Four-wheel steering is when the rear wheels turn in conjunction with the front wheels, the set primarily tasked with steering function. In fact, 4-wheel steering is sometimes called “rear-wheel steering” or “all-wheel steering.”
Sports cars mainly employ this technology for improved handling and stability, where the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels. Given its added cost, this feature appears most among the luxury car set. However, 4-wheel steering is also becoming more common on pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUVs). The technology can be used for counter-steering when backing up to or with a trailer. During counter-steering, the rear wheels turn opposite to the front. These vehicles can also use 4-wheel steering to navigate technical terrain, enabling “crab walking,” as seen on the GMC Hummer EV.
Four-wheel steering should not be confused with 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, which are drivetrain technologies that distribute power to the axles.
If your steering feels off and seems prone to drift, consider getting the vehicle’s wheel alignment checked by a licensed technician. If you haven’t done this regular maintenance recently, like during tire replacement, see our repair center locator and pricing tool for wheel alignment service.
