Should an automatic car be shifted to P gear first or the handbrake pulled first?

[SanEden]

When parking an automatic car, it is acceptable to either pull the handbrake first or shift to P gear first. Below is relevant information about parking an automatic car: 1. If parking on flat ground, whether you pull the handbrake first or shift to P gear first will not cause damage to the vehicle's transmission. This mainly depends on personal parking habits. 2. If parking on a steep slope, you can use the method of stepping on the brake, shifting gears, pulling the handbrake, turning off the engine, and then shifting to P gear, which has less impact on the transmission. 3. An automatic transmission means the driver does not need to shift gears manually; the vehicle will automatically select the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions. 4. Generally, automatic cars have six gear positions, from top to bottom: P, R, N, D, S, L.

[OJudah]

I always remember to engage the parking brake first before shifting into Park (P), especially on slopes or uneven surfaces. Imagine parking on an inclined parking lot where the vehicle has its own weight. If you shift into Park first, the entire weight is directly borne by the transmission, which over time could lead to internal gear wear or damage. I’ve forgotten the sequence a few times on a slope, and afterward, the transmission made strange clicking noises. When I took it to the repair shop, I learned it was due to excessive load. This isn’t something that can be explained with just technical terms—it’s practical experience that taught me engaging the parking brake is like locking the wheels with a brake handle, distributing the weight evenly and protecting core components. After forming this habit, driving feels more secure, and it saves unnecessary repair costs.

[VonAurora]

After driving for so many years, I've developed the habit of always engaging the parking brake before shifting to P. I remember last winter when I parked on a slope, I hastily shifted to P and got out of the car, causing the vehicle to slide slightly—luckily, nothing serious happened. Later, a friend reminded me that applying the parking brake before the transmission locks can help distribute the vehicle's force and prevent emergencies. It might not be noticeable on flat roads, but it's especially important on complex terrain or when fully loaded, such as with heavier SUVs. This doesn't require any complex tools—a simple action can extend the car's lifespan and reduce repair costs. I've found that combining this with disabling the auto-start function is also relevant, but the core is to develop this sequence—safety first.

[IsabelaFitz]

As an average driver, I prioritize protecting my vehicle. Every time I park, I engage the handbrake first and then shift into P gear to avoid impacting the transmission system. Short distances may have minimal effects, but if you frequently drive on slopes or have a fully loaded trunk, the transmission lock bears all the pressure and will wear out faster. Developing this simple and effective sequence helps with long-term usage.