How to Find the Most Accurate Reference Points for Parallel Parking?
2 Answers
After entering the parallel parking area, turn the steering wheel to the right to adjust the distance between the car body and the side line to 30 centimeters. When the right one-third of the car's front aligns with the right side line, the distance is 30 centimeters. While adjusting the distance, observe the right rearview mirror. Stop the car when the front corner of the left parking space appears. Shift into reverse gear. When the front corner of the left parking space disappears from the right rearview mirror, quickly turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. Maintain a steady speed and continue reversing. When observing the right bottom corner in the left rearview mirror, quickly straighten the steering wheel. After straightening the steering wheel, watch the left rearview mirror. When the wheel is about to touch the parking line, quickly turn the steering wheel all the way to the left.
Ever since I started learning to drive, I noticed that the key to nailing parallel parking is accurately judging the rear wheel position in the side mirrors. First, pull up parallel to the parking space, keeping an arm's length from the car in front. Then shift into reverse and slowly back up while watching the right side mirror—the moment you see the entire rear end of the front car in the mirror, immediately turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. Next, glance at the left mirror; as soon as the rear wheel just crosses the edge of the parking space, straighten the wheel. At this point, the car should be mostly aligned—just remember to practice repeatedly to develop spatial awareness. Vehicle length affects reference points; with larger vehicles, wait slightly longer before aligning the wheels to avoid scraping curbs or walls. My advice: always check the height of the car behind you before parking—it's safer and saves hassle. Don't rush; mastering these details prevents paint scratches.
