How to Make a Three-Point Turn

Introduction

Not enough room for a simple U-turn? It doesn’t have to be a hassle to get out of simple traffic binds; follow these simple steps to master the three point turn and get racing towards your destination in no time.

By: eHow Cars Editor

Length: 1:06

Comments: 3

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Instructions

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Difficulty: Easy

Tips & Warnings:

If you can't get the car perpendicular to the road on one try, you may have to go back and forth a few times, turning the wheel all the way from one side to the other with each attempt.
Avoid trying to make a three-point turn in traffic.

Step1

With no traffic behind you or coming toward you, turn to the right or left until you are perpendicular to the street.

Step2

Put the car in reverse. Back up straight across to the other side of the street as far as possible.

Step3

Put the car in drive or, in manual cars, first gear. Check traffic again.

Step4

Turn the wheel all the way in the direction you want to go, and step on the gas lightly to complete the turn.

Step5

Straighten yourself in the lane and drive away.

Comments

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on 7/22/2007 Upon reaching the decision to turn and go the opposite way, apply throttle until approximately 35 mph is reached. In a fast, yet smooth movement, apply a full rotation of the steering while, while simultaneously engaging the hand brake to its maximum potential. Control must be shared between handbrake, steering, and occasionally the foot brake to achieve desired turning results.

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on 11/22/2005 Instead of steering toward the opposite curb, try going all the way around. If there's not enough space, then resort to plan "B", the 3-point turn.
And turn the wheel to the extreme before backing to make sure you create enough room to finish.