Should You Engage the Handbrake or Neutral First When Parking?

[VonMaya]

The correct parking procedure for an automatic transmission vehicle should be: press the brake → shift into gear → engage the handbrake → turn off the engine → shift into parking gear. In other words, after stopping, engage the handbrake first before shifting into neutral. Below is relevant information: 1. Auxiliary Brake: The professional term for the handbrake is the auxiliary brake. Unlike the main braking system, it uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to apply braking force to the vehicle. Prolonged use of the handbrake can cause the steel cable to undergo plastic deformation. Since this deformation is irreversible, long-term use will reduce its effectiveness and increase the handbrake's travel distance. 2. Neutral Gear: Neutral gear typically refers to the state where the vehicle's gear lever is not engaged in any forward or reverse gear, completely disconnecting the transmission from the drive wheels. For manual transmissions, the neutral position is in the middle, while for automatic transmissions, it is marked with an "N".

[FernandoRose]

Safety comes first when parking, and I always believe the handbrake should be engaged first. As an experienced driver who has driven many cars, this sequence is crucial, especially on slopes. If you shift to neutral first, the vehicle isn’t fully secured and may slide instantly, potentially hitting something and causing an accident or damage. For manual transmission cars, once in neutral, the handbrake is the only thing holding the car; even automatic transmission cars require caution—though the P (Park) gear has a locking function, without the handbrake, the gears may bear the impact, leading to long-term wear on the transmission. My advice is to stop the car completely, keep your foot on the brake, firmly engage the handbrake, and confirm the car is stationary before shifting to neutral or P gear. This habit prevents accidents, especially in slippery conditions like rain or crowded parking lots. Don’t underestimate it—one wrong move can be dangerous. Develop this routine to protect both yourself and your car.

[NadiaFitz]

Hi, as an enthusiast who enjoys studying car structures, I believe it's more reasonable to shift into neutral when parking. The reason is simple: neutral disconnects the vehicle's power, allowing the handbrake to bear the parking force, which protects the transmission and drivetrain. For automatic cars, shifting directly into P (Park) might cause the locking pin to engage with moving gears, leading to metal grinding noises or permanent damage. Manual transmissions are similar—with the gear in neutral, the handbrake locks the rear wheels more smoothly. I once watched a mechanic demonstrate that the correct sequence is neutral, handbrake, then P (Park) to reduce impact and extend lifespan. This is even more noticeable on slopes, as it prevents slight vehicle movement from damaging parts. Once you develop this habit, it’s not only safer but also saves money and keeps the car in better condition.

[MacAugust]

When parking, I prefer using the handbrake first—simple and effective. Come to a complete stop by pressing the brake pedal, then immediately engage the handbrake to secure the vehicle before shifting to neutral. For automatic transmissions, shift to P afterward; for manual transmissions, just turn off the engine and leave. This method is quick and safe, preventing the car from rolling, especially helpful for beginners to remember and apply. It's straightforward and avoids accidents caused by incorrect sequences.