Does Parking an Automatic Car on a Slope Cause Damage to the Vehicle?

[MacJoseph]

Parking an automatic car on a slope can cause damage to the vehicle. Short-term parking on a slope has minimal impact, but long-term parking can cause significant harm, primarily affecting the handbrake system and the vehicle's suspension. Impact on the Handbrake System: The handbrake typically uses a steel cable to pull the brake shoes and secure the vehicle. When parked on a slope, the handbrake cable continuously bears the component of the vehicle's weight parallel to the slope. Over time, this can cause the cable to "fatigue," becoming increasingly loose and reducing the locking force of the handbrake until it loses its braking performance. Impact on the Vehicle's Suspension: When parked on a slope, the suspension on the downhill side bears greater pressure. While short-term effects are negligible, prolonged exposure can lead to premature aging of the front and rear suspension. Suspension aging affects ride comfort, may cause unusual noises when going over speed bumps, and can impair the vehicle's handling and tire lifespan.