How to measure for a side-entry garage turn

Good inputs matter more than extra decimal places in the model. Measure the physical constraints the vehicle actually sees.

1. Garage opening width

Measure the narrowest clear width between fixed jambs or trim at the height the vehicle body will pass. Do not use the nominal door size if framing, tracks or trim reduce the opening.

2. Apron depth

Measure perpendicular from the garage face to the closest hard opposite boundary. If the edge is curved or landscaped, use the limiting point in the turn zone.

3. Overall vehicle length and body width

Use manufacturer dimensions for the specific body style and model year. For width, use body width for the simulation and separately check mirrors.

4. Wheelbase

Use the axle-to-axle wheelbase for the exact configuration. This is particularly important for pickups, vans and long-wheelbase variants.

5. Turning circle

Use the published curb-to-curb turning diameter when available. If a source reports radius instead, double it before entering a diameter.

6. Safety margin

Pick a margin that reflects measurement uncertainty and daily use. Tight results should be physically verified with cones or a professional swept-path model.