Should You Engage the Parking Brake or Shift to P First When Parking an Automatic Transmission Car?
3 Answers
When parking an automatic transmission car, you should engage the parking brake first. Below is detailed information about automotive braking: 1. Overview: Braking, also known as deceleration, refers to the action of stopping or reducing the speed of moving locomotives, vehicles, other transportation tools, or machinery. The general principle of braking involves fixing a wheel or disc on the machine's high-speed shaft and installing corresponding brake shoes, bands, or discs on the machine base. An external force is then applied to generate braking torque. 2. Brake Pads: Automotive brake pads, also known as brake linings, are friction materials fixed to the brake drums or discs that rotate with the wheels. The friction linings and blocks within them withstand external pressure to create friction, thereby achieving the purpose of vehicle deceleration.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I always engage the parking brake before shifting into P gear when parking, as this better protects the transmission. When parking on slopes, such as hills or in underground garages, shifting into P gear first means the vehicle's entire weight rests on the transmission's locking gear, which can lead to wear or deformation over time, potentially causing jamming or squeaking noises upon next startup. Conversely, applying the parking brake first allows the braking system to bear the vehicle's stopping force, making it safer to then shift into P gear. I've had a few instances where I forgot the sequence and struggled to shift gears when starting on a slope, but developing this habit solved the issue. For regular parking, I also recommend checking if the wheels are straightened to avoid prolonged parking on uneven surfaces, which helps extend brake life. Adopting this good habit ensures smoother operation of your car's critical components.
When I first learned to drive, I used to struggle with the parking sequence. Now I understand that pulling the handbrake first before shifting into P is the better choice. If parked on a slope, like the steep hill in front of my house, engaging the handbrake first firmly locks the tires to prevent the car from rolling, and then shifting into P won't add extra stress to the transmission. Doing it the other way around might damage the gears, leading to gear stiffness or increased noise the next time you drive. On flat ground, the sequence matters less, but I still stick to the same routine to avoid mistakes in stressful moments. Asking car-savvy friends around, they all say this trick saves repair costs. Don't forget to close the windows and turn off the engine after parking—it's more eco-friendly and cost-effective. Remembering this simple step makes driving much more reassuring.
