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

[Gary]

For manual transmission vehicles, engage the handbrake first and then shift to neutral when parking. For automatic transmission vehicles, it is generally recommended to engage the handbrake first and then shift to Park (P) 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 can reduce its effectiveness and increase the handbrake's 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. Parking Procedure: After the vehicle comes to a complete stop, engage the handbrake, shift to neutral, release the clutch, then release the brake and turn off the turn signal, shut off the engine, press the clutch, and shift into first gear. Engaging the handbrake secures the vehicle. Shifting to neutral ensures the vehicle won't move or stall when the engine is running. Releasing the clutch first prevents the vehicle from moving if the clutch is released without shifting to neutral, especially when the handbrake isn't engaged and the brake pedal isn't pressed. Shifting into first gear after turning off the engine prevents the vehicle from moving in case the handbrake cable fails or the slope is too steep, as the first gear's teeth will lock the vehicle in place.