How to Park with an Automatic Transmission and Electronic Handbrake?
3 Answers
Here are the correct steps for parking with an automatic transmission and electronic handbrake: 1. Press the foot brake to bring the car to a complete stop. 2. Shift the gear from D (Drive) to N (Neutral). 3. Engage the electronic handbrake and turn off the engine. 4. Release the foot brake, but do not turn off the power. 5. Press the foot brake again and shift the gear from N (Neutral) to P (Park). 6. Release the foot brake and turn the key back. 7. Turn off the power and remove the key. Additional information about the electronic handbrake: 1. The electronic handbrake is a technology that uses electronic control to achieve parking brake function. 2. Its working principle is the same as that of a mechanical handbrake, both relying on friction between the brake disc and brake pads to achieve parking brake control.
I've been driving automatic transmission cars for over a decade, and my proper parking sequence is as follows: First, gradually reduce the speed and come to a complete stop with the car body absolutely still. Then shift to P (Park) gear, which locks the transmission to prevent vehicle movement. Next, press the electronic parking brake button (usually marked with a hand icon on the center console or near the armrest) until you hear a "click" sound or see a red light indicator on the dashboard confirming the parking brake is engaged. Finally, release the foot brake pedal and turn off the engine or press the ignition button. This sequence protects the transmission from stress damage, especially important when parking on slopes where releasing the electronic parking brake before applying it might cause wheel slippage. Developing this habit significantly extends vehicle lifespan, and I often advise friends to try it to see the difference.
Proper parking sequence ensures safety: First, I slow down and come to a complete stop, ensuring the vehicle is stationary before proceeding. Engage the P (Park) gear to lock the transmission system, preventing any risk of rolling. Then, press the electronic parking brake button—usually a touch-sensitive switch—where an illuminated light indicates activation. After that, release the foot brake and turn off the engine. The electronic parking brake is intelligently designed, using electronic signals to control the braking system to clamp the wheels, offering a more effortless and reliable solution compared to traditional mechanical handbrakes. When parking on slopes, extra caution is taken by engaging P gear before applying the handbrake to prevent gravity from damaging components. I always pay attention to this while driving to minimize accidents. Regular maintenance checks on the handbrake functionality are also essential.