Should an automatic transmission car be shifted to N before applying the handbrake and then parked?
2 Answers
For an automatic transmission car, the correct parking sequence is to shift to N first, then apply the handbrake, and finally park. Below is the correct method for parking an automatic transmission car: 1. The correct parking steps for an automatic transmission car are: After using the brake to bring the car to a complete stop, first shift the gear to N, then engage the handbrake, and only then turn off the engine. After turning off the engine, shift the gear to P. 2. If you use the sequence of shifting to P first and then turning off the engine, it can easily cause structural damage to the P gear. Over time, this can lead to insufficient locking force in the car's P gear, making it prone to rolling, especially noticeable when starting on a slope.
When parking, after driving for almost twenty years, I always follow this sequence: first press the brake, shift to N (Neutral), then engage the handbrake, and only after the car comes to a complete stop do I shift to P (Park) and turn off the engine. The reason for this is that if you shift directly to P, the transmission's locking gear may bear excessive force, especially on slopes, which can lead to accelerated wear and tear over time. Engaging the handbrake before shifting to P helps protect the transmission and reduces repair costs. I've also encountered novice drivers who often get the sequence wrong, resulting in their cars sliding in parking lots, which is quite alarming. Safety comes first—never cut corners when parking. Developing good habits can prevent many potential hazards, especially during rainy weather or on steep slopes.
