How to Control the Side Distance When Reversing into a Parking Space?
3 Answers
When reversing a car into a parking space, it's important to pay attention to the side distance of the car. You can observe both the left and right rearview mirrors simultaneously. Adjust the car's body to ensure it is parallel and equidistant to the right-side line. When the left rearview mirror and the car body completely align, it indicates that the reversing is completed.
The key to controlling the distance from the side line when reversing into a parking space lies in rearview mirror observation and subtle steering wheel adjustments. From practical driving experience, I've found that this requires slow reversing while constantly checking the side line. It's best to use reference points like the vehicle's edge and the rearview mirror to judge parallelism, such as observing the relative position between the rear wheel and the side line. If the distance is too close, slightly adjust the steering wheel in the opposite direction while maintaining steady speed to avoid overshooting. When first practicing, find an open space and try multiple times. Muscle memory will naturally form with practice. Also, remember to check that the rearview mirror angles are properly set to avoid obstructing visibility. Another common issue is uneven distance caused by body misalignment. In such cases, straightening the wheels and reversing a few meters before making further minor adjustments is more effective. Remember, don't aim for perfection in one go—continuous adjustment while reversing is safer. With prolonged practice, you'll find this skill enhances parking safety and reduces the likelihood of wheel rim scratches.
Utilizing onboard equipment can better control the distance to the parking line during reverse parking. For instance, the most direct method is observing the rearview camera image—stop when the parking line aligns clearly with the rear wheels on the screen. If the distance is too large or small, make slight adjustments with the steering wheel. It's recommended to enable the guideline function to assist in judging the actual distance, combined with side mirror checks to avoid blind spots. Beginners can also rely on side or rear radar alerts for object detection; stop or adjust promptly when the beeps become frequent as the distance closes. During regular practice, set two reference points (e.g., tree stumps or markers) to simulate boundary lines. Align one side first, then adjust the other to ensure balance. Over time, this improves spatial awareness and reduces reliance on devices. Additionally, maintaining slow speed enhances reaction time and control precision.