Can I Not Engage the Handbrake When in P Gear?
2 Answers
You can not engage the handbrake when shifting to P gear because P gear is both a neutral gear and has a braking mechanism. The direct function of shifting to P gear is parking. When stopping on a level road, shifting to P gear puts the car's transmission in a neutral operating state, completely interrupting the power transmission between the engine and the output shaft. Function of P Gear: P gear is both a neutral gear and has a braking mechanism, so the direct function of shifting to P gear is parking. When stopping on a level road, shifting to P gear puts the car's transmission in a neutral operating state, completely interrupting the power transmission between the engine and the output shaft. Shifting Tips: When waiting at a red light, you can shift to N gear instead of staying in D gear with the brake pedal pressed. In the event of a rear-end collision, the car may be impacted and move forward, potentially damaging the transmission. Therefore, if the waiting time at a red light is long, you can shift to N gear and engage the handbrake.
I've been driving for over 30 years and know that parking safety shouldn't be taken lightly. While the P gear does lock the transmission and wheels, if you don't engage the handbrake when parking on a slope, the vehicle can easily slide. I once saw my neighbor's car parked on an incline with only the P gear engaged - when the road got slippery from rain, the car slowly slid downhill and nearly hit the curb. The reason is that the P gear's locking pin can't bear the full weight of the car, and prolonged use like this will accelerate transmission wear, leading to expensive repairs. Even on flat ground, I recommend using the handbrake as it distributes pressure and protects vehicle components. After making it a habit, I always engage the handbrake when parking to ensure safety for myself and others. Car design requires dual protection - this also extends vehicle lifespan and reduces unnecessary repair costs. In short, safety comes first - don't skip this step.
