How to Parallel Park?
2 Answers
First, determine if the parking space is available. If it is, drive past the space and stop your car parallel to the car in front, maintaining a horizontal distance of about 1 meter. Adjust your mirrors: keep the left mirror at normal level and lower the right mirror until you can see the right wheel, preparing for the reversing process. Then, turn the steering wheel fully to the right and start reversing. Through the adjusted right mirror, carefully observe the distance between the right rear wheel and the curb, adjusting the car's trajectory to get as close to the curb as possible while maintaining enough space to straighten the car. The distance between the wheel and the curb must be visually confirmed in the mirror—never guess. This is a crucial step in determining whether parallel parking is successful or how well the car is parked. Keep an eye on the movement of the corner of the parking space. When it disappears from view, it means the rear wheel has entered the parking area—this is the moment to turn the wheel. As the corner approaches the rear wheel, prepare to turn the steering wheel fully to the right, and when the corner and the bottom line disappear, quickly turn the steering wheel fully to the right.
I'm a novice who just started learning to drive, and I remember being extremely nervous during my first parallel parking attempt, even sweating in my palms. The steps roughly go like this: First, drive slowly to find a suitable parking spot, just slightly larger than your car's length. Once positioned, align your car parallel to the one in front, with your rear bumper matching theirs. Then, shift into reverse and slowly back up. When your side mirror aligns with the rear bumper of the front car, quickly turn the steering wheel all the way to the left—remember to maintain a slow speed without rushing. Once your car is at about a 45-degree angle into the spot, straighten the wheel and continue reversing. Finally, stop when the rear is close to hitting the car behind or the curb, then adjust slightly forward to ensure safe distances from both vehicles. The whole process takes practice, especially simulating it a few times in an empty lot to get familiar with steering angles and timing—soon it’ll feel much easier. A reminder: Before exiting, ensure the wheels are straightened and the handbrake is engaged. If the spot is tight, adjust the mirrors for better visibility.
