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

[VanHadley]

The correct parking method is to shift to neutral first and then engage the handbrake, which is the most proper procedure for parking and turning off the engine. Hold down the car's brake pedal until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Place the manual gear lever in the neutral position. Pull up the vehicle's handbrake to prevent it from sliding on the road. Turn the car key to the OFF position, which shuts off the engine and the vehicle's power supply. At this point, the dashboard lights will go out, indicating that the vehicle's power is completely off. The professional term for the handbrake is auxiliary brake, and its principle differs from that of the main brake. It uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to stop the car. Prolonged use of the handbrake can cause plastic deformation of the steel cable, which is irreversible. Over time, this reduces its effectiveness and increases the handbrake's travel distance. The handbrake also has a return spring. When the handbrake is engaged, the spring stretches; when released, it returns to its original length. Long-term use of the handbrake can cause the spring to deform accordingly.

[DeReid]

Hi, I've been driving for over a decade, and I always pull the handbrake tight before shifting to neutral or P gear when parking, especially on slopes. Why is this order so important? Because if you shift to neutral first, the car might roll slightly, creating a hazard or damaging the transmission gears. I remember that time when I was waiting at a red light on a steep city slope—I didn't pull the handbrake and just shifted to neutral, causing the car to roll back and hit the front bumper of the vehicle behind me. The repair cost me quite a bit. Since then, I've developed a good habit: brake to a complete stop, pull the handbrake to secure the wheels, and only then shift gears. The same applies to automatic cars—after stopping in D gear, pull the handbrake first before shifting to P gear to protect the drivetrain. After adopting these small details, my car has remained stable, and I feel much more at ease driving out for trips.

[Carole]

As a novice driver, I often got confused when first learning to drive, especially about whether to engage the handbrake or shift to neutral first when parking. After consulting my driving instructor, I learned the correct sequence: first firmly press the brake pedal, then engage the handbrake to secure the car, and finally shift to neutral or into P mode. He explained that shifting directly into P mode in an automatic transmission car can put pressure on the gears, leading to wear, while shifting to neutral too early in a manual transmission car might cause the vehicle to roll. I tried it myself on flat ground—shifting without engaging the handbrake—and the car shook alarmingly, nearly hitting a roadside flower bed. Now, I always follow the correct sequence, which feels much safer. Learning to drive is like this—small rules can’t be overlooked, especially for beginners who need to slowly develop good habits. After parking, don’t forget to check your surroundings to ensure it’s safe before getting out.

[OJason]

As a car enthusiast, I believe the parking sequence is crucial: applying the handbrake before shifting to neutral protects mechanical components. Once the car is stationary, immediately engaging the handbrake locks the rear wheels, preventing any movement. Then shifting to neutral releases the engine load, avoiding stress on the transmission. For automatic cars, it's better to stop in D, apply the handbrake, and then shift to P; otherwise, gear jamming can cause long-term wear. I've discussed this issue in the club, and many friends have had to repair their cars due to incorrect sequences. In daily driving, developing this habit is simple and efficient, extending your beloved car's lifespan.

[LaIsabelle]

Safe driving is my principle. When parking, you must first engage the handbrake before shifting to neutral. This prevents the vehicle from sliding and avoids collision risks. Whether it's a manual or automatic transmission, the sequence is the same: press the brake, engage the handbrake, and finally operate the gearshift. Be extra careful on slopes, as shifting to neutral first can lead to a rollaway accident. I've adhered to this practice for years, and my vehicle has remained trouble-free. Remember these small steps for a more worry-free driving experience.