How to Use the Extension Line for Steering When Reversing into a Parking Space?
4 Answers
First, pull the car to an appropriate position, shift into reverse gear, release the clutch, and maintain a slow speed while observing from the driver's perspective. When the corner of the parking space appears in the right rearview mirror, pay attention to the distance between the rear wheel and the corner of the space. Look at the left rearview mirror, and when the horizontal yellow line crosses the lower edge of the left rearview mirror and is completely obscured, press the brake and clutch.
Using the extended line as a reference when reversing into a parking space is a practical technique. The extended line refers to the imaginary extension of the parking space boundary forward. With over a decade of driving experience, I prefer starting with a right-side reverse. Slowly back up while watching the right-side rearview mirror. The moment the center of the rear wheel aligns with the extended line, quickly turn the steering wheel fully to the right, allowing the rear of the car to smoothly enter the parking space. Timing is crucial here—too early and you might hit the left pillar, too late and the rear won't align properly, requiring adjustments. Practice a few times to get familiar with it, and try in an empty parking lot first to reduce stress. Remember to keep the speed slow and stay patient. For beginners, it's best to have a friend guide you from outside to ensure safety and avoid scraping nearby cars.
As an experienced driver, I always rely on the extension line when backing into a parking space. Simply put, while reversing, keep a close eye on the rearview mirror, and when the rear wheel aligns with that extension line, decisively turn the steering wheel—left for left-side parking, right for right-side. In practical application, I've found that the vehicle's length affects the precise point; for example, with SUVs requiring a larger angle, you need to turn the wheel a few seconds earlier. A common mistake is turning the wheel too sharply, causing the car body to tilt. In such cases, don't panic—just adjust the steering slightly and correct it. The principle of the extension line is based on the vehicle's turning trajectory. Familiarizing yourself with your own garage environment during practice can save time and effort, and always maintain focus on blind spot areas for safe driving.
When I first learned reverse parking, the extension line was a great help. The steps are: engage reverse gear and slowly back up, observe the position of the extension line through the side mirror, and turn the steering wheel immediately once the rear wheel cover touches the line. The key is to act steadily and quickly without hesitation to disrupt the rhythm. As a beginner, I often turned too late, leading to repeated adjustments. I recommend practicing in the community parking lot during off-peak hours to gradually improve your sense of direction and avoid the tension caused by mistakes. Although this trick is simple, combining it with daily driving habits can enhance overall parking efficiency.
