Correct Method for Parking an Automatic Transmission Vehicle
3 Answers
Correct steps for parking an automatic transmission vehicle: 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 2. Keep the brake pedal depressed and shift the gear to N (Neutral). 3. Engage the parking brake, then release the foot brake. 4. Shift to P (Park). 5. Turn off the engine. Compared to manual transmission vehicles, automatic transmission cars have an additional P gear when parking. The purposes of P and N gears are as follows: 1. P gear can be understood as N gear with an additional locking gear. The P gear was originally designed for long-term parking. 2. The N gear was designed for short-term (temporary) parking. When a car is in N gear (neutral), it can move if subjected to external force. When in P gear, the locking gear can secure the output shaft gear in the transmission, effectively immobilizing the stationary vehicle.
I've been driving for many years, and this is the sequence I always follow when parking an automatic transmission car: When the car comes to a complete stop, keep your foot on the brake pedal, then engage the parking brake to secure the vehicle with the braking system. Next, shift the gear from D to P, but don't rush to shift into P gear, otherwise the entire weight of the car will press on the transmission, which can cause damage over time. Finally, turn off the engine and shut down all electrical appliances like the air conditioning and lights to save power and protect the battery. Remember, when parking on a slope, after engaging the parking brake, check if the wheels turn towards the curb to prevent rolling. I follow this routine every time I park, and developing this habit makes the car run smoother and reduces transmission maintenance costs. I also remind my friends not to step on the accelerator before shifting into P or to leave the parking brake loose—these actions can make the car slide around, which is very dangerous, especially in crowded places like shopping mall parking lots. If an accident happens, it would be a big hassle. In short, safety comes first, and paying attention to small details can significantly extend the life of your car.
As a car enthusiast who loves tinkering with vehicles, I believe parking methods are crucial for transmission health. The correct procedure is to firmly press the brake to come to a complete stop, then immediately engage the handbrake to lock the wheels - this step is critical. Next, shift into P gear to relieve pressure from the transmission; finally, turn off the engine. If you reverse this order and shift into P gear first, the transmission gears bear the entire vehicle's weight, which over time can lead to abnormal noises or difficulty shifting gears. I once experienced incorrect parking that cost me thousands in repairs. I also make sure to turn off the air conditioning before parking to reduce engine load; in winter, it's fine to turn it off after starting the engine next time. Remember to check the brake system every six months to ensure the handbrake is tight enough. These small habits keep my car running as smoothly as new.