How Many Reference Points Are Needed for Parallel Parking?
2 Answers
Parallel parking requires identifying three reference points: 1. First point: Turn your head 135 degrees to the right and look at the wide pillar between the front and rear doors on the right side of the car. Below the rear door window, there is a small black protruding cylindrical lever (each door window has one). When the small cylindrical lever aligns with the front right corner of the parking space, it's time to turn the steering wheel fully to the right. 2. Second point: Using the side mirror, there is an issue where the rear right corner of the parking space appears as an obtuse angle of about 160 degrees in the mirror, almost forming a straight line. This position can also be determined by the intersection of the vertical rod of the rear door triangular window and the yellow line at the rear of the parking space. 3. Third point: The left rear wheel just touches the left line of the parking space. Lean your head to the left to see the left rear wheel pressing against the white dashed line on the left side of the parking space in the mirror. From the driver's position, rotate your head 135 degrees to the left and back to observe where the white dashed line on the ground intersects with the lower edge of the rear door window.
When I park parallel myself, I usually look for several points, typically three key positions. First, make sure the car is parked next to the front car, with the rear aligned to the midline of the front car, which helps leave enough space for reversing. Then, while reversing, pay attention to the rearview mirror. When your rear door handle aligns with the rear car's bumper, that's the first point—immediately turn the steering wheel all the way to the right, and the rear of the car will gradually slide into the gap. The second step is to observe the relationship between the rear window and the curb. When it approaches the curb at a safe distance, straighten the steering wheel and reverse slightly. Finally, adjust the wheels to ensure they don’t touch the cars in front or behind. Before every parking attempt, I check the mirrors and blind spots—safety is the top priority. With more practice, you’ll get the hang of it.
