Is it necessary to engage the handbrake when parking an automatic transmission car?
4 Answers
Automatic transmission cars require the handbrake to be engaged when parking. Especially when parking on slopes, engaging the handbrake can prevent the car from rolling away. Below is a detailed explanation of situations where the handbrake should be used: 1. Parking and turning off the engine with the handbrake engaged: The handbrake, also known as the parking brake, provides resistance to the car when parked to prevent it from rolling. Automatic transmissions do not require the driver to manually shift gears; the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on speed and traffic conditions. 2. Parking in neutral with the handbrake engaged: Generally, automatic transmission cars have six gear positions, from top to bottom: P, R, N, D, S, L.
I think applying the handbrake when parking is essential. Although automatic transmission vehicles can stay stationary when shifted to 'P' gear, if parked on a slope or uneven ground, the car might still slide, which could lead to accidents. Last time I parked on a steep slope without using the handbrake, the car slid slightly. Fortunately, it didn't hit anything, but since then, I've made it a habit. The parking pawl in an automatic transmission isn't designed to withstand the pressure of a steep slope, and doing this long-term might even damage the transmission system. Even when parking on flat surfaces like in the city or at highway rest stops, I always pull the handbrake to avoid accidents like being bumped by other cars. Safety should always come first; don't cut corners for convenience. These small habits have saved my life.
I always engage the handbrake when parking my car in daily driving—it's become second nature to me. Although putting an automatic transmission car in 'P' park might seem stable, many real-world factors can pose risks, such as slippery roads or inclines. Without the handbrake, the car might slowly creep, like in that scary short video I saw where a car slid into a ditch. Especially when parking in underground garages or on mountain roads, using the handbrake helps protect the braking system by reducing wear and extending component lifespan. Beginners often overlook this, thinking it's a hassle, but once it becomes a habit, it's quick and easy—and significantly boosts safety. My routine now is to engage the handbrake before turning off the engine, which gives me peace of mind.
Applying the parking brake is essential when parking, and I insist on doing this in automatic transmission vehicles. While shifting into P (Park) locks the transmission, its actual load-bearing capacity is limited. On slopes or uneven surfaces, the vehicle can easily slide, and engaging the parking brake provides dual protection to prevent hazards. Even during daily parking at places like shopping malls or roadside spots on flat ground, I never skip this step, as it safeguards the car from accidental collisions. Developing this habit is easy and beneficial for long-term vehicle use.
