Should You Engage the Handbrake or Shift to Neutral First When Exiting the Car?

[LeGavin]

When exiting the car, you should first engage the handbrake and then shift to neutral. Generally, it is recommended to engage the handbrake before shifting to P (Park) to minimize damage to the vehicle and extend its lifespan. Important Notes: Prolonged use of the handbrake can cause the steel cable to undergo plastic deformation. Since this deformation is irreversible, long-term use may reduce the handbrake's effectiveness and increase its travel distance. The handbrake system also includes a return spring. When the handbrake is engaged, the spring stretches; when released, it returns to its original length. Over time, the spring may also deform due to prolonged use. Parking Procedure Sequence: After the car comes to a complete stop, first engage the handbrake, then shift to neutral, release the clutch, and finally release the brake pedal, turn off the turn signal, shut off the engine, depress the clutch, and shift into first gear. Engaging the handbrake secures the car in place. Shifting to neutral ensures the car won't move or stall when the engine is started. Releasing the clutch first prevents the car from moving if the clutch is released without shifting to neutral, especially if the handbrake isn't engaged or the brake pedal isn't pressed. After shutting off the engine, shifting into first gear acts as an additional safety measure to prevent the car from moving in case the handbrake fails or the slope is too steep, as the gear will lock the car in place.

[SilasRose]

I've been driving for decades, and every time I park, I shift to neutral before applying the handbrake. The reason is simple: shifting to neutral disengages the power, allowing the vehicle to stabilize, and then applying the handbrake secures the wheels to prevent rolling. Especially when parking on a slope, if you don't shift to neutral before applying the handbrake, the drivetrain may endure excessive stress, which can easily lead to rolling or damage the transmission. I remember last year when I parked on a steep slope, I was in a hurry and only applied the handbrake without shifting to neutral, and the car moved slightly—it was quite a scare. Developing this habit isn't just for safety; it also extends the vehicle's lifespan. For automatic transmission cars, the sequence is similar: first shift to P (Park), then apply the handbrake. Don't underestimate this small step—it can prevent accidents.

[AdelynFitz]

As an experienced driver, I always shift to neutral before applying the parking brake when stopping. This sequence minimizes risks such as vehicle slippage or sudden accidents. Make sure the car is completely stopped before shifting to neutral, especially for manual transmission vehicles. Failing to do this properly can lead to serious accidents on slopes. I've seen novice drivers cause rear-end collisions due to incorrect procedures - simply adjusting the sequence could prevent this. Extending this to daily habits, always check the dashboard after parking to ensure all lights are off before turning off the engine and exiting the vehicle. Safety isn't just theory - it's guaranteed by practical actions, especially crucial during rainy or snowy days when roads are slippery. Proper operations make driving more secure.

[OReese]

When I first started learning to drive, I was also confused about the sequence. Later, I realized that it's best to shift into neutral before applying the handbrake when parking. This procedure ensures the car remains stationary and prevents accidental rolling. Shifting into neutral disengages the power connection, and then the handbrake secures the wheels—simple and effective. Extra caution is needed when parking on slopes, as getting the sequence wrong could lead to the car rolling. For example, when parking on a slope in the neighborhood, I always double-check before leaving. It's even simpler with automatic transmission cars—just shift into P (Park) and then apply the handbrake. Developing good habits is crucial—safety is no small matter.