Is It Necessary to Place Stones Behind Wheels When Parking on a Slope?
2 Answers
Parking on an uphill slope generally does not require placing stones behind the wheels. Here are some tips for starting and stopping on slopes: 1. Automatic transmission vehicles: Generally, automatic transmission vehicles will not roll back in a short time when starting on a slope, but this does not mean they will never roll back. 2. Excessive slope gradient: There is a margin in the transmission system of automatic transmission vehicles, but when the slope is too steep and the gravitational component is too large, rolling back may occur. Therefore, to avoid this situation, it is best to use the handbrake to assist in starting the vehicle on a slope. 3. Rolling back phenomenon: If the vehicle has already started rolling back, or if you hear noise from the vehicle after shifting into D gear and it starts rolling back, you should immediately apply the brakes and shift into P gear, as this situation may cause serious damage to the transmission. 4. Hill start assist: Many high-end automatic transmission vehicles are now equipped with a hill start assist system, which eliminates the need for manual operation. Vehicles with an auto-hold function are even more convenient, as they automatically apply the brakes after stopping and only release them when moving forward.
I always put a rock behind my wheels when parking on a slope, and this habit might have saved my car several times. Think about it—the handbrake isn't foolproof, especially with older cars or on steep slopes. If the handbrake cable is loose or worn, the car can easily roll away. Last year, I saw my neighbor's car slide down a slope and hit a roadside tree, costing a fortune in repairs. Using a rock is much simpler—just place a sturdy one behind the rear wheels to prevent rolling. This is especially important on rainy days when slopes are slippery, and tires are more prone to skidding. Developing this habit takes just a few seconds but can prevent major trouble, while also protecting tires from wear and extending their lifespan. If it feels like too much hassle, you can also use professional wheel chocks. In short, safety comes first—don't skip this small step.
