How to Park an Automatic Car Without a Handbrake?

[Earl]

Shift the gear from D to N and engage the handbrake. Press the foot brake to stop the car, then shift the gear from D to N. Without pressing the foot brake, press the start button twice to initiate the car's computer system self-check, for at least 6 seconds or more.

[AmyFitz]

I've been driving for decades and often encountered automatic cars without handbrakes. The trick to parking is to find as level a spot as possible, step on the brake, shift to P gear, and turn off the engine—this locks the transmission, and on flat ground, it basically won't roll. But if parking on a slope, P gear might not be strong enough, so I turn the steering wheel toward the top of the slope to let the wheels press against the curb for extra resistance. Keep a wheel chock or brick in the car and place it behind the wheels when parking on a slope to prevent sliding. Remember not to park on steep slopes for long, especially in strong winds or rain, as accidents are more likely. Always check the parking spot for safety before driving—developing good habits is key, since without a handbrake, you've got to be extra careful.