Crossing Hands vs Pull Push Method

Which steering method is fastest but are there any risks? Does an airbag going off cause injury? What should you use on the driving test and should you forget feeding the wheel after passing and start crossing my hands? These are all questions I try to answer in this video.
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#drivinglesson #drivingtest #education

[@LadyBovine]

I use the turn the wheel method. It involves turning the wheel in whichever way feels natural, and it seems to work.

[@jacobfoster6773]

Indeed, I personally use my knees!

[@LadyBovine]

@@jacobfoster6773 :D

[@3mileisland516]

Pro move!

[@alanrobertson9790]

LOL

[@mdx7460]

I’m sat here trying to think what I actually do.. I have no idea

[@davidcasey1119]

To be honest I use a mixture of all 3 (crossing, pull push and window washing 1 hand). Thinking about it I use each in different situations but none of it is ever thought about though, just whatever feels natural.

[@abovethelaw4417]

But window washing is very dumb

[@KingoftheHill63]

@@abovethelaw4417 I only do it for the memes. like when manoeuvring in my driveway .Push/Pull for gentle-medium turns; Hand-over-hand for severe turns.

[@TheDantheman12121]

Oh shit! Yeah i just remembered i do the window washing too. But i generally only do it when at very low speeds like coming out of a parking space.

[@OFFtheCHIZANE]

Window washing is what Jason Bourne does when trying to escape the FSB in Bourne 2, so it must be cool

[@justamanchimp]

4:25 "All safe nobody about" *old lady suddenly smashes and rolls over the bonnet

[@DereksDontRun]

You forgot the classic one handed "washing the window" technique

[@ollieb9875]

You need to deploy the suicide knob to unlock expert mode with this manoeuvre 😂

[@will4may175]

The wax on wax off Although doing that on a bus steering wheel gives you pains in the hand, as they don't have nice leather etc on them just solid plastic, they ache the hands even if you don't one hand it.

[@bentennyson2398]

@@will4may175 I used to do that but I kept hitting the bloody horn 😂

[@problemchild1976]

Palm of hand window washing movement for v tight movement

[@markwright3161]

@@bentennyson2398 You're just letting everyone know you're turning :)

[@DomingoDeSantaClara]

I got my license in New Zealand and in all my years driving I'd never seen the pull push method until I came to the UK,I did try it out but found I couldn't corner quite as smoothly.

[@dakerbal]

Answer: Whichever you're comfortable with.

[@marklittler784]

Not to mention the steering wheel itself.

[@TheWarwar123123]

@@marklittler784 Yh have you see the new “yolk” steering wheel in the new Tesla.

[@Xaid0nTT]

I tend to use both techniques depending on the vehicle I'm driving. Also, modern cars like yours tend to have fast steering racks, so the push pull technique is enough alone, but get a Peugeot 206 and the steering wheel lock to lock takes forever, so crossing your hands is much quicker.

[@johnmckay1423]

This. One of my regular steers inspires a relaxed approach and push pull feels natural. The other one has much faster steering, so I usually cross my hands, although not in the way shown in the video. I have my hands at "quarter to three" for straight ahead and only rarely move them from there as for almost all normal driving I can steer enough without moving them on the wheel at all.

[@supergeekjay]

Full electric steering is much lighter, making steering easier and quicker. Hydraulic (hydroelectric) steering for me is heavier, and feels like it fights you. The only downside to fully electric steering is the lack of feedback through the steering system from the wheels on the road, it seems to be dampened compared to hydraulic.

[@abovethelaw4417]

Thats why modern cars are objectively better. Old cars sucked

[@adriandurn5903]

I drive a Civic Type R and BMW Z3 and both cars have such fast steering racks (2.5 turns for the BMW with a tiny turning circle and slightly over 2 for the Civic with a much bigger TC). I very rarely need to even feed my wheel through my hands in these cars as even maneuvers can be done with wheel at less than 180°. But I also had a Triumph Spitfire which had nearly 4 turns lock to lock, and a wheel the size of a tractor tyre. Crossing your arms is *easier* in that case. Ashley has a BMW which looks to have a decetly fast rack and being RWD with have a tighter turning circle than most of the FWD cars his students will be driving.

[@K4R1N3L1M4]

@@supergeekjay There's a heavier steering than hidraulics, the mechanical one (which i drive on a Renault Clio 2011). I feel everything thats happening on the system so i do JHON CENA push and pull. Having 54kg more or less and driving an almost 1ton mechanical steering sucks. Would give anything for an hidraulical steering :(

[@shock3018]

i think we all know that professional drivers dangle one hand out of their window while manoeuvring with the other

[@yan24to]

Too right they do.

[@piciu256]

I do that too. Too lazy.

[@tin2001]

I've always found dangling the hand out the window rather uncomfortable... Makes it hard to hear the phone call too.

[@littlebluepanda394]

@@tin2001 Hold the phone in your left hand and steer with your knees - you'll be fine.

[@markwright3161]

spinning the wheel with the palm of your hand, resting at the top of the wheel to ensure both hands are free for 'hand signals' :)

[@koncorde]

I mix. For manoeuvring I think the biggest issue a lot of drivers experience is that they do not make enough effort to turn the nose of their vehicle in the direction they hope to aim. My wife for instance is used to driving US style with big roads. They approach junctions square on and have the space to make luxurious turns in their big vehicles. Here you have to turn into the corner and point out the way you want to go, and you don't need to leave your wheels straight before you set off, in order to make some corners comfortable to steer around - and then you can straighten up without dramatic swing backs.

[@jansenbarralet2436]

I’m going to end up doing my first driving lesson already aware of half the things that learners normally worry about or question, brilliant stuff!

[@Subh8081]

The hand over hand cross technique is an useful one driving older cars with not efficient enough of a power steering system. The push pull method is now enough for most cars under most scenarios. I use hand over technique only in instances of slow sharp turns with cars waiting on me to finish my maneuver - examples are parallel parking in busy street, or a sharp turn from a busy 60 speed road to a driveway where I need to get the speed down to 25 to be able to get safely in the driveway.

[@TinyPigy282]

I think Ash just likes the feeling of his steering wheel sliding under the grip of his hands. That's really why he uses the pull push technique 😉🤔

[@ashley_neal]

?

[@fabianpiraianu6669]

i love the “?” confusion

[@AmnesiaForever]

@@fabianpiraianu6669 He's acting oblivious, but he knows it's true :D

[@richardjohn658]

im a bit older ,50s it was drummed into me when i was learning to use pull push method which i dropped soon as i passed , also there was not power stearing back then in normal family cars only some execitive type models that also is a factor , also i didnt need or have to wear a seat belt back then

[@bazzacuda_]

Also 5 turns lock to lock in the old days, I think Ashley's rack is just over half that.

[@richardjohn658]

@@bazzacuda_ exactly and no 3 point turns nowadays

[@tamasvarga67]

Fantastic video and very detailed explanation! I’m a driving instructor from Hungary for 33 years and we are teaching the crossing hands method. I found it easy to teach it and the majority of the pupils learn it very quickly as it feels very natural. I understand and accept your reasoning for the push-pull technique. Especially like it when it ‘forces’ you to negotiate the turns at a slower speed. I tried it but I found it more complicated than hand over hand but I’ll play more to improve my technique. I’m always open to learn new things. 😀 Great channel, keep up the good work! Greetings from Hungary!

[@Jixxer1825]

In regards to the airbag related injury, I believe it is less about the injury to the hands and forearms caused by the airbag, and more about injuries caused to the face/chest by the hands being 'propelled' by the airbag. In particular when jewellery/watches are worn.

[@pfaulks3009]

Agreed - that was my understanding.

[@dazzyd1964]

Pull-push (sliding hands) was introduced back in the day when steering wheel spokes had steep angles with a tight V where they joined the ring of the wheel and men used cufflinks. Pull-push stopped the cufflinks from getting caught in the V.

[@mgprewett]

Re airbags; a story. I can't vouch for the accuracy of this, but it had the ring of truth when it was told to me. For a time I worked as a cabbie, and some of the most interesting fares were those picked up from the Transport Research Laboratory in Crothorne. A Mercedes designer, I think, was explaining why cars have different specs for different markets; sometimes it was because of cultural differences, and to illustrate this, he recounted an incident at a Mercedes event in Spain. It had been interrupted by some very angry Spanish Traffic Police, who were returning from an accident where a child had been decapitated by an airbag in a Mercedes. "When we looked into what happened," the Mercedes engineer said, "we found that the child had been standing between its mother's legs in the passenger footwell. In Germany, that would not happen, we obey the rules, but in Spain..." He was making a point about national cultural differences, but for me it was a graphic illustration of the speed and force of airbag inflation. With arms crossed in front of a steering wheel, what would happen to a face when the arms hit it?

[@ibs5080]

Very interesting video Ash, as always. A few comments: 1. You are right about hand over hand method as standard in the USA. Same for Canada. Reason I know is I am dual British-Canadian, currently here in the UK. 2. Speaking of North America, there has recently been a great debate over there regarding what is the best standard hand position on the steering wheel, when simply following the road ahead and just making small steering inputs. The traditional "10 to 2" position is now being challenged in favour of a "9 to 3" position. And yes, it's partly due to the "air bag injury" argument, which you covered. For me, it's always been "10 to2". 3. You are right about "push-pull" being very much a British thing. You may recall the late (and very lovely) Sabine Schmitz commenting to Clarkson that he had a "very funny driving style" as he drove around the Nurburgring in a Jaguar. I believe this was partly due to his push-pull steering method. I also recall another European racing driver (forgot who) commenting "You British drive as though you are milking a cow!" 4, For me, whether to push-pull or hand over hand really depends on the traffic situation each and every time rather than a definitive "Method A is always preferred to Method B". Good point you made about having left hand available to signal left for exiting a roundabout. On a sidenote, I try to time my gearchanges as such too for the same reason - signalling. 5. I gather your BMW has a door "autolock" feature when you are on the move, as do other modern cars. I couldn't help noticing that when you were driving in traffic, your doors were locked but then unlocked when driving around the car park. As per your door lock button on your window sill either up or down. I guess when you stopped in the car park to talk for a while, a certain condition triggered the "autolock" to unlock. Just wondering if it would be safer to override the autolock feature altogether (menu setting on your BMW?) and lock all your doors manually and that way you are secure at all times when in the car. We've seen attempted car jacking videos on your channel before...plus you have a lot of camera equipment on display. Just thinking of your safety there Ash, as well as anyone that might be in the car with you

[@ashley_neal]

It's a good safety point for most people with the idea of locking their cars as soon as they get into them, and I will do the same depending on my surroundings. In my local area it has been known for driving school vehicles to be targeted especially on a Friday when they have a weeks worth of money in their pocket (Believe it or not some would keep it on them rather than leaving it at home or banking it).

[@bazzacuda_]

Track driving is very different to road driving. On track you use the 100% contact method as much as possible. There isn't anywhere on the 'ring that 100% contact needs to be broken.

[@LtNoLegs]

The one thing I would say about the push pull method, and ironically this is only really a concern when starting to drive, is that it's much more difficult to remember how much you have turned the wheel when doing manoeuvres. Once you have a feel for a particular car it's not something you really think about, but when starting to learn I remember almost counting the shuffles to do the same number the other way to get the wheels back to centre. It was quite difficult to make the "length" of each shuffle consistent, compared to crossing hands at opposite sides of the wheel at least. I would never dream of going back to crossed hands now, but it did feel a bit easier in the very beginning.

[@NoobAdventuresGaming]

I assume it’s the same for all cars, but in the fiesta it’s always one and a quarter turn for full lock, so if I ever forgot I just turned it full lock so I knew where I was, then turned back

[@ibs5080]

Loved the "Thank You" wave at the very end of your video Ash. I realise it was a courtesy "Thank You" to a driver behind but the timing was perfect as though you were also thanking us all for watching!

[@paulgreenwood3245]

Great vid Ashley, well explained. It's a shame certain influencers who have loads of views on what to forget after your driving test, don't consult an actual ADI first, or at least research for themselves! Keep up the good work.

[@tarekaltouny5637]

Excellent video, after 20+ years of experience in driving, I would say you must learn to master both, hand over hand for:- - Sharp and very sharp turns like 90° degree or less tight curves. - 3-point turns. - U turns. Push Pull for the rest of the curves:- - Roundabouts. - Mergers, specially when you are in a junction merging into a main road, using push pull will let you turn your body to see the upcoming vehicles more comfortably. - Wide U turns.

[@Will-it6ds]

Really interesting video, I feel like I sometimes do both but I’ll have to have a close look when I’m driving home later to see what I do as I’m not actually to sure. Thank for making the video ash. 👍

[@carlpearce2252]

Been driving for over 40 years both car and HGV, and the push pull method easy as long as your speed is right for reversing and slow manoeuvring crossing hands is sometimes easier I teach both methods to my students but it is a grey area with examiners.

[@MartinParnham]

Great video and I have learned loads! I have to admit I abandoned pull-push pretty quickly after I passed my test. I completely understand everything in that video and it makes total sense but I could just never master pull-push and decided that I was safer just using cross hands rather than trying to master it while I was on the road. That’s a criticism of my technique, not the method itself. I do occasionally try to use pull-push if there’s no one about. One of the downsides with cross hands that wasn’t mentioned, I think, is that I sometimes flick my signal on unintentionally.

[@gerarddoran123]

Today I learned my steering technique needs work. 😂

[@stevenhickenjr]

A hybrid of the two methods has come naturally to me. 90% percent of the time I use push pull but in some circumstances I'd cross. It's not often I cross on the road but in racing sims (too skint for track days), I find myself doing more but even then, it's usually if any sharp corners/avoidances need to be made. Foresight of what kind of corner you are going into is big part of it. I subconsciously know what I'm doing before I get there. If you hesitate, you're too late. The thing about airbags is a bit of a fallacy too. You've got bigger things to be worrying about than a bit of carpet burn. Correct practice in terms of motor sports is taking both hands off the wheel and crossing them on your chest, just before impact as a big impact can snap your wrists with the jerk of the wheel...and that's without airbags fitted. Definitely agree with the fact a lot of people hate push pull out of bad personal technique. Car Throttle were one of those channels who put out a statement saying unlearn push pull after your driving test. They used a 90 degree left hander as an example and I was sat there thinking to myself, "I could have easily made that". As much as I love their challenges and car modding videos, I found that statement laughable and even more so that thousands were agreeing in the comments.

[@theprior46]

This is such an excellent and well reasoned study. First time I've ever seen it discussed with such a close analysis. I'm certain that Ashley is right over the mis-interpretation by beginners who shuffle the steering in short lumps. It is crazy as it offers no control or smoothness. I was a driving instructor in 1970s and I had one pupil who when I had to turn the wipers on they started steering left to right mimicking the movement. I thought "hey - where the devil are you focusing?" Teaching smooth control and judgement is one of the most difficult things to do. With Air Bags I wonder if one goes off when your hands are at 12 oclock position if the bag would cause you to punch yourself in the face with the back of your hands?

[@liamholcroft7212]

I tend to lock my hands at 9 and 3, that gives me all the rotation i need, unless manouvering then i do an impression of snoop dogg.

[@pvhonce]

I've been kind of bingewatching a decent amount of your videos lately and find them most interesting. As a recently (after 40 years) retired truck-bus-car driver/driving instructor I almost never disagree with what you explain. On this topic I would like tot add that the push-pull method has a history. In the days steering had to be done without power steering there was no way to turn the steeringwheel other than with the push-pull except when going rather fast because then one could do with a little less force. Now that every car had powersteering, that is no longer an issue. As, as you have proven, the cross hands method is faster, we on the EU mainland always teach that method. In daily practice and anticipating properly one won't hardly ever release the steeringwheel but we feel one should master the technic to make shorter turns going relatively! fast easier. Also if ever in an emergency situation one needs this method to react fast enough when the car breaks out. On top of that there is even more to say about steering i.e. in general rather pushing the steeringwheel than pulling it. Looking forward to hear trom you and keep up the good work.

[@hub4learners86]

Agreed Paul. "Informed Choice" should be one the primary objectives of a Driver Trainer. As a former auto mechanic who specialised in wheel alignments for a time I roll my eyes with all the misinformation. Firstly "dry steering" is a catch phrase not really used in the repair & service industry in Australia. The idea it causes damage for the limited time a driver may need to do is nonsense. It simply loads up steering system & potentially causes a small amount of extra wear (including tyres). If you drill down into the detail for 'wear & tear' the factors would be, for example, if vehicle has power steering (steering effort) like you've mentioned, tyre pressures, size of wheels, if vehicle front wheel drive, wheel alignment & road surface, ect. Just as humans walk heel to toe a tyre being 'dry steered' will roll as it twists (or scrubs) to varying degrees. This depends on wheel alignment angles especially caster. Tyres scrub as part of normal driving! Anyway, when I'm instructing I give options when local laws & transport policy permit. As far as steering techniques I put the student first & try to incorporate flexibility where ever possible. A student's body & seating position will likely influence how they steer. Then the vehicle they are driving may lend itself to a certain way of steering. Driving Instructors should remember their vehicle is not the standard but a small part of it. A learner may end up driving a van, SUV or coupe & not just a sedan or hatchback. And that vehicle could be over 20 years old on occasion. "Horses for courses"

[@grahamnutt8958]

It has been a while since my last stint behind the wheel so I had to give this some thought 🤔. Having reflected upon this I can confirm that the "feed method" is what I would normally employ. It hasn't let me down yet and tends to make the driving smoother. The only exception to this might be when attempting to reverse park; that is when I might only have one hand on the wheel, particularly if looking over my left shoulder but that would not be employed for the full manoeuvre. The key point raised is this..... IF you can't steer quickly enough then you're going too fast. You were getting some attention from the Delta passenger there. I think you're getting famous 🤣. Stay safe everyone 👍.

[@ClaireYunFarronXIII]

I noticed when driving, it is a mixture of many ways that I turn the wheel. I hate that I do that. I wish I could stick to one, but nope. 😂 I think it varies from situation to situation. 👌

[@grahamnutt8958]

@@ClaireYunFarronXIII I don't think that Ashley will be scolding you for this. Just so long as you're in full control of the vehicle I guess it isn't a problem. Many years ago my boss told me an interesting story regarding his Dad who, by coincidence, used to be a Chauffeur and then became an ADI..... When driving swiftly he still "fed the wheel"... just a lot faster than usual. Never had an accident.

[@radhanisthebold562]

Content idea: do a video on how to maintain good form when driving in an emotional state- such as pregnant wife in labour, kids screaming and fighting, relative in hospital etc. How do you navigate two obligations; I must get to the hospital and I must drive safely and with consideration?

[@robchissy]

it's simple, keep your head and drive safe, better to go in hospital pregnant rather than in pieces

[@Speedkam]

Yeah, some advance driving handbooks mention emotions as one of the most important risk factors on the road. I also know for fact police control room would stop any pursue when they deem police driver being too emotional.

[@marklittler784]

Always position your car so you can see well ahead and never too close to the one in front even when in a hurry it's an advantage to making good progress.

[@marklittler784]

Slow drivers as a rule arn't usually in front of you for very long before turning off anyway.

[@TheDantheman12121]

The pull push technique is something my instructor tried to instill in me but i just ended up switching back while still in lessons. It is since passing that i got better and started using it.

[@David_Owsnett]

An excellent video Ashley.

[@bentennyson2398]

I use crosshands for really tight junctions, and push pull for everything else suchas roundabouts.

[@lauraireson6358]

I’ve found myself doing the same. I only did push pull until I passed, which was only a few weeks ago. I’ve found myself now naturally crossing my hands for things such as getting out of my driveway, but push pull is still what is most comfortable in most situations.

[@bentennyson2398]

@@lauraireson6358 It's so much easier combining the two methods rather than relying on just one for every situation.

[@hoodnationproductions]

I do a bit of both

[@RichO1701e]

Regarding the whole "injury from airbags deploying" myth, I believe it's an extension from some old American data that some people suffered injuries to thumbs over the airbag area. I remember an episode of Mythbusters that tested chicken bone, flesh fingered(it's as gruesome as it sounds) hands over the airbag. The main myth coming from broken thumbs in rare cases where the driver was using "quarter to 2" wheel grip position on the steering wheel. I think they said it could be PLAUSIBLE, but unlikely. So I'd agree with you, there is no chance of injury by using the crossover technique.

[@derekheeps1244]

From working in the Fire Service I can say that I have seen people who were wearing short sleeved garments , therefore bare arms , get minor abrasions ( almost friction burns ) from airbags , but no worse than seat belt bruising you will get in a hard crash ; both are hugely preferable to broken noses , smashed teeth , if you hit the wheel , or lacerated faces if you go through the screen ( although that was more of a thing with toughened glass screens , which were phased out from the 70s for laminated ones ) .

[@rexmedorum]

Where I learnt to drive both were taught with some discussion on when which one is more appropriate. By the way seriously good luck trying to react to a slide (ice, oil etc) with pull-push method!

[@phillipsiviter2024]

Push, pull technique in use here for majority of the time, although in tight manoeuvring I sometimes use crossed hands.

[@1988dgs]

I was taught push pull by a police pursuit driver just over 30 years ago and still use it, it’s faster and more precise than hand over hand or one handed on the “wrong side of the wheel” (even on the right side of the wheel one handed can oscillate if you hit a bump)

[@chrisgale5634]

I recall my instructor 30 odd years ago waa very anti crossing hands and it was considered a major sin! This was a common view at the time.

[@1988dgs]

At the time power steering was a rarity and when you crossed your arms you ran out of strength in a car seating position, it was standard in trucks/busses etc due to the flatter steering wheel

[@nickedney1272]

Have just started watching your videos Ashley and I have learned a few things, even though I passed my test in 1977. Just a thought though on the crossing of hands technique and the airbag. ...it apparently deploys at a speed of 100 to 220 miles per hour, so I I certainly wouldn't like my arms in the way if it went off. I might end up re-shaping my face with my own fists.

[@cmben6966]

I get comments from my family for using the push pull method, I find it much more controlled and easy that crossing hands

[@leelaa2665]

i've just came up with my own hybrid depending on the turn required. though my hands don't really cross as much. But it works for me and i'm never having to put to much effort into turning the wheel.

[@U2QuoZepplin]

This is a really interesting one. I would not think there were advantages to either but I may be wrong.

[@chrishartley1210]

I think that in larger vehicles, and older vehicles without power steering, the higher number of turns lock to lock makes the crossed hands technique more practical although once again this would normally only be at quite low speeds.

[@noelward8047]

Nice video and discussion, I like. Crossing hands has never been one for me. Try the Push-Push technique ... that's interesting.

[@martinbutchers9497]

Once again I agree with you 100% Ashley. I hate it when someone comes to you from someone else and they are flailing the steering around. They do one massive pull and you feel like you’re going to be put upon a roundabout island or a curb. I feel when you push / pull you look more relaxed and are more relaxed and in more control . I even believe when you were using push/ pull you look relaxed and in more control, when you weren’t you didn’t look so comfortable. Don’t know if there’s any evidence but I feel that if you are push pulling and get halfway round the corner and a child step you can change your steering course quicker. I believe this as both hands are working in the wheel instead of one after the other. When I passed my test 40 odd years ago the first thing I said to myself was I’m not gonna push /pull anymore because it was a badge that said I was a learner. Tried it once and nearly went up on the path and said never again and I haven’t crossed my hands since. That’s nothing to do with being an instructor that’s the way I am as a person, I just feel out of control crossing my hands.

[@Species1571]

Look up "degloving", a particularly gruesome injury that can happen if you have your hands in the wrong place when the airbag deploys (finish your dinner first). I read somewhere a while back that because of this, it is no longer advised to use "10 and 2" hand position, and they also went as far as to advise keeping your thumbs on the outside edge of the wheel rather than hooking them around the inside edge.

[@marcuscross8051]

I've recently been trying to use the pull push method more because I like how it causes me to go slower when turning.

[@rogiermaas]

I use both methods. When I'm driving straight/fast, I'll use the Push Pull method. When I'm on roundabouts or sharp corners, I'll use the Crossing Hands method. But as soon as I've turned my steering wheel, I'm not going to sit with my hands crossed. That's just silly. I'll return them in anticipation of having to turn the steering wheel again, using whatever method I see fit for that. So no worries with using any controls like the indicators or anything. When I'm using the Crossing Hands method, I've already signaled. And when I'm leaving a roundabout, my hands will be in the starting position, ready to indicate my exit. Also, take a close look at your steering using the Pull Push method: I've found that using that method, whilst not yet finished steering and taking over with your other hand, your steering wheel stops for a brief moment, giving your passengers not a good time swinging from left to right. This also happens in this video when you do the Figure-8. Using the Crossing Hand method, I can fluently turn my steering wheel all the way from left-lock to right-lock in one go without it stopping, making for a smoother turn. And it's also less work, to be honest. Mind you: I'm a bus driver and buses tend to have more steering action necessary for it to go from all the way left to all the way right. The Push Pull method really isn't going to work in that scenario. I have tried it though, and have been for the past few months since I've heard you talking about it, but I just can't steer quick enough. My hands bump into each other and my steering wheel stops briefly when I take over with the other hand, causing my passengers to have to deal with the lateral forces it causes.

[@RadioJonophone]

My car and PSV driver training were over 55 years ago. Pull-push was obligatory, crossing was forbidden. The reasoning went thus (bearing in mind the was no power steering): (1) There is a direct connection between the road wheels and the steering wheel. (2) Movements of the steering wheel affect the road wheels, and the road wheels transmit bumps and uneven surfaces back to the steering wheel. (3) Two hands on the steering wheel maintains maximum control. Left hand for gear change, or right hand for signals out of the window, to be undertaken at judicious times. (Remember this was the 1960s, hand-signals were part of the test) (4) Pull-push maintains both hands contact for instantaneous action should the steering be jarred by an external force; crossed hands forces one-handed steering for part of your manoeuvre, so creating a vulnerability. I've always stuck with that since then and never experienced any problems. The advantage always seemed to me to be that of maximum control - minimum surprise.

[@PedroConejo1939]

I'm ashamed to admit that I have been labouring under the effects of poor instruction for years: it was drilled into me from the outset never to let a hand go past 12 o'clock when feeding the wheel and _never_ to allow my hands to cross. Try doing that in an old VW bus! That has hindered me for decades at manoeuvring speeds and has led to me adopting a one-handed technique _at very low speed_ (the advent of power steering has made this much easier, though just as wrong). I am pleased to see a professional demonstrating the correct method reaching across to one or two o'clock for pull-push. After 46 years of driving, I finally have an example to work to. Thank you Ashley.

[@artemkatelnytskyi]

I have seen examples where instructors tell pupils to never let hand cross the 12 o'clock position, and I think it is a terrible instruction. Pupils tend to take things far too literally and they become afraid of crossing hands where it may be appropriate and it may cause problems.

[@rogerpinnock6847]

Already experienced several people using overhand steering and “running out of hands” on very sharp junctions where they then needed to change gear as well. Nearly ended up in a ditch both times. Too fast in, not selected right gear before turning, but also in a tangle!

[@daze1945]

The Pull Push method was called the "Slide Through" method when I learnt to drive many years ago. As Ashley mentions it does make more sense when you consider the placement of indicator and wiper controls of most modern cars. As a thought, I wonder if the USA favour the hand over method due to the fact most of their road turnings/junctions are right angles rather than bends and the vast majority of their cars are automatic and so no need for manual gear change? (I'm not suggesting changing gear when going around a bend or turning!).

[@paull7725]

I was taught hand over hand to do a significant steering (90 degrees in a junction or parking - always slow speed). I discovered push and pull for such manoeuvres in the uk. The only downside I can think of for the pull push is when the driver has both of hands at the bottom of the wheel - palms and wrists facing up. I don’t think that in this position there’s enough control on the wheel in case there is a need for an emergency manoeuvre.

[@raymondbenjamins5884]

Here in the Netherlands I was taught both methods and they told me to use whichever I prefer. I notice I use both, but I never really think about it when steering. It's never caused me any issues and when I need to operate my controls, my hands are in that position.

[@renataavgeri1132]

Me too. Wasn't taught anything in particular but i was doing the crossing arm method as it was more helpful on the cars i drove that had a heavier steering. Now on my car i usually use the push pull method or the one hand steering when im parking. I don't really think about it though so im not sure😂

[@Timooooooooooooooo]

Thanks for the info Ashley! This made me remember that my driving instructor told me to keep my hands on the wheel when you stop at a traffic light, at least until the vehicle behind you has come to a stop, because it's safer in case they rear end you. This video makes me think the opposite might be true, that it's safer to let go of the wheel when you're stopped. Do you have any thoughts on this?

[@steffanwilson2605]

The push pull method is fine if you're new to driving and drive a bit slower than a confident and more experienced driver, but it can be difficult to take a sharp corner smoothly with that method. After passing its probably best to try the cross arm method and use both methods when it's best to use them

[@jimf4748]

As someone who drove over 30,000 business miles each year for more than 30 years I would say the Pull Push method is much more relaxing. I've noticed people who cross hands tend to lean or lift their back of the seat which can be more tiring, but you have to use whatever works for you.

[@NotQuiteMelvin]

If you have to lean to reach your wheel you're sitting wrong

[@mysterymonkey]

I’ve been driving 26 years and up and til recently I’ve always crossed my hands. I had a bad experience where I was pulling right out of a junction and the wheel slipped out my hand and of course self centred and I almost had an accident. I now use the push pull method, I find it much more fluid and controllable and it feels much more satisfying. I will admit I’m not the slowest of drivers when it’s safe to do so but I know when speed is a definite no no!

[@johnkeepin7527]

I normally use the method you prefer, except in some low speed moves during which in my car it’s often right hand only, with fingers and palm with no loss of contact, given the way the power steering works. Which leads me to the point that some drivers (essentially disabled in some way people) always have to steer one hand only, often with minor modifications; I can remember two of them I knew which had knobs added to the steering wheel to assist that technique. One was paralysed and could not use his legs, and the other had limited use of one arm.

[@1daddyDA]

Always taught push pull but with reference to the Driving Manual of the time added that ‘hand over hand’ or cross hand steering was fine for low manoeuvring speeds as you said. What I hate to see is ‘palming the wheel’.Yes even I can do it but what of your hand slips? There are still some who that crossing hands gets more lock on quicker. Not sure I would agree.

[@SongDesire]

Smooth steering input and appropriate speed is always the best way to approach things, no matter the corner. It saves on tire wear, saves on stress, and makes for a much nicer journey for any passengers. Not to mention safer. I believe the whole reason the Pull Push technique is taught, is so you have both hands on the steering wheel as much as possible; so that you are "more in control" should the worst happen. As its easier to correct an issue if both hands are on the steering wheel. I do use the overhand method when turning around on the street I live. Its a two car road with so many parked cars on it, that there is no safe spaces to do a proper turning in road manouver. So some really odd slow speed car gymnastics are called for a lot of the time, though where possible I will use a neighbours driveway. In which case I revert back to pull/push. But I do this with as little speed as possible. My driving instructor taught me that the slower you are moving while doing a slowspeed or parking manouver, the easier it is to turn more. And he proved the point by making me do the turning in the road manouver on the worst known street for it in the town where I learnt to drive as practice. Will soon have my own driveway, so this issue with residential parking will soon be a thing of the past :D

[@chrislarge8704]

Thinking about it, I do use all techniques dependant on circumstances, but primarily use push-pull. As Ashley demonstrates - make use of ALL of the wheel loosely instead of "padding" around gripping just the top part.

[@bazzacuda_]

From watching other people (colleagues) driving, I think some people don't do the initial hand adjustment in preparation. So they start the maneuvre from where their hands sit in straight driving rather than moving up to the top for the initial pull.

[@chrisgermann6658]

In my mind for the sake of a new driver push pull done correctly is essential i used this approach for a good few months however if i must be honest i do personally prefer crossing arms as it feels more natural now im more experienced. I think a big factor to take away is correct speed for the correct road and being able to have a good solid judgement on approaching junctions etc as mentioned on the video it can have a dramatic effect on the cars behaviour as it negotiates corners.

[@Richard_Barnes]

As long as you’re in control the whole time and not just letting the wheel slide all the time, then both methods are good 👍🏻🙂

[@andyxox4168]

Yeah, never let the wheel slide, you’ll be out of control quicker that Ken Block can spell ‘gymkhana’ 😂😂😂

[@0Tex0]

I was told on a Track day at Knockhill that the cross hands technique was only needed on track and to continue using push pull on road as you should never really be in a position to need it. During collision where the airbag deployed and I broke my hand ( two of the metacarpals) caused by my right hand being pushed off the wheel and back handing the door, Small price to pay considering the damage that could have occurred otherwise.

[@JimT-RCT]

I honestly think I use both interchangeably. The only time I'm sure I used crossing my hands was while reversing my truck, and that involved very fast turning at some places, especially when backing up an "A" frame in a tight yard. None of it is a conscious thing though, and although it can be hurried with a truck, it is still easily within my capabilities. I had in the past tried the knob on the steering wheel, but that was not really as good,

[@harrydebling1]

Thanks Ashley. I use and prefer to see pull push steering as it is what is in roadcraft and essential skills. Rotational steering is mentioned in roadcraft, but was mainly put in there to please Sir John Whitmore. Chris Gilbert actually wrote an article on pull push steering. Not sure if you have read the article.

[@RoamingAdhocrat]

"Rotational steering" - is this holding the wheel at 9 and 3 (or 9 and 12 anticipating turning right, or 12 and 3 anticipating turning left) and not letting go or moving either hand negotiating a bend on faster but curving roads?

[@marklittler784]

Had a 2003 Toyota Avensis with built in sat nav high up in the dash but to my surprise the newer model had a larger one but positioned much lower down which personally I thought more potentially dangerous.

[@steve5772]

A few years ago, I have some track tuition and they encouraged cross-hands steering. After a lot of years of doing pull-push, I was terrible at trying to do rotational steering. The only time I can get on with it is in a goods vehicle, where you're sitting more over the wheel. The one massive benefit to pull-push, like you say, is it means you're always in a good place if you make a misjudgment on steering and need to correct (or find something in the road mid-bend that you weren't expecting), I'd also argue that it has the same effect if you need to smoothly deal with a loss of traction in a corner.

[@kevinfairclough4619]

Please let me know which track tuition this was, it’s extremely unusual to get told that. There is no need to ever move your hands from a fixed contact (at 9/3) on the wheel

[@robchissy]

i've always wondered what happens to the centre piece of a steering wheel in a crash, as i've never had 1, i would worry in a crash the centre piece would smack you in the face lol, i learned something today, thank you

[@nitramluap]

There is an even better way I learned when doing several advanced driver training sessions with BMW (instructors were ex-police drivers & ex-racers): Essentially your hand always contact the wheel in two places only (3 o'clock - always the right hand, & 9 o'clock - always the left hand). It has the advantage of you knowing EXACTLY where centre is without looking and you can go from lock to lock very, very quickly. It's 'almost' like the 'crossing hands' method you show but you never actually have your arms crossed when both hands are touching the wheel at all AND your left hand ONLY holds the wheel at the 9 o'clock spoke, and right hand ONLY holds the wheel at the 3 o'clock spoke. It's a fantastic technique.

[@tommih597]

I think I would always use the push pull technique when driving normally and hand over hand for u-turns or slow speed larger manoeuvring.

[@wandpj]

@James Stewart Don't turn your wheel to full lock at standstill.

[@piciu256]

@@wandpj what?!?

[@davidstewart5842]

@James Stewart my brother is called. James. I’m A Stewart.

[@ldarm]

Pull push is great for driving at speed, carparks love a crossover and one-handed window washing is perfect for reversing into me driveway

[@muzzthegreat]

On Crossed-arms - if you crash, the airbag has plenty of power and will throw your arms into your face or the roof breaking your arms or nose - but yes I might cross-arms in really tight turns such as reversing into a space or some slow things with a trailer. Pull-Push - When you think about it, it's surprising how-often you have heard your hands sliding on the wheel - the leather on my six year old steering-wheel is now gloss - it once had texture.

[@Khaisz.]

Once I was comfortable driving I just started using whatever hand method I wanted too while driving, be it crossing hands, pull push, something else with both hands or just use 1 hand because I need to shift gear while turning or I can't be bothered using both hands.

[@zocca0134]

Great video! I would like to know your opinion about using both feet to drive (especially cars with an automatic transmission). Some time ago I had an argument on the internet about it: do you think it is safer or can actually be dangerous?

[@GreboGent]

I think a lot of the myths surrounding air bag worries stem from earlier air bag design where I had heard of people getting injuries because of how much force the air bag exerted, however modern cars have several stages of airbag deployment depending on your weight/size/seat position, as well just more air bags around the whole vehicle

[@williamfence566]

Use push pull all the time now since qualifying as a HGV driver mainly due to more control as the weight transfers during cornering and roundabouts . With the advent of much heavier SUV's being popular weight transfer is still proportionate to the speed you are travelling and basic physics.

[@ashley_neal]

That's a very good point that I didn't think about for heavy vehicles! Thanks

[@williamfence566]

@@ashley_neal Been driving a long time and love your content . Never too old to learn.

[@thrupnybit]

I remember my very first lesson on a public road negotiating a series of left/rights my instructor commented, "Good, don't have to worry about steering then." I must have used the pull/push method and not crossed my hands. I have since developed some sloppy steering habits, mainly palming when parking , but putting my hand inside the wheel, all too common here in the US, is not one of them.

[@ProgRock_]

The whole (which seems to a very british centric discussion) argument of crossing your hands vs feeding the wheel is splitting at hairs at this point. It is a very situational action and decision of driver in what will be the most effective. Feeding the wheel is absolutely fine for normal driving circumstances which will be 90% of time on the road. I only ever cross my hands if I'm turning around in the road mostly although id be interested to see what you think of people who use the bottom palm of their hand to spin the wheel quickly. I have done it myself but again only I'm turning the around in the road.

[@TechItOut]

What do you say to thse who look to motorsports wich tends to use the overhand technique. I use both. As you in normal driving but overhand for tight right and left hand turns or the smaller mini roundabouts.

[@ryanwalker6849]

I use pull push, the reason being is it’s much easier to slowly introduce the steering in a pendulum motion whilst applying the acceleration to keep the car balanced when cornering. Hand over hand isn’t as easy to be “introduced gradually” just because of the nature of it.

[@MK-1973]

Great video as always. Pull push wins out for me every time - I've got so used to it I find it really hard to go back to crossed hands except occasionally at very low speeds. I do think pull push is more precise and controlled. The key thing is as you demonstrated that it's 'pull push' not the other way round and you have to move your hand up and then pull in the direction you want to steer. If you do that smoothly and then feed the wheel through your hands then, as you show, its effortless. We should all avoid letting the wheel 'spin' when straightening though.

[@lynnsmith7371]

I’ve always used the push-pull as I find it more relaxed so I feel less stressed. Lifting hand off and placing back feels jerky.

[@zzhughesd]

Push pull good technique definitely aids considered thoughtful defensive driving. Allows extra time observe other road users controls vehicle firmly. It feels secure. Not stupid. Feels solid purposeful safe.

[@ernestbywater411]

I liked this video, however, the pull-push method you use is a little different to what I was taught when I did a High Speed / Evasion / Pursuit Driving Course back in the early 1970 (pre airbag era so I can't address that aspect). Numbered positions are given as if the wheel is a clock face. The driver sits with their back upright, hips at 90 degrees with knees bent as required to reach the pedals, the elbows are at 90 degrees with the hands on the wheel and the shoulder bent as required for the hands to be on the wheel. With Push-Push system I was taught you grip the wheel at the 10 - 2 position with your thumbs along the whee and not inside the wheel circle. When turning you push the wheel in the direct you're going with the hand on the opposite side while the other hand slides up the wheel to grasp the wheel at the 12 position, at that point the sliding hand grasps the wheel and pulls down while the other hand lets the wheel slide through it, if it's a tight turn you slide the first hand back to the 2 position and grasps the wheel again to start another push movement as the other hand slides back to the 12 position. When straightening out the whole things is reversed. The reasoning I was given for using the system was NOT that it was faster, but that it was safer because at all times you had one hand on the wheel in a position where you can control the wheel with strength, due to the position of the arms, regardless of what happens as when at high speed things can happen very fast and often unexpectedly - especially if you're evading another vehicle trying to force you off the road, or the reverse. Over the many years since then I've found the solid grip on the wheel you develop with a good push-pull system to be very handy when a tyre blows out or a wheel falls off (yes, I've had both happen to me). Having a strong grip meant I retained good control. One thing they pointed out with crossing the hands is they can get in the way of each other when wanting to move the hands around the wheel in a hurry. As to the airbags: I don't know if this is still true, but when they first started fitting airbags to cars here we were told it was to reduce neck, head, and face injuries as while the seatbelts stopped people from hitting their chests on the steering wheels the incidents where the head snapped forward to make contact with the top of the wheel went up very dramatically and so did the cases of neck injuries. The first airbags were designed to pop out of the steering wheel or the passenger dash area to inflate and cushion the head and face from impact and reduce the amount of movement of the head to reduce whiplash and neck injuries. Since then other airbags have been added to reduce sideways injuries from side on impacts. There are only 3 types of airbag related injuries I've seen reported on: (a) Where people had a tight grasp of the steering wheel with their thumbs wrapped around the inside of the wheel and the thumbs got broken as the airbag deployed and pushed the arms out of the way faster than they could let go of the wheel, thus their thumbs got broken when the arms were shoved away to the sides by the airbag. (b) Where people drove with the crossing arms system and the deploying airbag shoved their arms into their face to result with bruises and other minor injuries from their hands and arms hitting their face. I've heard of a few black eyes from those types of events. (c) With some of the early airbags they took too long to deflate after being deployed and some people had breathing issues until the bags could be deflated.

[@hughraynor8670]

My car has a progressive steering rack, and so fixed-grip steering works for the vast majority of bends as arm-crossing isn't required. For corners, and when maneuvering, fixed-grip isn't suitable, and so pull-push (not push-pull!) works well. From a ten-to-two position, a lot of corners are perfectly possible without first taking a 12 o'clock hold position - which I tend to reserve only for very significant turns. Roadcraft suggests pull-push for police drivers responding to incidents - so if it works for the most highly trained and technically competent drivers on our roads, it works for me too!

[@AndrewGruffudd]

I was watching a video about train signals passed at danger, and one of the issues was irritation with the root cause being marital issues etc. It might be useful to have a video about how to maintain driving zen, especially for non-car people. Personally, I find driving to be a pleasure and all the cares in the world aside from those I need to concentrate on behind the wheel tend to dissipate, but those who see cars as just a means for getting from A to B might find their attentions drifting elsewhere. Also, the lady in the Delta cab was probably saying "that man's talking to himself"...

[@beannanjones5602]

I like the impartial way you looked at this irrationally hotly contested debate. Just a few thoughts I have had on the matter. I believe the reason crossing is slightly faster is due to it being one continuous movement in a single direction, as opposed to the pull push which involves an up/down back and forth which is mechanically slower. But I totally agree with your statement that if you are turning the wheel so fast that the slight difference matters, you have probably done something wrong on the road (or are in a bad situation). I think the other reason that cross over may be more popular is as a holdover from the days before power steering. you can generate more force with it than with pull push, as you are more mechanically efficient pulling from that position than pushing. I think someone below also mentioned it. but obviously we all have power steering now so it doesn't matter. I also agree that reaching controls like indicators can be easier with pull push. In regards to crashes, or the steering wheel otherwise hurting your hands, the only things I have heard is a theory that if you rest your hands on the frame of the wheel with thumbs covering the centre, you are at risk of losing thumbs to the airbag in a crash. This seems more plausible to me, especially since a lot of people sit with their hands on the wheel like that while cruising down the motorway (right before they hit something). As far as the shock going up your arms that also seems a pretty real risk. As far as I understand, a lot of racing drivers are taught to let go if a crash is imminent so as to avoid this very problem. Also as a crash or impact can turn the wheel suddenly and wrench your wrists. If you ever do offroad driving you might also be told to keep thumbs outside the wheel, as if you are on rocky terrain, the wheel can snap and give you a clatter...

[@Goodstegosaurus]

I've always used the cross over arms method, but I was racing cars at the age of 15 so I was taught that on the ARDs test before I learned to drive on the road, so now it feels more natural to me. It also allows you to steer more precisely and react to things more quickly from my experience.

[@piciu256]

@James Stewart more precisely as in react quicker probably.

[@Jet.Set.Go.]

Most use the crossing hands method, but in my driving lesson in the UK I was taught that you would likely fail your test for crossing hands? This was a few days ago, and when it was explained, it is a minor fault but if you do it 3 times in one manouvre then you fail.

[@EmmEss2904]

In 1967, I was a young Police Officer taking a Police driving course. We were taught that it was a cardinal sin to ever adopt the "cross-hand boogie" technique - for several reasons, the most important one of which was a matter of control and safety. With the CHB technique there are frequent and longer periods when the steering wheel has only one hand on it. It is worth remembering, however, that power steering was still by no means common then - and steering wheels tended to be quite a bit larger - and thinner - and unpadded in comparison, all of which had a bearing on ease of manipulation.

[@blurpderp5826]

I found that when I was learning to drive there was far too much emphasis on teaching me how to turn the wheel which was always quite intuitive for me. I was given the impression that I was supposed to follow the ten to two method rigidly or else I could fail my test. So I found myself overthinking something that was not that complicated. This made learning the other aspects of safe driving a little more difficult. For example, shuffling the wheel ten to two felt very silly while turning on a tight roundabout when I needed to change gear. I wish my driving instructor at the time told me that the technique was recommended but that I could be more flexible with how I steer.

[@RoamingAdhocrat]

I used pull-push religiously for almost 20 years, but I happened to skim Roadcraft a few weeks ago and it advised holding the wheel at 9 and 3 and not moving your hands when driving on awkward windy rural roads. Used this on a trip across Wales and it was transformational - much more control, much more comfortable, much less exhausting! Obviously, urban driving, you need big steering angles and 10-2 pull-push. And motorway driving just needs 10-2.

[@RoamingAdhocrat]

You can see on the wheel, the moulded bits at about 10 and 2 for your thumbs to rest on while holding the wheel at 9 and 3

[@azzyzaidi4393]

I used to be a big fan of the push pull technique but then i did a high speed circuit drive and also a stint on a skid pan where the road purposely jolts the car left or right. In that scenario where you need to correct the car quickly and keep the car straight, neither steering method worked quick enough. Happy to be proved wrong. Would love to see Ashley at the Porsche Experience centre and use either method on the skid pan. If he can keep the car straight using either technique i will eat my words

[@ashley_neal]

Challenge accepted!

[@tomphillips7207]

I learnt to drive in France where no one teaches the pull-push technique. I use it sometimes, though, depending on the situation.

[@johnbower7452]

Some research has suggested that 20 to 4 is now safer with modern airbags; as at 10 to 2 it can break your arms. True or not? Don't know but might be worth a look at. As to the speed there is a video here on YT of an old lady hitting a Merc with her handbag because he got impatient and used the horn at her; his airbag went off.

[@Asto508]

I don't even know what I'm doing tbh, I never specifically learned a steering technique but just did what came natural to me. I think I'm doing neither of those in their "pure form", but I will observe me next time when I'm driving. For sharper turns, I think I just grab the steering wheel at the far end on the other side and pull all the way through and if needed my other hand (waiting patiently at the bottom of the wheel) will take over and push the wheel further without actually crossing my other hand. Maybe I'm also sliding the wheel through the inactive hand while doing that, don't know, haha. I think this works for me because I tend to have my hands in the lower half of the steering wheel most of the time (I think people call this 8-4) and only go up on turns or when using the indicators or wipers. So, usually this is enough for a complete 1 1/2 spins to the left or the right when in the center position. I can't recall when I ever needed to quickly steer from the left max to the right max (some kind of sharp hairpin on a race track maybe?) but it could be that in this case, I would probably cross the hands once.

[@ProdigalPorcupine]

I’m wondering if the airbag hitting crossed arms could reduce the cushioning effect on your upper body and face, or perhaps even force your arms into your face. Are airbags designed to safely impact body parts at such close proximity as crossed arms would have? It could surely tear tendons and cause dislocations, I’d expect?