Understanding the Key Differences Between Oversteer and Understeer

Oversteer and understeer are vehicle dynamics terms that refer to how sensitive the car handles and turns. Oversteering is best defined as when the vehicle veers more than you command it to do. Conversely, understeering refers to when a vehicle does not turn and ends up off of the road.

Rear-wheel-drive vehicles are more likely to experience oversteer while front-wheel-drive vehicles are more likely to experience understeer. Understeer is the result of not enough grip while oversteer occurs when the front part of the vehicle experiences more grip than the backside. While oversteering that happens during everyday driving is not anything to worry about, the condition occurring during inclement road conditions could be dangerous.

The automotive maneuverability experts at Truck Town want you to understand the difference between these two concepts so that you can enjoy a safe and pleasant driving experience every time you take to the roads.