How to Become Better at Driving SUV

Becoming better at driving an SUV means mastering its size, weight, and unique handling characteristics. This guide covers essential techniques—from adjusting your seat to navigating tight spaces—so you can drive with confidence, safety, and efficiency.

Key Takeaways

• Adjust your seating and mirrors properly: Proper ergonomics improve visibility, control, and reduce fatigue during long drives.
• Understand your SUV’s center of gravity: Higher ground clearance means more rollover risk—drive smoothly and avoid sharp turns at speed.
• Practice parking in tight spaces: Use rearview cameras, sensors, and reference points to master parallel and perpendicular parking.
• Optimize fuel efficiency: Smooth acceleration, steady speeds, and proper tire pressure can significantly reduce fuel consumption.
• Use driver-assist technologies wisely: Features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist enhance safety but shouldn’t replace attentive driving.
• Adapt to weather and road conditions: SUVs handle differently in rain, snow, or off-road terrain—adjust your driving style accordingly.
• Regular maintenance is crucial: Tire checks, brake inspections, and fluid top-offs keep your SUV performing at its best.

How to Become Better at Driving an SUV

Driving an SUV can be a rewarding experience—offering space, power, and versatility for families, adventurers, and commuters alike. But with great size comes great responsibility. Unlike smaller cars, SUVs have a higher center of gravity, wider turning radius, and different handling dynamics. Whether you’re new to SUVs or looking to refine your skills, this guide will help you become a safer, more confident, and more efficient driver.

In this comprehensive how-to guide, you’ll learn practical techniques to master every aspect of SUV driving—from basic setup and control to advanced maneuvers and maintenance. We’ll cover how to adjust your seat and mirrors, handle tight turns and parking, improve fuel economy, use modern safety features, and adapt to different road and weather conditions. By the end, you’ll feel in full control of your vehicle, no matter where the road takes you.

Let’s get started on your journey to becoming better at driving an SUV.

1. Master the Basics: Setting Up Your SUV for Success

Before you even start the engine, proper setup is key to safe and comfortable driving. SUVs are larger and taller than most cars, so getting your seating and mirrors right makes a big difference.

Adjust Your Seat for Optimal Control

Start by adjusting your seat so you can comfortably reach the pedals while keeping a slight bend in your knees. Your back should be supported, and your shoulders relaxed. Sit high enough that you have a clear view over the dashboard and hood—this is especially important in taller SUVs.

Pro Tip: Use the seat’s lumbar support to reduce back strain on long drives. If your SUV has memory settings, save your preferred position for quick access.

Set Your Mirrors to Eliminate Blind Spots

SUVs have larger blind spots than sedans due to their height and width. Properly adjusted mirrors help you see more of what’s around you.

– Side mirrors: Adjust them so you can just see the edge of your vehicle. Then, lean your head against the window and adjust the mirror until you can barely see the side of the car. This minimizes overlap with the rearview mirror.
– Rearview mirror: Position it to give you the widest possible view out the back window. If your SUV has a rearview camera, use it as a supplement—not a replacement—for checking mirrors.

Familiarize Yourself with the Dashboard and Controls

Take a few minutes to locate essential controls: turn signals, windshield wipers, headlights, climate control, and gear shifter. Many SUVs have additional features like drive modes (Eco, Sport, Snow), traction control, and parking assist. Knowing where these are saves time and stress while driving.

2. Understand Your SUV’s Handling Characteristics

SUVs handle differently than cars. Their higher center of gravity, weight, and size affect how they respond to steering, braking, and cornering.

Be Aware of the Higher Center of Gravity

Because SUVs sit higher off the ground, they’re more prone to rolling over during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. This doesn’t mean they’re unsafe—it means you need to drive more smoothly.

– Avoid sudden steering inputs: Make gradual turns, especially at higher speeds.
– Slow down before corners: Brake in a straight line before entering a turn, then accelerate gently as you exit.
– Watch for wind gusts: Taller vehicles are more affected by crosswinds, especially on highways or open roads.

Account for Increased Weight and Stopping Distance

SUVs are heavier than most cars, which means they take longer to stop. Always leave extra following distance—aim for at least 4 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you in normal conditions, and more in rain or snow.

Example: If you’re driving at 60 mph, your SUV may need 150 feet or more to stop fully. That’s the length of half a football field!

Understand the Turning Radius

Most SUVs have a wider turning radius than sedans. This means they need more space to make U-turns or navigate tight streets.

– Practice in empty parking lots: Try three-point turns and figure-eights to get a feel for how much space your SUV needs.
– Use reference points: Learn where your front and rear wheels are in relation to curbs and obstacles.

3. Improve Your Parking Skills

Parking an SUV can be intimidating, especially in tight urban spaces or crowded lots. But with practice and the right techniques, it becomes second nature.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

Most modern SUVs come equipped with parking aids:

– Rearview cameras: Give you a clear view behind the vehicle. Use the on-screen guidelines to judge distance.
– Parking sensors: Beep faster as you get closer to an object. Some systems even apply the brakes automatically.
– 360-degree cameras: Provide a bird’s-eye view of your surroundings—perfect for tight spots.

Tip: Don’t rely solely on cameras. Always check your mirrors and turn your head to look over your shoulder.

Master Parallel Parking

Parallel parking an SUV is easier when you break it into steps:

1. Pull alongside the car in front of the space: Align your rear bumper with theirs, leaving about 2 feet between vehicles.
2. Reverse slowly while turning the wheel all the way to the right: As your SUV angles into the space, watch the rear passenger-side corner.
3. Straighten the wheel when your front bumper clears the car in front: Continue reversing in a straight line.
4. Turn the wheel to the left to swing the front in: Adjust as needed to center your SUV in the space.

Practice Tip: Use cones or parking lines in an empty lot to simulate real-world conditions.

Tackle Perpendicular and Angle Parking

These are generally easier than parallel parking, but SUVs still need extra space.

– Approach slowly: Use your turn signal early and check mirrors and blind spots.
– Use reference points: For example, when the front of your SUV aligns with the parking line, turn the wheel to guide the rear in smoothly.
– Don’t overcorrect: Small steering adjustments are better than sharp turns.

4. Drive Smoothly for Better Control and Fuel Efficiency

Smooth driving isn’t just more comfortable—it’s safer and saves fuel. Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and speeding waste gas and increase wear on your vehicle.

Practice Gentle Acceleration and Braking

– Accelerate gradually: Press the gas pedal smoothly instead of stomping on it. This reduces strain on the engine and improves fuel economy.
– Brake early and softly: Anticipate stops and ease off the gas early. This gives you more time to react and reduces brake wear.

Example: If you see a red light ahead, take your foot off the gas and let the SUV coast. You’ll save fuel and arrive at the light with less need to brake hard.

Maintain a Steady Speed

Frequent speed changes burn more fuel. Use cruise control on highways to maintain a constant speed, especially on long trips.

– Set cruise control wisely: Only use it on dry, flat roads with light traffic.
– Avoid “hypermiling” techniques: While fuel-saving is good, unsafe practices like drafting behind trucks or coasting in neutral can be dangerous.

Optimize Tire Pressure and Load

Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy and handling.

– Check tire pressure monthly: Use the recommended PSI found on the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual.
– Don’t overload your SUV: Extra weight reduces fuel efficiency and increases braking distance. Remove unnecessary items from the cargo area.

5. Use Driver-Assist Technologies Effectively

Modern SUVs are packed with safety and convenience features. But they’re tools—not replacements for attentive driving.

Understand Common Features

– Blind-spot monitoring: Alerts you when a vehicle is in your blind spot. Use it to double-check before changing lanes.
– Lane-keeping assist: Gently steers you back if you drift out of your lane. Stay alert—don’t rely on it to keep you in lane.
– Adaptive cruise control: Maintains a set distance from the car ahead. Great for traffic, but stay ready to take over.
– Automatic emergency braking: Can stop the car if you don’t react in time. Still, always brake when needed.

Don’t Become Over-Reliant

Technology can fail—cameras get dirty, sensors get blocked, software glitches happen. Always:

– Keep sensors and cameras clean: Wipe them regularly, especially in winter.
– Stay engaged: Keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, even with assist features on.
– Read the manual: Understand how your specific systems work and their limitations.

6. Adapt to Weather and Road Conditions

SUVs are often chosen for their capability in tough conditions, but they still require smart driving adjustments.

Driving in Rain

Wet roads reduce traction and increase stopping distance.

– Slow down: Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 35 mph on standing water.
– Increase following distance: Wet roads can double your stopping distance.
– Use headlights: Even during the day, headlights improve visibility and help others see you.

Driving in Snow and Ice

All-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) helps with traction, but it doesn’t improve braking.

– Accelerate and brake gently: Sudden moves can cause skids.
– Use winter tires: They provide better grip than all-season tires in cold weather.
– Avoid sudden steering: If you start to slide, steer in the direction you want to go—don’t overcorrect.

Off-Road and Gravel Roads

If you take your SUV off the beaten path:

– Engage 4WD or off-road mode: Check your owner’s manual for the correct procedure.
– Reduce speed: Loose surfaces reduce control.
– Watch for obstacles: Use your height advantage to scan ahead, but avoid rocks, ruts, or steep drops.

7. Maintain Your SUV for Peak Performance

Regular maintenance keeps your SUV safe, reliable, and efficient.

Follow the Maintenance Schedule

Your owner’s manual outlines when to service key components:

– Oil changes: Typically every 5,000–7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions.
– Tire rotations: Every 6,000–8,000 miles to ensure even wear.
– Brake inspections: Have them checked annually or if you hear squeaking or grinding.

Check Fluids Regularly

– Engine oil: Check monthly and top off as needed.
– Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid: Inspect levels and condition during oil changes.
– Windshield washer fluid: Keep it full—especially in winter.

Inspect Tires and Brakes

– Tread depth: Use the penny test—insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires.
– Brake pads: Listen for squealing or feel for vibrations when braking.

Troubleshooting Common SUV Driving Challenges

Even experienced drivers run into issues. Here’s how to handle common problems:

“I feel like I’m floating or swaying on the highway.”

This could be due to crosswinds or improper tire pressure. Check tire pressure and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommendation. If the problem persists, have your suspension and alignment checked.

“My SUV pulls to one side.”

This is often a sign of uneven tire pressure, worn tires, or alignment issues. Check tire pressure first, then visit a mechanic if the problem continues.

“Parking sensors keep beeping for no reason.”

Dirt, snow, or ice on the sensors can cause false alerts. Clean the sensors with a soft cloth. If they still malfunction, have them inspected.

“I’m getting worse gas mileage than expected.”

Review your driving habits—frequent speeding, hard braking, and idling can hurt fuel economy. Also, check for underinflated tires or a dirty air filter.

Conclusion

Becoming better at driving an SUV isn’t about mastering one big skill—it’s about refining many small habits that add up to safer, smoother, and more efficient driving. From adjusting your seat and mirrors to understanding your vehicle’s handling, practicing parking, and maintaining it properly, every step counts.

Remember, confidence comes with experience. Spend time in low-stress environments like empty parking lots to build your skills. Use technology as a helpful guide, but never let it replace your attention and judgment. And always adapt your driving to the conditions—whether you’re navigating a tight city street or cruising down a snowy mountain pass.

With the tips and techniques in this guide, you’re well on your way to becoming a more skilled and confident SUV driver. Stay safe, stay alert, and enjoy the journey.