Where should you position your hands on the steering wheel?

1. 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock position
2. 8 o’clock and 4 o’clock position
3. 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock position, or the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock position ✓
4. 10 o’clock and 3 o’clock position

Answer: C. 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock position, or the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock position

Use the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock grip, or the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock grip.

Why this is the answer

The handbook describes the steering wheel as a clock face and says to keep both hands on the outside at equal height. It gives two main choices: 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock, or 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock, whichever feels more comfortable. It also notes that with an airbag, 9 and 3 or even 8 and 4 may be safer than 10 and 2, but the general rule it states is still the two equal-height positions. That matches the answer offered here.

Why the other answers are wrong

• A. 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock position — The handbook does not give top-and-bottom positions; it calls for both hands on the outside at equal height, which 12 and 6 are not.
• B. 8 o’clock and 4 o’clock position — The 8 o’clock and 4 o’clock position is mentioned only as a possible airbag alternative, not as the general recommended position the handbook states.
• D. 10 o’clock and 3 o’clock position — A 10 o’clock and 3 o’clock grip mixes heights, while the handbook says to keep your hands at an equal height.

Remember it

Picture a clock: keep your hands level, not stacked top and bottom.