How to Park an Automatic Transmission Car?

[Charlotte]

Automatic transmission car parking steps are: 1. Press the foot brake to stop the car; 2. Shift the gear from D to N; 3. Pull the handbrake and turn off the engine; 4. Release the foot brake, but it is recommended not to turn off the power at this time to ensure that the car is completely stopped under the action of the handbrake; 5. Press the foot brake and shift the gear from N to P; 6. Release the foot brake; 7. Turn the key back, turn off the power, and pull out the key. Automatic transmission car gear description: P - Parking gear, starting gear; R - Reverse gear; N - Neutral gear, used for temporary parking; D - Drive gear, also known as forward gear; L - Low gear, used when going downhill or on long slopes; S - Sport mode, when this gear is engaged, the gear can be freely switched; OD - Overdrive gear.

[SanKing]

When parking an automatic transmission car, I place great emphasis on safety: first, decelerate completely until the car comes to a full stop, ensuring the wheels are motionless while firmly pressing the brake pedal. Then, shift the gear lever to the P (Park) position, which locks the transmission to prevent any movement. Next, engage the handbrake or electronic parking brake for additional security—this is especially crucial when parking on an incline to avoid potential rollaway accidents. Finally, turn off the engine and cut the power. Throughout this process, never rush or skip any step—I’ve seen a friend’s car slightly slide and get scratched after only shifting to P without engaging the handbrake on a slope. Make it a habit to check the handbrake every time after parking, particularly at night or during rain/snow when roads are slippery, as this can prevent many mishaps. Safe driving lies in the details. After years of driving, I still adhere to this routine—it’s lifesaving and reassuring.

[EthanLee]

When I was a newbie, I often forgot things while parking. Once, on a slope in my neighborhood, I only shifted to P without engaging the handbrake. After getting out, the car rolled slightly and almost hit the wall—a heart-stopping lesson! Now I’ve learned better: after stopping an automatic car, keep the brake pedal pressed, shift to P to stabilize, then pull the handbrake to confirm the car is firmly stationary, and finally turn off the ignition. Practicing these simple steps a few times turns them into muscle memory, so you’ll never fear forgetting again. For newbie friends, I suggest finding an open space to simulate parking a few times to familiarize yourself with each step. Remember, the handbrake is the backup safety, and P is the key lock—don’t rush or cut corners.

[DelAyla]

I've got the hang of parking an automatic car in daily driving: slow down to a complete stop, press the brake, shift to P position, engage the handbrake or electronic brake, turn off the engine, and walk away. These steps are done quickly, whether on flat roads or slopes; on steeper slopes, just tighten the handbrake for extra security. This routine becomes second nature with practice—don't skip steps to avoid risks. I park frequently in the city, and this method ensures it's done quickly and safely.