t always have to be carried out using long sweeps of the steering wheel. For smaller turns, you can push and pull using smaller sweeps of the steering wheel.
Push and Pull Steering Method Video Tutorial
The video briefly shows how to do the push and pull steering method.
How do you practice push pull steering?
If you want to practice the push and pull steering method away from driving a car, you can simply practice it using a dinner plate, or any similar sized disc shape.
I Don’t Like Using This Method, Can I change it?
Yes, you can change and adapt the push and pull steering method to what best suits you. Providing that you maintain good steering control at all times, you can use whatever method you like. To find out exactly how the examiner judges your steering and hand placement on the driving test, see steering wheel myths and facts for the driving test.