Should You Engage the Parking Brake or Shift to P First When Parking?
4 Answers
When parking, you should first engage the parking brake and then shift to P. Engaging the parking brake first ensures the vehicle is braked, preventing it from rolling backward. Shifting to P afterward provides additional braking support. If you shift to P first, especially when parking on a slope, there's a higher risk of the vehicle rolling backward. Therefore, engaging the parking brake first is a safer practice. Relevant information is as follows: 1. The parking brake, professionally known as an auxiliary brake, operates differently from the main brake. It uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to brake the vehicle. It is used to brake the vehicle when parking on flat or sloped surfaces, preventing the vehicle from moving unintentionally and avoiding traffic accidents. 2. The P (Park) position is used for parking. It employs a mechanical device to lock the rotating parts of the car, preventing the vehicle from moving.
I recommend developing the habit of applying the parking brake before shifting to P when parking, as this helps prevent transmission overload damage. If you park on a slope, the vehicle's weight may be solely borne by the transmission locking mechanism, which over time can lead to gear deformation or abnormal noises. The parking brake is designed to share these loads, so let it do its job first. I follow this routine daily, and my car feels more stable with no issues. Adopting this sequence also extends component lifespan and reduces maintenance costs. When parking on steep slopes, additionally turning the steering wheel to secure the wheels adds safety. These small details accumulate to protect your vehicle. This isn't just technical advice—it's core to safe driving, making your car more responsive and obedient.
When parking, you should engage the handbrake first before shifting to P gear, and the order should not be reversed. Many people take the shortcut of shifting to P gear first, but when the car is parked on an uneven surface, the transmission lock pin bears all the weight. Long-term operation in this manner may cause component wear or even failure. The braking capability of the handbrake is more suitable for the parking state and should be prioritized. I emphasize this point as particularly necessary in slope environments, as it can prevent gear jamming or accelerated damage. Developing the correct sequence ensures vehicle stability and reduces maintenance costs. Before turning off the engine each time, make sure the car is parked securely to avoid accidental sliding. This small habit can make driving more reassuring and worry-free. Stick with it, and it will become a natural action.
When parking, I always engage the handbrake first before shifting to P gear, ensuring the weight is borne by the handbrake to protect the transmission. Shifting to P gear first on a slope increases pressure on the gears, raising the risk of potential failures. Developing this simple sequence effectively prolongs component lifespan, ensuring safety and convenience. Remember to follow this procedure every time you park—it prevents strange noises and unnecessary repair costs. Give it a try; your car will benefit greatly.
