understeeroversteer

Understeer and oversteer are terms used in vehicle dynamics to describe a car's tendency to follow a cornering path different from what the driver intends. Understeer occurs when the vehicle's front wheels lose grip before the rear wheels, causing the car to turn less sharply than desired. The driver must reduce steering angle or apply throttle to correct it. This is often described as the car "plowing" or pushing wide. Understeer is generally considered safer and more predictable than oversteer, as it naturally reduces the turning force.

Oversteer, conversely, happens when the rear wheels lose grip before the front wheels, causing the car to turn more sharply than intended. The rear of the car slides outward, potentially leading to a spin. Oversteer requires counter-steering and throttle control to manage. It can be initiated deliberately by experienced drivers for performance driving techniques like drifting.

The balance between understeer and oversteer is influenced by factors such as tire condition, suspension setup, weight distribution, speed, and steering input. Most production cars are designed with a slight tendency towards understeer for stability. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for safe driving and for drivers participating in performance driving or motorsport.