Should an automatic transmission car be parked by shifting to P gear first or by pulling the handbrake first?
2 Answers
For an automatic transmission car, it is safer to pull the handbrake first when parking, achieving the braking effect of the braking system, and then shift to P gear to lock the transmission shaft. The correct method for parking an automatic transmission car is: 1. Press the brake pedal to slow down and stop; 2. After coming to a complete stop, shift into N gear; 3. Tighten the handbrake; 4. Release the foot brake and confirm the vehicle is stationary; 5. Press the foot brake again and shift into P gear; 6. Turn off the engine. The correct method for starting an automatic transmission car is: 1. Connect the power supply, then start the car; 2. After ignition, press the brake pedal, shift into D gear, release the handbrake, and gently press the accelerator to start; 3. After starting, accelerate appropriately according to road conditions.
When parking, I prefer to engage the handbrake first before shifting to P gear, as this helps protect the transmission from unnecessary strain. Especially on slopes, if you shift to P gear before pulling the handbrake, the car might slightly move due to gravity, causing the transmission gears to bear extra pressure, which can lead to wear and tear over time. Having driven an automatic car for ten years, I’ve maintained this habit, and my transmission has always run smoothly without any unusual noises or malfunctions. On flat surfaces in the city, the impact is minimal, but in underground parking lots or mountainous roads, this small step makes a big difference. New drivers can try this method—engaging the handbrake first ensures stability, safety, and saves on repair costs.
