Should You Engage the Parking Brake or Shift to P First in an Automatic Transmission?

[DiHannah]

In an automatic transmission, it is acceptable to either engage the parking brake or shift to P (Park) first when parking. Automatic transmissions are equipped with both P and N (Neutral) gears, both of which can be used when parking. The difference between P and N is as follows: when shifted into P, the locking mechanism inside the transmission locks the gears, preventing the vehicle from moving even without the parking brake engaged. When shifted into N, the locking mechanism does not engage the gears, meaning the vehicle may roll if the parking brake is not applied. Before turning off the engine, always shift into P; otherwise, the key cannot be removed. When parking on slopes, it is best to first engage the parking brake firmly and then shift into P. Alternatively, you can press the brake pedal, shift into P, keep the brake pedal depressed, and then engage the parking brake. Before shifting into P, always ensure the vehicle has come to a complete stop to avoid damaging the transmission's locking mechanism.